Why single speed?

[Andy R]

What's this "link and a half"? I'm familiar with half-links, adding an extra one seems a bit unnecessary

So you can join the chain with two master links instead of having to push the pin through to connect (like we used to do BITD with derailleur chains ). Easier, faster, more reliable - what is there not to like?

 

[llamedos]

http://www.charliethebikemonger.com/

Always a good place to look

 

[IDB1]

Is there an optimum number of teeth for the cogs or is it completely personal preference?

 

[mikee]

whatever suits m8
but if you mean for a magic ratio then yes
btw a full half link chain is the way to go
see charlie the bike monger again ^

 

[Andy R]

btw a full half link chain is the way to go

I'm gong to disagree with that - no advantages whatever over a conventional chain plus a half link if needed.

 

[perry]

I'm going to agree with Andy disagreeing

Half link chains are shite and I will mock all who purchase them and point out at numerous times throughout a ride that their chain is mysteriously getting loose ; could it be the Z shaped links pulling straight ? I think it could

Those chains were only made so when your rubbing your bmx against a wall the chain doesn't catch and break , the Z links create a smoother surface , kinda like fish scales . The big clue is they are always made by bmx companies .

But it does give you something to replace if your a habitual purchaser , you even get to change the chainring and sprocket every couple hundred miles .

 

[IDB1]

whatever suits m8
but if you mean for a magic ratio then yes

What is this magic ratio you speak of??

 

[Neil G]

I'm going to agree with Andy disagreeing

Half link chains are shite and I will mock all who purchase them and point out at numerous times throughout a ride that their chain is mysteriously getting loose ; could it be the Z shaped links pulling straight ? I think it could

Those chains were only made so when your rubbing your bmx against a wall the chain doesn't catch and break , the Z links create a smoother surface , kinda like fish scales . The big clue is they are always made by bmx companies .

But it does give you something to replace if your a habitual purchaser , you even get to change the chainring and sprocket every couple hundred miles .

Very true

You can also change the colour of the chain every few months to match the latest trends or your grips

 

[hoegaardenadds1]

half links are a pain to remove too. my mate (a fully cytech qualified mechanic) had to hack saw one off his bmx :shock:

 

[JohnH]

Has any one built a single gear bike that uses a multi-speed internal hub like the Shimano Alfine? :?

http://www.bikemagic.com/bike-reviews/s ... /6400.html