Single Speed frame advice - modern or retro?

[Dossa]

Going to build up a rigid SS in the new year and, probably the wrong forum to ask (!) but any significant advantages/differences regarding a modern or retro frame?

Had it in my head to build up something like a mid-90s Saracen Kili frame, which I would assume to cost about the £70 mark to buy (with or without forks?)

After a possible new powdercoat/decals etc it'd be up to the £120-50 figure or so i'd guess.

Or, on the other hand, go for something like an On One Inbred 26er frame which are in the sales now for £120.

Both steel, both would be rigid, both would be running 32:16 ratio, both 26" wheels etc etc.....

Any thoughts?

Cheers, Matty

 

[Grannygrinder]

I'd go for an SS specific Inbred if it was me, although i have just bought a Genesis IO frame for £50

 

[firedfromthecircus]

Chain tensioners are pap.

If you want ss then best to get a frame with suitable dropouts, or modify what you get. £+++

 

[suburbanreuben]

The inbred will be fat, heavy and have a rear triangle made from scaffold poles, even if it does say 853 on the ticket.
A mid 90s frame though will likely be made from Prestige, or some such quality piping throughout and be light and lively. Most 16.75" chainstayed bikes can run 33;17 (3%lower than 32;16) with a slightly stretched, but not knackered, chain, or you could file a mm off the dropout.
A 16 5/8" stayed frame can run just about any ratio you desire without a tensioner.

 

[Dossa]

Thanks for a detailed reply, sub

Decision made, then...... :xmas-wink:

 

[Dossa]

i have just bought a Genesis IO frame for £50

Pah, seen ya coming..... :mrgreen:

 

[kaiser]

If your after fuss free winter biking then certainly consider something that can run discs. FWIW I've ran tensioners without a problem in the past, though a SS specific is nice and clutter free looking, but for a first SS then something you can run gears on if it doesn't suit is a boon. I've had SS specific frames in the past and at some point I've wanted to fit gears, so much so that what I have got singlespeed now are actually geared(hanger equipped) frames.

 

[shedobits]

+1 re what Kaiser writes about winter mud clearance, also by switching my SS frame to modern I had my first ever cable free bike!

 

[danson67]

If you're not completely wedded to steel, might be worth looking out for a Salsa Joan Solo. 1450g scandium/alu with vert rear dropouts and an eccentric BB for tensioning:

You can get derailleur hangers for it, as the rear end is the same as the other Salsa (QBP) aluminium frames.
I've got mine set up as a fixed commuter, but it'll take a rear disc or Vs.

All the best,