GAPavedTrailRdr

Hi,

I have a Huffy Avenue 6-speed that I'd like to eventually work up to commuting and local errands. It will be locked up on bike racks a lot, so I like the idea of modifying a beater. There are steep grades everywhere though, and the six speed drive train is killing me. I understand that due to the width of the rear fork, I need to stick with a six speed cassette, but I should be able to upgrade the crankset to a triple, right? The crankset appears to be interchangeable and is not welded directly to the seat tube. And since the triple would incorporate smaller chain rings, I'm thinking those additional gears would directly apply to hill climbing, is that correct? Anybody have any experience and insights on doing this?

Thanks,
GAPavedTrailRdr

Bill Kapaun

I'd look for a different bike on Craigslist etc.
I flip bikes and I simply won't mess with a Huffy, even if someone tries to give me one.
Besides being heavy, the brakes, shifters etc. just don't work well, being the lowest end parts I've seen.
You are far better off looking for a usable "project bike".

BTW, that bike won't have a cassette, but a freewheel.
No cranksets are "welded" to the seat tube.

bikemig 

+ 1. Find a decent quality used vintage mountain bike (one with a rigid fork) on craigslist. They're relatively inexpensive and make fine commuters as they have stout wheels. You'll need to ditch the knobby tires for slicks though. You won't have an issue with gearing since these come with a triple.

tjkoko

+1 to the previous post.

GAPavedTrailRdr

Ok, sounds like a consensus. I'll start looking at Craigslist. Thanks for the feedback!

bicyclridr4life

Yes, you can upgrade to a triple crank. You can go to a 7 speed in back, in which case, you may want to check out the second hand stores for a donor bike, since you will probably have to change the rear shifter and possibly the derailleur. You wil also have to replace the front shifter if you upgrade to a triple.
What the "Get a better bike" crowd seem to be over looking, is a Huffy is less likely to be stolen, you are not racing, so the Huffy fits your needs for a commute/errand bike.