Aug 17 2008
How to Convert an Old Road Bike into a Fixed Gear Bike
Riding a fixed gear bike is an exciting experience. In order to understand the joy that fixed gear bikes bring to their owners it is important for one to know the difference between a fixed gear bike and the more common road bike. The main delineating feature between the two is that a fixed gear bike does not have a freewheel, which gives road bikes the ability to coast. Therefore, one can go not only forward, but backward as well. The simplicity of a fixed gear bike is wonderful, and converting an old road bike to a fixed gear is half the fun.
This article is intended for individuals wanting to convert an old road bike into a fixed gear bike. It will explain the different parts needed and the various steps necessary to complete the process.
Step1 Select a road bike or mountain bike frame suitable for transformation to fixed gear.
A frame to be converted to fixed-gear use should have horizontal, rear dropouts, which means the slots in the frame holding the rear axle should run in a "horizontal" direction. This allows the rider to move the axle as needed and to adjust the chain tension. It is possible to convert a newer bike with "vertical" dropouts, but it is much more difficult.
The best bikes frames for fixed-gear conversion are 1970's (or earlier) road bikes. Frames of this era tend to have generous tire clearance providing more versatility in tire selection.
Step2 Remove the derailleurs, derailleur cables, and shifters.
Step3 Convert your rear wheel using a track hub or a flip-flop hub.
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GT Mohawk BMX Hub Set 32h Sealed Bearings NOS Flip Flop |  |
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US $44.98 | 23h 54m |
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36 SPOKE ALUMINUM F303 DOUBLE WALL RIMS FLIP FLOP HUB | |
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US $69.99 | 14h 16m |
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Gt Mohawk Hub 14mm Flip Flop | |
1 Bid | US $.99 | 2d 3h 4m |
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NOS flip flop Suzue Hubs 36H Vintage Old School BMX | |
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US $49.99 | 3d 15h 7m |
If you have a freewheel hub, you can remove the freewheel and thread on a cog. You may want to consider using a lockring to hold the cog in place, and consider switching to a solid axle. If you plan to purchase a new hub, your two best options are a track hub or a flip flop hub. Track hubs have a stepped thread, with the main thread being the same as a normal freewheel hub. Outboard of the main thread is another threaded section that is a left (reverse) thread. Once you screw on the sprocket, tighten it securely so that the ring presses against the outer surface of the sprocket. As a result, the sprocket cannot be unscrewed by the chain, no matter how hard you fight the pedals.
Flip-flop hubs (or double-sided hubs) are threaded on both sides. They are called flip-flop hubs because one can ride either fixed gear or freewheel. One side is equipt with a track-type threading, and the other is threaded for a single-speed standard freewheel. Occasionally one can find a flip-flop hub with track threading on both sides, but it can be difficult.
Step4 Adjust the chainline.
It is very important to get the chain line just right. The chainline can be checked by installing the hub in the bike, without the chain. This allows one to see if the chainwheel lines up with the rear sprocket. If it does not, re-arrange the spacers or change the bottom bracket axle as necessary, then apply the chain.
Step5 Check the chain tension.
The chain tension on a fixed gear is critical. It is regulated by moving the rear axle back and forth in the fork ends. If the chain is too tight the drive train will bind. The chain should be tight as it can be without binding. If the chain is too loose it can fall off. Make sure the chain tension is correct before attempting to ride the bike.
Step6 Keep your brakes.
This step is optional. Some people remove both brakes or only the rear brake in order to get a cleaner look. But it is always nice to have the stopping power of at least the front brake, especially for the navigation of hills and vehicular traffic.
It should not be too difficult to find the parts necessary to convert an old road bike to a fixed gear bike. Be sure to check with all the local bike stores before searching the Internet because it is much easier to fit and return parts when they are purchased locally.
If this will be your first fixed gear conversion, be sure to familiarize yourself with the 6-step process before starting. This will help avoid any headaches caused by frustration. The fixed gear conversion process should be an enjoyable one - almost as enjoyable as the bike ride itself. Enjoy!
