Conversion from Gears to Singlespeed

[Devon Melville]

Hi

 

I am looking at converting my MTB to a Singlespeed,

is there anyone out there that can help and advise what I need for this conversion.

 

Any suggestions or help is welcomed.

 

Thanks

Edited August 20, 2014 by Devm10

[flat29]

we need more info (bike, model...) and maybe some pics

[Letum911]

Is it a shimano freebody on the hub? If so. Just get a spacer kit from your lbs, desired sprocket size and a chain tensioner. But just do a search. There's an insane amount of information on thehub with regards to singlespeed

[RockCoach]

Usually if you haven't go a SS specific frame:

 

A single speed spacer kit. Otherwise those plastic spacers out of an old cassette.

The kit sometimes includes a couple of single gear cogs.

 

A chain tensioner of some sort. You can convert an old derailleur to do the job.

 

Shorter chainring bolts.

 

An eight speed chain. Or even a half link chain if you have the budget.

[shaper]

lots of info and builds here https://www.bikehub.co.za/f/41-fixie-singlespeed/

 

Remove shifters, FD and RD

Remove chainrings and cassette

Fit SS chainring or use the middle chainring if 3x and you will need short chainring bolts to do so

Fit tensioner

Fit spacers and SS cog, line up so is in straight line with chainring

Fit chain as tight as possible and use tensioner to take up slack

Drink beer while working

Go ride

[dirtrider]

Lots of beer

[JulesV]

http://dialdbikes.co.za/dmr-single-speed-conversion-kit.html

[Hairy]

http://www.rapide.co.za/c228/Single-Speeder.aspx#.U_S_n_npKBw

[Devon Melville]

Cool thanks to all for the input

Flat29 - Carbon from - KappiKappi,

Letum911 - Shim free body

Robodog - thanks and noted your comments

Shaper - Great advise, like the beer part

Copperhead - i am in melnerton but do not mind making a trip to that side of the mountain.

 

Will upload a pic shortly

[Tankman]

Try Magic Gear or get a Halflink chain and get rid of the chain tensioner.

 

Chain tensioners on SS's are like tits on transvestites, they dont belong there.

[dirtrider]

Problem with the majik gear , it's not always that magic !!!

[shaper]

Problem with magic gear is that chain eventually stretches and is no longer magic, so you have to use a tensioner!

 

Best option if you really get into SS, consider changing the frame to a SS specific if you want the clean look without a tensioner

[Tankman]

 

 

Problem with magic gear is that chain eventually stretches and is no longer magic, so you have to use a tensioner!

 

Best option if you really get into SS, consider changing the frame to a SS specific if you want the clean look without a tensioner

 

Dont use a new chain on Magic gear.

 

Magic gear takes time and patience but it works. Had it on a commuter. Had to try 8, 9 and 10spd chains before I found Magic and 9sp worked perfectly.

 

Halflink chains are much cheaper than a new frame and comes in many pretty colours and then you still dont have a sack hanging under the stay.

[Devon Melville]

Awesome, thanks guys for this.

Will let you all know how it went and what outs i decided to take.

[NINER_boy]

Hi Devm10

 

Happy building / stripping.

 

Have a beer, take your time and start maybe around

34x19 (29er)

34x16 (26" bike)

 

I have a tensioner or two for sale here...

https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/100499-dmr-ss-chain-tensioner/https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/100499-dmr-ss-chain-tensioner/

https://www.bikehub.co.za/classifieds/100499-dmr-ss-chain-tensioner/

 

This is going be the most fun you will have with your legs together...

 

PM me if interested.

Thx

[goodluck Phil danger]

Hi Devm10

 

Happy building / stripping.

 

Have a beer, take your time and start maybe around

34x19 (29er)

34x16 (26" bike)

 

I have a tensioner or two for sale here...

http://www.thehubsa....hain-tensioner/

http://www.thehubsa....hain-tensioner/

 

This is going be the most fun you will have with your legs together...

 

PM me if interested.

Thx