I was hoping someone could clear some things up for me. If I understand it correctly, Xootrs are aluminium and only come in one configuration, whereas Swifts are steel can be build up to your own specs (e.g. singlespeed etc..) I am right so far?

Basically I would like a singlespeed aluminium Xootr/Swift, but to do this i would need to buy the Xootr with all the gears and convert it myself? Does anyone know if i can buy an alu singlespeed direct from a shop?

Thanks

Both sources of custom Swifts are out of the steel frames (for now..) So you're in luck - all you can get is alu these days ;-)

Your best bet is contacting Peter Reich at 1-800-884-5541 (or check other contact details here). I'm sure he'd be happy to build you a singlespeed Swift, though he's a busy man and it will probably take 4-6 weeks.

I bought a single-speed rear wheel from Peter a few months back for less than $60. It's essentially a converted stock rear wheel with spacers and a single cog, and a solid axle with track nuts.

So james_swift....

• Do you need a chain tensioner?
• Is it fairly easy to swap back and forth between single and derailleur? That is, for those of us who don't routinely put drop bars on bikes by ourselves

For track ends, you'll probably want a hub gear. Chain tensioners are also a good idea.

Thanks for your quick replies, I'll send Peter an email. Any idea how much a singlespeed version costs?

No chain tensioner needed, so long as you shorten the chain.

Swapping setups is not that difficult, if you have 2 rear wheels (one single, and the other stock). It's just a matter of having a correct-length chain, reinstalling your derailleur hanger and derailleur, cable and shifter, and your rear wheel.