How much does it cost to get a Single Speed's gear changed at a bike shop
08-11-14, 03:11 AM
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How much does it cost to get a Single Speed's gear changed at a bike shop
Biking n00b here, planning to replace my 34-pound 18-speed folding bike with a lighter (around 25 lbs) CHEAP single speed bicycle in hopes of increasing efficiency. My rationale is that even though my route is moderately sloped, I noticed that I never changed gears and was content at gears 2 and 6 during the entire commute.
The problem is that the single speed's "gear inches" might be slightly too big for my commute. So I might want to switch the 46/16 to become something like 46/17 or 46/18 as soon as I receive the new single-speed bike. How much does it cost for a bike shop to do that? Is it effortless? Does it require expensive parts?
The problem is that the single speed's "gear inches" might be slightly too big for my commute. So I might want to switch the 46/16 to become something like 46/17 or 46/18 as soon as I receive the new single-speed bike. How much does it cost for a bike shop to do that? Is it effortless? Does it require expensive parts?
08-11-14, 03:43 AM
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Biking n00b here, planning to replace my 34-pound 18-speed folding bike with a lighter (around 25 lbs) CHEAP single speed bicycle in hopes of increasing efficiency. My rationale is that even though my route is moderately sloped, I noticed that I never changed gears and was content at gears 2 and 6 during the entire commute.
The problem is that the single speed's "gear inches" might be slightly too big for my commute. So I might want to switch the 46/16 to become something like 46/17 or 46/18 as soon as I receive the new single-speed bike. How much does it cost for a bike shop to do that? Is it effortless? Does it require expensive parts?
The problem is that the single speed's "gear inches" might be slightly too big for my commute. So I might want to switch the 46/16 to become something like 46/17 or 46/18 as soon as I receive the new single-speed bike. How much does it cost for a bike shop to do that? Is it effortless? Does it require expensive parts?
08-11-14, 04:46 AM
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Swapping a single cog is simple. Some are held with a spring clip and a flat blade screwdriver will pop it off. Others need a freewheel tool I think. Either way, a couple of minutes.
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08-11-14, 05:00 AM
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you could buy the tools for what the shop might charge you.
08-11-14, 06:07 AM
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Maybe. For some reason ss freewheel tools are a little more than say 7sp shimano. $9-16. For that. 12" adjustable wrench $10-20. If you wanna do a lot of these get a bench vise.
If you have a notch less freewheel you need a pin spanner (I've used a nail and hammer) and a large pipe wrench or bench vise.
If you have a notch less freewheel you need a pin spanner (I've used a nail and hammer) and a large pipe wrench or bench vise.
08-11-14, 11:55 AM
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My LBS typically wouldn't charge for the swap if you a) bought the replacement from them, b) brought in the wheel (already removed from the bike) and c) came in at a non-busy time. Obviously if the old freewheel proves labor intensive to remove then all bets are off. Now, bring in a freewheel you bought online and ask for a swap and they'll likely charge you more than the cost of the freewheel.
08-11-14, 12:32 PM
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Crazy idea here, but have you thought to call the bike shop you plan to take it to?
08-11-14, 01:23 PM
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08-11-14, 01:31 PM
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There's also time involved. I can do most things myself in the time it would take to drive to the shop. Then you might have to wait or drop it off, drive home, drive back later ...
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08-11-14, 02:21 PM
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just changed my freewheel about an hour ago. it took about 15 minutes. i had the ACS Crossfire (freewheel) removal tool already ($15-20)and the freewheel ($20-25) and the Big-Effing-Pipe that i use to help facilitate the job. 
i've used both tools plenty.
i've used both tools plenty.
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