Does a fixie have to break the bank?

[SlickSticker]

For some time now I wanted to build a fixie as a project.

Cheap frame and some good, old, second hand parts!

I dont care if it's a bit crappy, Im not cycling to Durban on it, it's just to roll around my neighbourhood and to the shops, its all flat around here :-)

 

Trying to find a frame and rims at reasonable price seems to be impossible. Shops have latched on and due to supplier demand, in the event of them sourcing one they want to rip you a new one for it.

 

Second hand shops, nothing. Online, nothing! I think I want to buy a bicycle that is old, was once a proper road bike and all the gears are shot, not worth getting it back on the road.

 

Any advice or maybe you have something to sell?

 

Thanks all!

 

 

[rvdm1]

If you want to go the route of using a chain tensioner it would be easier to find a frame secondhand. I have posted a link where you can buy some of the spares you would need online. I don't have a SS myself but I was contemplating putting one together a while back, just never got around to doing it.

 

http://rapidebicycles.co.za/product-category/single-speed-2/

[Stretched@Birth]

If you want to go the route of using a chain tensioner it would be easier to find a frame secondhand. I have posted a link where you can buy some of the spares you would need online. I don't have a SS myself but I was contemplating putting one together a while back, just never got around to doing it.

 

http://rapidebicycles.co.za/product-category/single-speed-2/

There is a difference between a single speed and a fixie. You cannot run a chain tensioner on a fixie, you will hurt yourself...!

 

I was surprised at the prices being charged for 2nd hand track bits, like hubs and cranks. Track frames are also like hens teeth. Keep scouring the second hand shops or bite the bullet and buy a "budget" track bike like the Fuji's sold at Solomons.

[Letum911]

Unfortunately its about supply and demand, fixie parts (in SA) are scarce, so people can charge more. But whether you buy a fixie or all the parts you'll be looking at about R4k. Wheels and the frame are expensive, you can use a normal crank. 

 

I always suggest that people have a look at SimpleSam, R4600 odd for a complete bike that you can modify with time. They are a local brand so I prefer supporting them.

The other option is to build it up over time, this will be cheaper as you can source parts in your budget range.

Also speak to Emile and Hunter Cycling in Braamfontein, give them a budget and ask if he'll be able to get you a bike for that

[NotSoBigBen]

I use a 'normal' frame and run fixie, without a tensioner of course! Haven't had any issues yet .... use a half link chain though.

 

(note the rear derailleur hanger ...)

 

[rvdm1]

There is a difference between a single speed and a fixie. You cannot run a chain tensioner on a fixie, you will hurt yourself...!

 

That I know. My excuse, I was half asleep and thought I read SS. Should probably have finished my work in stead of procrastinating..