Typical (or recommended) chainring & sprocket size for Single Speed (not fixie)
12-18-06, 04:23 PM
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Typical (or recommended) chainring & sprocket size for Single Speed (not fixie)
Been kicking around the idea of getting a single-speed (not a fixie) for my commuting bike, just wondering what the typical # of teeth on the chainring & sprocket are for these bikes?
12-18-06, 05:04 PM
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Originally Posted by Bob Ross
Been kicking around the idea of getting a single-speed (not a fixie) for my commuting bike, just wondering what the typical # of teeth on the chainring & sprocket are for these bikes?
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12-18-06, 05:27 PM
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If you want a ratio that works for a typical rider on typical terrain, build a multispeed.
If you want a ratio that works for you and your commute route, then only you can decide based on what works for you.
Al
If you want a ratio that works for you and your commute route, then only you can decide based on what works for you.
Al
12-18-06, 05:45 PM
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42x16 for teh win, although I could honestly use a 43 or 44 these days...
12-18-06, 05:55 PM
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It really depends on your condition and the terrain you ride in. If you have a geared bike, you can try a few combinations. Also, what speed do you expect to ride at and at what cadence? I started out with 40/16 on 700c wheels in a rather flat area with few hills using a light bike with few accessories (no fenders etc). Soon got tired of spinning out, and now riding 44/16 which for me in this terrain is great - most rides I average 18mph, and can ride as fast a 25 or 26 b4 spinning out.
12-18-06, 06:19 PM
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What they said. Find a gear on a multi-speed you can stay in for a month without shifting and then work out something equal for the single.
12-18-06, 07:54 PM
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The multigear advice sounds good to me. My SS is at 52x17, matching what I was riding my geared bike at before I went SS.
12-18-06, 08:44 PM
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You'll also need to consider what cranks you'll be using. If you're using a road crank with 130bcd, you can find just about any sized chainring from 34t to 53t. Just make sure that the chainring will clear the chainstays (Commuter-style frames are often designed for a triple crank and anything bigger than about 42t won't clear the chainstay if you are trying to get a 42mm chainline). Also keep in mind that standard freewheels aren't available below 16t.
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