Converting a multi-speed mountain bike into a single-speed or fixed gear bike requires a few modifications, including removing unneeded components, choosing a desired gear ratio and adjusting the chain. In short, the actual conversion is a process of finding the working parts and correct chain length to reach a functioning result of a simple fixed gear bicycle.
Step 1
Remove both shifters and all cables for front and rear derailleurs using Allen wrenches.
Step 2
Remove both the front and rear derailleur using Allen wrenches.
Step 3
Remove larger and smaller front chain rings, leaving the middle in place.
Step 4
Remove the rear wheel.
Step 5
Use the cassette tool to remove the rear cassette. This step can be expedited by taking the rear wheel to a bike mechanic who will have the proper tools.
Step 6
Save the gear spacers from in-between the unneeded cogs and begin to determine if you will need more spacers. Most often you will. A trained bike mechanic can help you with this step as well.
Step 7
Choose a desired and efficient gear ratio, such as the common 2:1. For example, a 32-tooth front ring coupled with a 16-tooth cog in the rear.
Step 8
Reassemble the rear cassette with selected gear and spacers in place. Many times a new or single-speed specific hub can eliminate complications associated with multi-geared hubs in this step.
Step 9
Install a chain tensioner and determine the proper chain length by removing links of chain until the appropriate length is found.
Tips and Warnings
- This is a basic approach to converting a multi-speed mountain bike to a single-speed. It is helpful to have all the necessary tools for the task, and it is also likely that it will require some trial and error before attaining the objective of a functioning bicycle. While converting to a single-speed is largely removing parts, adding components like a chain tensioner can help guide the chain and eliminate chain complications. Proper chain length is determined by snugging the wheel to the frame and removing chain links until the bike can be pedaled without the chain falling off. This is perhaps the most tedious step in the conversion. Using a fixed gear cassette designed for a BMX bicycle is a common practice.
- Many mountain bikes come equipped with rear chain rings or cogs that are designed to induce shifting. Referred to as hyper glide, or glide, the rings have small ramps that are machined into their sides that provide a smooth transition for the chain during the stress of shifting gears. It's best to replace the selected ring for use on a single-speed to avoid the possibility of the chain leaving the chain ring.
Things You'll Need
- Set of metric Allen wrenches
- Proper cogs (2:1)
- Cassette tool
- Chain tool
- Chain tensioner
- Single-speed hub (if needed)
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