Fixed gear Mountainbike, Shift Kit ???

Cafe Racer · #1 08-04-2010, 05:02 PM

Hello,

As mentioned before, I still have not strted my first build but I do have the motor kit sitting in my shop ready for the start. But before I begin I will have a few more questions for you seasoned folks.

Are shift kits primarily Mt Bikes or are they for single geared bikes too? I was thinking of converting my mountain bike to a single gear before adding the motor. Thoughts?

As for the "why" questions. Simplicity. And I think it looks beautiful.

Mountain Bike History 101 and the Single Speed | Mountain bike product reviews, bike builds, trail reviews, forum, and tips - MTOBikes.com

Miguel

Kevlarr · #2 08-04-2010, 05:45 PM

I can't think of any reason why it wouldn't work, heck if you used a fixed rear sprocket it would let you bump start it.

NunyaBidness · #3 08-04-2010, 06:45 PM

I think it will work but I must ask why use a "shift"kit if you're not going to be shifting?

GearNut · #4 08-05-2010, 12:10 AM

One chain, no tensioner, cleaner looking install, easier to do maintenance on rear wheel, and maby other reasons I can't think of right now.

**BarelyAWake** · #5 08-05-2010, 01:32 AM

'Cept ofc you'll have three chains, a tensioner for the second chain in particular would be a wonderful thing, the engine becomes slightly more awkward to remove, ...and I think that's it lol

Don't get me wrong, I dearly love my shiftkit and wouldn't build another w/o one - but if you're attracted to the simplicity of a fixie then perhaps a shiftkits' added complexity isn't for you.

For a clean, simple looking install - have you considered a mutli-speed rear hub? An engine w/gears is a wonderful thing

Cafe Racer · #6 08-05-2010, 03:06 AM

Hello,

Thanks for the comments. Polite comments I should add. Actually, I made a couple mistakes. I was thinking of a single speed mountain bike. I dont know why I said fixed gearing.

And I suppose that since I wouldnt be shifting I wouldnt need a shift kit. I guess that was a silly question.

My plan is not to use the bike offroad much. Here in Northern California I think that I would stand out too much in any of the bike trails. And that would be a really bad thing. I am planning a 90/10 application bias towards the street.

Anyway, I hope to get this on the workbench soon. To be honest, the reason I have not started the build is because I am building a workbench and tooling area. I want to have a proper area to work on my bikes (and motorcycles). I just bought a house in San Francisco and have been rebuilding for the family. The garage phase started about 2 weeks ago. Currently working on a 13'x18"x3' work bench with cabinets underneath. Once complete things will start to happen.

Thanks again folks.

Miguel

**BarelyAWake** · #7 08-05-2010, 04:02 AM

Nice shop space man *drools w/envy*

Not to worry about "mistakes" bouncing ideas both good & mebbe not so good is exactly why we're here as I see it - heck, even having a jackshaft on a single speed isn't "silly" - just different is all... ya might even wanna give it a go jus' for giggles - you could always add gears later if ya wanted.

You've no idea of some of the truly odd things I've daydreamed up lol it's all part of the hobby I figure

Kevlarr · #8 08-05-2010, 11:30 AM

I have to agree with BarelyAWake, there are quite a few benefits to using a shift kit,

Single drive chain.

No tensioner

Ability to go to a multi speed simply adding a different wheel and dérailleur

No sprocket adapter (if one is even available for your chosen wheel) needed

Ability to run a rear disk brake with no adapter

kevyleven007 · #9 08-06-2010, 09:15 PM

you......are a genious!!!That is the most brilliant idea I have ever heard of!but wait!how about a fixed gear 7 speed!now THAT WOULD ROCK!!!!!!

Cafe Racer · #10 08-09-2010, 12:19 AM

[QUOTE=kevyleven007;206683]you......are a genious!!!That is the most brilliant idea I have ever heard of!QUOTE]

Thanks... I am new in this game so genious is a bit premature. But, non-the-less thanks! But I figure that if I can teardown vintage sportbikes and buidl them up with modern components this motor+bicycle thing should be easy enough. Hmmmmm?

Thinking that I will give both methods a try. First, I will install the tensioner. Then I will work on shortening the chain and going with a direct drive without a spring loaded device.

I will also give the "Jackshaft" method a shot. I think it is important to learn how each of those methods work. I will have another new topic shortly... get ready!

Miguel