which freewheel cog?
 

Somewhat new to cycling so im not sure what is good and what isnt. I realize everyone will say White Ind. ... But I'm not paying that much for a freewheel. I think I've narrowed it down to the Shimano MX30 or a Sturmey Archer. Thoughts?

Also, what's a good ratio to go with? Right now its a 48x18.. Mostly flat riding too

What performance criteria are you looking for in your inexpensive single-speed freewheel?

Can't offer much advice on the freewheel... I currently have an ACS crossfire that I don't really like (too much play before engagement) on one bike and a cheapo Dicta (better) on the other. Had a Shimano on a bike a few years ago and never gave my freewheel much thought then, maybe that's the best reason to go with one of those.

As for the ratio, that's ultimately going to be whatever works best for you. Personally, I'm running 48x18 now and like it. I can still get up to a decent speed and hills are easy enough.

I'm a casual/occasional rider. Just want something that isn't super cheap and will last a while. Made a mistake on my ratio too.. it's 47x18.. it's got an ACS Crossfire on there right now, but I'll probably put that on another bike since its FW is shot and replace my main SS FW. Been reading around online the past couple weeks and saw the SA was better quality than the Shimano... just wanted others opinions

Another poster and I asked similar questions this last week and were steered toward the Excess Components freewheel (Excessbmx.com). I just ordered one for $20 from Retrogression. I was willing to spend way more for a WI or Halo Clickster on my first SS, but at this price I figured why not give it a shot. On paper it looks good. Mine was shipped today so I haven't actually used it though.

http://www.bikeforums.net/singlespee...mer-newbs.html

http://www.bikeforums.net/singlespee...reewheels.html

I ordered one of those EC free wheels from retro-gression.... looks good and the price is perfect

I haven't heard of the EC freewheel you bought, but it looks ok and price is good, so it's worth a shot.

I've personally always gone with the Shimano MX30, although it does have some downsides. Out of the box, it's fantastic, but it does become a little noisy somewhat quickly. It develops a clicking sound with every revolution at certain cadences. The one I'm currently using has even started to slip (the pawls skip) when I'm starting from a stop and putting a lot of torque into the pedals...no bueno.

On the upside, the MX30 is fully serviceable if you're somewhat handy. I have several that I switch in and out between seasons, so no current need to ever buy a new one.

As far as your gear ratio goes, I'd recommend taking a road bike out for a spin (if you have one) to find a ratio that you feels works best for your needs. Once you've found one that works, use Sheldon Brown's gain ratio calculator to see what freewheel size that translates into for your size chainring (because a road bike will almost certainly have a different size chainring than your single speed). Hope that helps.

Sheldon Brown's Bicycle Gear Calculator

Got the Excess free wheel in today.. it's definitely louder than the crossfire, but there is no wobble. Seems well constructed. . Only took it for a spin around the block since we're in the hundreds today, feels good.. went from an 18 tooth to a 17.. 47x17 now

Excess is solid, and can't beat the price.