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Fixed n00b MTB rear wheel question

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  • 17-07-2008 5:51pm
    #1
    Bicyclegadabout
    Closed Accounts Posts: 378 ✭✭


    Right, that title has enough buzz words to intrigue most of you.


    I have a possibly daft question which has me flummoxed. I have an old mountain bike. I’d like to make it a fixed gear. I’ve resigned myself to the idea that I need a new rear wheel.

    Afaik I have your normal 26” rear wheel, ie, its diameter is 22”.
    If I order a fixed hub off the net there, will they build it into a wheel that I need if I ask them? As in, does the hub that you buy have any baring on the wheel it gets built into? Is it as simple as me just ordering that hub and wheel tonight? Thanks.


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    #2
    Morgan
    Registered Users Posts: 2,481 ✭✭✭Morgan


    As long as the hub and rim have the same number of spoke-holes then you'll be fine.


  • Options
    #3
    Daveskig
    Registered Users Posts: 6 ✭Daveskig


    ensure that you purchase the correct width hub.

    does the frame have horizontal dropoouts so that you can tension the chain correctly? you can fit chain tensioners if necessary but it's not ideal.

    this site it famous amongst us fixies and has tons of useful info. http://sheldonbrown.com/fixed/index.html

    this site/group has loads of images (even videos) and discussions on on/off-road fixed bikes; http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2204895523

    i wish you luck with the build.


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    #4
    Bicyclegadabout
    Closed Accounts Posts: 378 ✭✭Bicyclegadabout


    Oh I've read all about it. This one thing was just annoying my head.
    I know nothing about wheels. Nothing.


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    #5
    Daveskig
    Registered Users Posts: 6 ✭Daveskig


    That's an interesting statement "know nothing about wheels". One could say, everything else on a bike is determined by whether gears/fixed are installed.

    fixed hubs are usually 120mm wide. That impact the frame. The chaniring and sprockets need to be well aligned. the chain tension needs to be right - dropout type. Many omit rear brake. Obviously gearing is critical and where you want to ride dictates. The seating and bars my end up slightly different positions from geared set-up. So, you should start with the wheel, then build the rest.

    A serious tip.....Please be careful when cleaning/adjusting chain on fixed wheel bikes. All this dragging cloths along the chain to clean or worse, holding a cloth and turning the chain..... is LETHAL. If your fingers get dragged into the teeth..... say no more

    Don't be put off by noted above. Fixed wheels bikes are a lot of fun to ride. Good luch with the project.


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