Fixed Gear Conversion
A while back I took an old Raleigh ten-speed and stripped off all the gears, making it into a single-speed bike with freewheel that I'd been using to buzz around town, go back and forth to work, check in with my parole officer, etc. Well, since that first phase of the project, I've taken the grand experiment a step farther, and did some more tinkering to set-up the bike as a full-blown fixie.
If you're not familiar with the concept, a fixed-gear bike is one that has no freewheel. That means the chain, your pedals and the rear wheel are all directly connected at all times. You cannot coast. If the wheels are turning, so are your feet. It's the purest form of machine and a heck of a lot of fun.
If you're interested in following my descent into this madness, I've put together a photo gallery that documents the transformation of a rather ordinary 80's-era ten-speed bike into something pretty excellent, if I do say so myself.
Photo Gallery: Converting a Ten-Speed into a Single-Speed/Fixed Gear Bike
Photo: Dave Fiedler
Comments
Many cyclists in the local bike club, ride and train on fixed gear bikes. They claim the fixed gear improves your pedal stroke and spinning. Being that I am short, their fixed bikes were too big for me for a test ride. I ended up buying a TREK’s SOHO. It took me a while to learn how to stop and dismount gracefully. Once I had that somewhat mastered, I switched the pedals to SPD. Of course with the non stop pedaling, it reminds you quickly that you can not coast! Some ask if my legs get tired from the nonstop pedaling….not at all. From my expereince, the fixed gear bike is easy to ride, fast, and climbing small hills is a breeeze. (I haven’t attempted large hills yet..not many here in Florida). Besides,I have been told that my riding technique has improved. I ride the fixed bike all the time whether it is for commuting or going for a long ride. I love it and no longer have a desire to ride a freewheel geared bike again! You have to try it!