1x9

[wesley_r]

I'm thinking of converting my Mongoose Tyax Super to a 1x9 setup - basically 1 chain ring on the front (32), and the usual 9 at the back. So no front derailler, and no front shifter - less maintenance and less stuff.

 

what's the best way to do this? should I just remove the small and big chain rings and add / fabricate a bash guard (the cheaper option), or is a new crank set in order? seems most of the single chain ring crank sets are geared for freeride / downhill (36t or bigger) and I'd prefer a 32t - I did find one (Bontrager Earl SS) that was a 32t, dunno if it's any good though: http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=59278

 

secondly, are chain guides essential? obviously when you're normally on the middle chain ring, the chain is at quite an angle to reach the biggest / smallest rings at the back... will this be a problem with only 1 chain ring on the front?

 

any advise and tips would be appreciated.

[Thug]

Definitely go the chain guide route and another recommendation would be to get a single speed chainring for your crank.

 

The teeth of a SS chainring have a slightly wider surface area which will help in ensuring that your chain doesn't "bounce" off and obviously it doesn't have ramps or pins like a normal chainring would.

 

When I rode my Scandal as a 1x9, I purchased these........

 

Blackspire

 

E-Thirteen

 

Never had any issue and I rode with a standard XT chainring and cassette.