How to Build a Speed Cycle

Speed cycles are for the more serious riders.

Fixed gear speed cycles are some of the most resilient, versatile bikes on the road. These bikes provide a singular level of resistance. The road determines the difficulty level and the consistency of the fixed gear provides experienced cyclists with the ability to achieve stellar pace.

Things You'll Need

• Aviation snips
• Phillips screwdriver
• Allen wrench set
• Fixed-gear conversion kit
• Chain-tensioner
• Chain link
• 5 mm chain ring bolts

Instructions

1. Cut the chain from your hard-tail bicycle using aviation snips.

2. Remove the gear mechanisms. The shifters, cables and derailleurs should all be removed. Use a phillips screwdriver and an Allen wrench to remove these fixtures. If you find that your bicycle has additional features that require specialized tools, contact a bicycle mechanic to inquire which tools will be necessary.

3. 

   The multi-gear wheels should be removed carefully to avoid disturbing the equilibrium of the spokes.

   Remove the front and rear chain-rings by lifting them off the gear wheel, starting at the back and finishing in the front. You will be replacing this multi-gear chain-ring with 5mm bolts to accommodate the fixed-gear apparatus.

4. Remove the rear gear wheel by first removing the rear wheel. The single speed converter kit will fit into the apparatus in the center of the spokes. Use the nuts and bolts provided with your converter kit to tightly fasten the device.

5. 

   Speed cycles are great for long trips and last years.

   Reattach the rear wheel to the bicycle. The new chain will be set into the front chain ring and rear cog. Make sure any excess chain is cut off using aviation snips. The chain should be tight and snug from the front to the rear.

6. Use the chain tensioner to pull in any slack that remains. Adjust the chain until it wraps around the front and rear gear wheels at a comfortable 180 degrees.

References

• "Atomic Zombie's Bicycle Builder's Bonanza"; Brag Graham and Kathy McGowan; 2004
• Sheldonbrown.com: Fixed Gear on the Cheap; Tom Deakins
• Youtube.com: How to Build a Single Speed Bike