Dudes just turn any ratio you want. Don't give into the peer pressure. -Mr. Singlespeed Spinner. My ratios. 33:21 26" wheels 32:21 29" wheels btw, 33:21 on 26" wheels IS lower than 32:20. It is low, But sheit, I raced this ratio at Bonelli this year and finished 3rd Beginners (only 5sec out of second). Passed lots of folks on gears, suspension, and very expensive bikes.
Gearing also depends on your bike/frame. Geometry, weight can be a deciding factor on your final gear ratio. My Schwinn is heavier, with 69 degree head tube and seat tube angles plus 19 inch chain stays, so its harder to climb than the Niner and my old 1FG. Also there isn't too much flex with the Niner and Cannondale so I get more power to the wheels and push a taller gear. Your Univega is an older frame so it's probably heavy and flexy as well so a 20 may be what you need. Don't get pigeonholed into a gear ratio that everyone else is running. You'll have to get on the trails and see for yourself what's comfortable. But I still think a 32:22 is way too low even for a beginner SS. You'll quickly get tired of that ratio.
The bike is about 90% done. I'm just missing brake cables and I have a question about the chain tensioner. I'll eventually be picking up the Surly from Lee but currently I'm using a Shimano one. Should the chain line be running above or below the tensioner cog? Edit: It looks like the Singealtor directions indicate above or below based on the frame, chain slack, etc. What are your experiences?
Ken, The tensioner you have is an older Surly. It just doesn't have the larger chain guide like the newer version. I think the size of the rear cog and clearance with the chainstays might dictate which way you want the tension on the chain. Pushing up allows the chain to wrap around more of the rear cog eliminating the possibility of the chain jumping off. I seem to remember when I had the tensioner with the pushdown spring, the chain may have fallen more, but that was only when the trail was really bumpy.
A few pics As requested by Foo. 90% done. I still need to get brake cables and mount/adjust the chain tensioner correctly (hence the chain link hanging down in one pic). Once it's complete, I'll list the total cost, etc. Sorry for the crappy pics.
that's exactly what i was going to ask with regards to the chainline...I thought i had done a good job of getting my chainline straight but Dave (26'er zen master) thought differently. BTW Ken, you're build looks great dude! Can we get some progress pics of everyone's build so far? be good to get everyone caught up on your builds
No problems with the freewheel. The cog threaded on fine and I tested spinning the hub and coasting it with no issues. The chain line is not a perfect bee line but surprisingly nearly straight. I'll have to get a better photo of it during the day.
i thought i had a straight line as well until i was riding the bike i actually heard it skip a tooth when i started mashing
Chainline pic Here are a few pics I snapped during New Years Eve. I came home from the store to take pics of the chainline and low and behold. My I.H. was trying to shack up with my Marin in the Patio. What's up with that Dino?
What's up with that? When your built like a HORSE, ladies have a way of finding you! Capiche'... Sabe... Comprende'
now that i've had some seat time w/ this rig...can anyone recommend a reasonably priced light air fork?
Update My bike should be done by this weekend. The bike is at the shop to get the chain line straight and some stuff looked at. Pictures are soon to come.
Give this a shot http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/FK409C01-Surly+1X1+Fork.aspx Well, it is hollow, so technically it's an 'air fork' and it's light...sort of.
