Recommendations for chain tensioner for SS conversion?
 

Picked up a CF road frame for $50 a little while back and I think I just want to keep things simple and do an SS conversion on it. I've got most of the bits, just need a crank and bars/brake levers..

I do need a chain tensioner though since the dropouts have zero adjustability. I know of a few brands that make one but honestly, I don't know crap about them.

Who's got a good one that isn't a POS? I don't mind shelling out for a good part..

Buy a terrible dérailleur and tighten the limiter screws so it stays in once place.

Get an eccentric hub or BB. They make cleaner setups than a tensioner IMO.

I can't help but ask why.

Eccentric BB solution is best. I was looking into this when I wanted to build a SS MTB and most tensioners had crap reviews. The DMR is solid but it isn't spring loaded and the guide wheel doesn't take a 1/8" chain unless you shave it.

I have a SS MTB with an eccentric bottom bracket, and I think that this is the way to go. Looks clean and the adjustability is easy enough. As to why, why not?

I like the derailleur idea. But buy? There are thousands of junk derailleurs out there! Well perhaps $3 used. For 1/8" chain, take the screws for the idler pulleys and the inside set screw to an Ace or True Value hardware store and pick up screws a half cm longer and a few washers for the pulleys and a screw long enough to set the inside adjust to the cog. Reassemble with the new screw and enough washers on each side to clear the chain. Tighten the new set screw to align the derailleur. Done.

Ben

Hmm.. Well i guess i don't really know what to do. I already have a BB so I might just want to stick with a tensioner initially..

Any brands i should check out? I know surly has something along with DMR -- Sounds like they are all about the same quality wise.

I have used this on a mtb bike for around 7-9 years with zero problems. I also have one on a Trek road bike I converted a couple of years ago, again no problems.

Forté Single-Speed Conversion Kit

I'm using a Surly singleator tensioner on my mountain bike and so far I'd had no problems. Might have to try the eccentric bb in the future though.

Thanks for all the help everyone -- Just bit the bullet and tried the Fortè kit since it was on sale for $25!