Hi. I've got a 2005 Jamis Coda Sport that I'd like to convert into a singlespeed. I think I'd like to buy a new singlespeed specific rear wheel and cog. I'm not sure if I can use the cranks and chainring on the front, or not... I'd also like to find a "magic gear" that would work without a chain tensioner, but that may be hard to do...

So..I guess three questions:

1. What's a decent SS specific rear wheel?
I weigh 200lbs. and do ride some light off-road from time to time, but will be using it on the road 80% of the time.
2. If I need one, what seems to be the best chain tensioner?
3. Can I attach my current crank arms to a new SS front chainring?

Thanks!

-Brett

If you are talking single speed and not fixed, I wouldn't go to the expense of a new rear wheel. Performace Bike sells a conversion kit that includes spacers, SS cog and tensioner. It will work with most 8/9 speed rear wheels.. It's on sale right now for $21.99.

The only other thing you need to buy is a pair of short stack chainring bolts. These will allow you to use one of your existing chainrings on your current crankset... You will be able to convert the bike for about $30.00.


http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=23062&subcategory_ID=5132

Can't help you with 1 or 2, but as for cranks, you certainly can use the existing cranks. If one of the existing rings is the size you want, you can remove the other -- you'll need some shorter bolts to atach the remaining ring. A single-speed-specific chainring has taller teeth, without shift ramps and gates, so it's a little more secure against chain drop, which may be an issue if you're using a chain tensioner. I'll have to let the SS guys weigh in on that -- I know fixies better, and with a fixed you can use any old ring as long as chainline and tension are good. If your crank is one of the standard BCD's you can probably find a SS ring for it.

I think Dave nailed it. And that $30 is only if you have to pay shipping.

But still, this is the internet, so I won't leave well-enough alone:

If you want to go really cheap, you could convert your dérailleur to a chain-tensioner.

If you insist on a dedicated wheel, Formula hubs are dead-reliable. Look for them on a 32 spoke wheel with a rim you've heard of. These hubs also go by the aliases of IRO, Harris Cyclery, and, I'm sure, others. Once you know what they look like, you'll be able to spot them with ease.