Best single speed converter

If you are using a mountain bike, chances are you have a vertical dropout. Although it is my least preferred option, using a chain tensioner is one of only two methods for adjusting chain tension on a bike with a horizontal dropout. If you are wanting to convert your dual suspension bike to singlespeed, you will also have to run a chain tensioner due to chain growth.

The only way around this is by purchasing a new frame that uses a concentric pivot suspension design. The good news it that the cheapest chain tensioner is an old derailleur:. Rear Derailleur Single Speed Tensioner. Photo: Cyclocross Magazine. By carefully selecting the right gear ratio, your chain length and tension is good enough to use without dropping the chain.

A half link chain will allow you more flexibility with your gear ratios but will only get you so far. Here is a great guide for the maths of the magic ratio. Without a doubt, a single speed conversion without tensioner is the nicest and cleanest way to go. Not only does it look the best, it is more efficient than using a tensioner, lighter and easier to maintain. In some ways this is the simplest way to convert to single speed, though getting used to the adjustment can be tricky. By sliding the axle forwards and backwards in the dropouts you can adjust chain tension easily.

Unfortunately when you add disc brakes and fenders into the mix things it becomes a lot more challenging to fix a flat tire. If you find your wheel is slipping forwards under load and loosening off your chain tension this is quite common depending on your set up , you should try either swapping the quick release lever to the other side of the bike, purchasing a chain tug or a stronger quick release axle, or ideally a bolt on hub.

Originally created to solve issues with chain tension on tandem bicycles, eccentric bottom brackets are a perfect way to tension chains on single speeds, especially if you are using a bike with either disc brakes or a rear fender.

By using a frame with an oversized bottom bracket shell, the standard bottom bracket is offset, allowing adjustment of the chain tension as you rotate the bottom bracket around the shell.

When optimum tension is acquired, set screws are tightened to hold the EBB in place. Eccentric Bottom Bracket. Photo: Bike Rumor. Older Eccentric Bottom Brackets used to creak and be an annoyance at times but technology seems to have improved this. My last EBB did not creak at all. Other things to be aware of is how they affect the geometry of your bike, most importantly the BB height and chainstay length. Mainly used for mountain bikes but slowly creeping into the cyclocross scene are a range of alternative dropouts allowing adjustment for chain tension but the ability to retain a quick release axle for easy rear wheel removal.

Paragon Sliding Dropouts. Photo: Clockwork Bikes. While some can creak, again it appears that technology has fixed most of these problems. If I was choosing one of these methods, I would personally take the Swinging Dropouts as I find them more reliable. Your trials, freeride jump and similar needs are in check with the A2Z Conversion Kit for easy conversion from rear free hub to a single speed variant. The A2Z Conversion Kit is an excellent option to try with lock ring, spacers, and 16, 18 Tooth sprockets coming along.

For the price, you get a strong construction no doubt. Also, it is a fantastic single speed conversion kit to try for any rear freehub. The installing takes a few minutes and anybody who have zero experience with such fittings can even do this without much effort. Also, it is great for single speed trials. We would love to recommend the A2Z Conversion Kit for enjoying a faster ride experience. The pedal sometimes needs a bit extra force, however. And to make your riding life even more convenient and full of speed, you may decide to turn ahead towards an ebike.

The kit includes everything you need except the battery and tire. Also, these are super simple to get together through simple guidance. You get the durable aluminum made double-walled rim plus hub motor to get a quick attachment benefit.

The LCD display up-gradation provides an excellent battery percentage checking, speed total, and single trip distance data as well. So, how do you know which one out of all these several options will really meet what you are looking for? When you are looking for a single speed conversion kit, you surely need to pay attention to the manufacturer.

Probably the one brand that has a good reputation for making kits in the biking industry should be your first choice. They are more likely to produce good stuff that will be easy to use and better quality. Buying something noncompatible will later be a reason for regret undoubtedly. So, make sure you check the compatibility by taking enough time. Of course, a conversion kit component needs to made with durable material. These are going to fit your bike.

So, to ensure the durability, peek over the material that was used to make the kit components. A conversion kit should include clear and simple instructions for fittings.

Since there are varying models of conversion kit, the installation guidance would vary. Also, not everyone has previous experience of using such kits. However still do some research on how many pieces the kit involves, its built-in quality, and ease of use to validate that the price actually is worth the product.

Usually, the finest ratio for most folks is This is basically the gear combo with a chair ring that has a double number of teeth than the cog. The chainring is also known as front gear and cog is called the rear gear. And so, the answer to this query is yes for most cases.

This is a good kit for any kind of Shimano freehub you have. This will just make the cogs spacers more suitable to handle the tension and retain their quality for a longer time. With these, you can easily turn your multi-speed efficiency-driven bike into a single speed fixed gear bike that adjusts to your level of comfort and gives you more stability when riding on plain ground and also when making fast turns around the corner. There are bolts of 2. Unlike other products in the market, the brand really does matter when you are looking at single speed conversion kits for your bike.

A reputed brand will be more likely to make components that work without getting easily damaged by friction between the parts. They are also more likely to get the spacer's teeth selections right - so buy from a well-known brand. You could get the best gear for your bike, but if it doesn't fit the model of your hub, then it will be of no practical use to you.

Look at the specs of your bike and the conversion kit to check if they are an exact match. Durability is of special importance when buying a speed conversion kit. If the components break off when you're on the road, then you'd have to drag the cycle all the way home.

Check for the quality of materials - the main body of construction should be strong yet lightweight. Something that Chromoly steel would be perfect. Gear ratio is a measure of the number of teeth on a chair ring and those on the cog. A good ratio for this is A single speed kit on your bike will make it an easier and a more pleasant ride.

Your bike will also need comparatively lower maintenance because of a reduced number of moving parts rubbing against each other. Most bikes can be converted from multi-speed to a single speed mechanism.

You might only need to add a new chain to the set up for a smoother end result. Yes, they are technically the same. But more precisely, a single gear bike is one that has a single gear ratio along with a freewheel system. There is low maintenance, for one. Another huge contributor to comfort is that the bike has fewer components, and so it's lightweight but still very stable. And this is what makes the ride feel so much better than a multi-speed bike. If you are a person who rides for the joy of riding, then you should definitely get yourself the best single speed conversion kit out there.