Single Speed - what gears to start with

[Paul Ruinaard]

So as a SS Noob, not that fit, but wnating to engage the fun side of MTB, I have my new SS ready.

 

The question I have is: on a 26 inch wheel what sort fo geairng do you recommend I start with ? I am looking at the ratio?

[Lucky Fish]

Start with a spell check.

[Cav']

If you lube it properly you will eliminate the geras...

[Cav']

Ask dangle,eldron,sir maxis or iron.

 

They'll be able to answer you.

[TNOSE_E]

32/18

[Agteros]

On a 26" SS, if the roads you ride are relatively flat: 32x16, if not (or you do not feel really strong), 32x18

[Ryanpmb]

What these okes have said...

 

26" wheels... 32x18 to start. You should soon move to 32x16.

[shaper]

Try 32 x 16 and see how you go. Depends on the terrain and type of riding. If in and around jhb, NF, the spruit etc you should do most on 32 x 16, if not strong, then 32 x 18 but expect to spin a lot the bigger the gearing.

 

Have a look on your geared ride to see what ring and cog you climb best in. Will be a good starting point for your fitness level.

[the nerd]

I say 32/18 to start with. A good combo to get going!

[Audible Anarchy]

also a SS noob - im building a SS from an old 26" MTB using the 32T chainring from a Shimano 9 speed triple Crankset. What would be the best (budget friendly) option for the rear sprocket and tensioner - also what chain do i need , will a normal 9 speed chain do? or must i look at a thicker BMX style chain?

[TNOSE_E]

also a SS noob - im building a SS from an old 26" MTB using the 32T chainring from a Shimano 9 speed triple Crankset. What would be the best (budget friendly) option for the rear sprocket and tensioner - also what chain do i need , will a normal 9 speed chain do? or must i look at a thicker BMX style chain?

 

 

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=10009

 

And slap a 9speed chain on...

[Audible Anarchy]

http://www.chainreac...x?ModelID=10009

 

And slap a 9speed chain on...

 

legend!

[Paul Ruinaard]

Try 32 x 16 and see how you go. Depends on the terrain and type of riding. If in and around jhb, NF, the spruit etc you should do most on 32 x 16, if not strong, then 32 x 18 but expect to spin a lot the bigger the gearing.

 

Have a look on your geared ride to see what ring and cog you climb best in. Will be a good starting point for your fitness level.

ha ha

 

small ring front - big ring back

 

Anyway will play around - plan N farm as a start. for a ride this weekend

[shaper]

also a SS noob - im building a SS from an old 26" MTB using the 32T chainring from a Shimano 9 speed triple Crankset. What would be the best (budget friendly) option for the rear sprocket and tensioner - also what chain do i need , will a normal 9 speed chain do? or must i look at a thicker BMX style chain?

 

www.dialdbike.co.za and search for DMR single speed conversion kit, currently selling R356 (am on my iPad, so can't post the direct link). Kit will have tensioner, spacers and 16 cog

 

http://dialdbikes.co.za/?desktop&dispatch=products.view&product_id=38

 

Edit, updated link and cheaper than CRC

Edited December 21, 2012 by shaper

[V12man]

Here is my ratio spreadsheet - 26" and 29" - there are a few ways of looking at the same thing in the spreadsheet.

 

I run 34 x 16 on 26" and 34 x 18 on 29" - this works for Jhb and the spruit for me.

 

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/13526263/Single%20speed%20gear%20ratios.xlsx

[Ryanpmb]

also a SS noob - im building a SS from an old 26" MTB using the 32T chainring from a Shimano 9 speed triple Crankset. What would be the best (budget friendly) option for the rear sprocket and tensioner - also what chain do i need , will a normal 9 speed chain do? or must i look at a thicker BMX style chain?

DMR kit and 9 speed chain.

 

Bmx chain is wider and runs better with a 1/8" sprocket (I run mine with a 3/32" SS specific chainring & 1/8" sprocket), but can run on 3/32" chain ring and sprocket. Can't run a 3/32" chain on 1/8" sprockets or chain rings.

Edited December 21, 2012 by Ryanpmb