I am interested in converting my mid-70's 10 speed french bike to a single speed. Not sure where to start. Bottom bracket has been over hauled with new bearing and I have new aluminum wheels installed last year. Not sure about gearing and if I can purchase a freewheel with one cog to fit. Also will I have to re-dish the rear wheel?

Tommy K

Many people aim for 70 gear inches, and from what I've found, inexpensive 16-tooth freewheels are the most readily available, so perhaps 42x16.

freewheels should be easy to find. acs claw is like 18 dollars...yeah you should probably redish the wheel if you can. i think most lbs charge 35 bucks or so? ive only had it done one time.

Only have a shop redish it if you have troubles with dropping the chain or you can do it yourself. Going SS should be cheap and easy, don't pay a shop to give you a beater. Build your own beater!

Redishing is really easy as long as the wheel is true and costs all of $5 in a spoke wrench. Loosen one side 1/4 turn, tighten the opposite side 1/4 turn. Rinse, repeat until the rim is centered properly.

Plus, sometimes you can just put a spacer under the freewheel to get the proper chain-line without re-dishing. That worked for me!

Rick / OCRR