Help with CHEAP Single speed setup

[messiah]

Make your own tensioner, very easy to do.

http://www.geocities.com/mtnwuff/SStens.html

I used one like this for two years before I got the dropouts changed. It was piss easy to build and never missed a beat.

 

[neebsta]

Get a decent chain though (Single Speed Specific) I can't speak for everyone but my sram geared chain snapped continuosly (It wasn't old either) when used on a Single Speed Rig. Changed about 2 weeks ago to a PC1.....Problem solved!

A 32:16 ratio is pretty tame too!

 

[Andy R]

Also can i just use a 7s chain & normal crankset with the Granny and outer rings removed. It'd look a bit naff but would have do until i can get more cash..

It wouldn't look any more naff than this set-up I'm using (and I can live with how it looks..)

Just use a deep tooth chainring without any shifting ramps/pins and the same goes for the sprocket too. I can see no reason why a 7 or 8 speed chain won't be fine (as long as it's not old and knackered). Plenty of people (including me) use them..

32:16 isn't that "tame" a ratio - it all depends on the type of terrain you want to ride. I'm running 32:18 but some run 32:17 or 34:18 etc.

Different strokes for different folks.....

 

[messiah]

First time I built up my Kona Singlespeed I used a sprocket and chainring which had ramps - caused me no problems for the first couple of rides.

After two rides I was hooked and decided to spend a little cash and get a sprocket and ring without ramps.

Build it cheap... see if you like it... get carried away and spend thousands :twisted:

 

[Harryburgundy]

Build it cheap... see if you like it... get carried away and spend thousands :twisted:

How true, trying to find a way to justify buying these :shock:
Eccentric rear hub
http://www.whiteind.com/rearhubs/singlespeedhubs.html
Front hub
http://www.whiteind.com/fronthubs.html
and these
http://www.whiteind.com/cranks/singlespeedcranks.html
None of which I really need.....but, well, you know

 

[Bike Hoarder]

Try using an old rear mech, cut off the bottom of the cage, there's enough spring tension to take up any slack.

I'm using this on a cannondale that i built up cheap, it seems to work okay, but i haven't done huge miles on it.

I even ground of the cable clamp, and the barrel adjuster, just to make it look a bit smoother.

I can't claim that it's my idea, i saw it in a recent copy of MBUK.....