I am currently in the makes of a bamboo bike. I have already finished the frame. However, I am having a problem piecing it together. It has a 1-1/8" threadless headset, 68mm english bottom bracket and 130 OLD rear wheel.
Weight, price, and efficiency is my goal. I am currently trying to find out what type o combination of gear ratio, wheels, cranks, and type of fork would be suitable for NYC riding. Thanks in advanced!
Are you talking single speed/fixie or derailleur or IGH (which can be fixie or freewheel)?
Are looing for heavy, expensive and energy absorbing - or the opposite?
The least expensive route is to purchase a bike with all the components you want and swap the frames.
Nigel
i am usually on a 8 speed with big treads but now that i got this bamboo bike i want to save on weight and be efficient. how if fix riding in the city? i have only tried it 3 or 4 blocks. thanks guys & girls
Depends on the city: In San Francisco (USA), MArburg (GER) or Bern (SUI) I'd rather not use a fixed gear bike or even one without shifters. Tyres with tread patterns make no sense on the road, only off-road, keep that in mind.
For wheels, you'd want to build something sensible, depending on tyres and gear selected. Mid range hubs, sensible rims (not too cheap), laced cross three with stainless double butted spokes.
I was thinking of a couple of options. How are carbon fiber forks? I wanted to get thinner treads. Although, I'm not sure what size tires to get. I was also thinking about a 3 speed internal hub because my back drop outs don't have a derailleur extension. I was also thinking about the gates carbon drive. I'm a mess, I bike in NYC btw.
You can always do a search for derailleur hangers that attach to the axle. Found on lower grade bikes.
Never Give Up!!!
Carbon forks are ok, but the cheap ones are too stiff and uncomfortable.
Carbon drive requires a very stiff frame built very precise. There's framebuilders who do that, but they have tons of experience and equipment (and in fact build first, then measure the very critical alignment and decide if they can ship this one with a carbon drive or just the regular stuff).
3 speed internally geared is good enough for a city bike in my opinion. I don't like the brakes there (back pedalling to brake...), but there's options for stuff (I guess).
I want to buy a front fork but i have some concerns.
Is it strange to apply a suspension fork with a lock switch along with a single speed?
Would it also be okay to use 26" wheels on a 700c front fork?
Is 100mm of hub spacing enough clearance for a 26" bike?
I have a pair of stock specialized wheels from a 2002 hardrock hardtail.
I also want to convert it to a freewheel single speed. Would that be possible?
If so what equipment would I need? It currently has a 8 speed cassette on it.
or Would I have to just buy a new set of wheels?
My rear dropouts supports 130 OLD
Thanks for your replies.
What I meant was is 100mm of hub spacing enough to clear for a 26" front wheel?
I just wanted to comment on the idea of the 3-speed hub! That would be ideal as there are only 3 gears to worry about. From owning a couple 3speeds I absolutely adore the moderate gear range.
. In NYC one can compare it to London... not a lot of hilly areas and they are made for stop and go situations.
Good maintenance to your Bike, can make it like the wheels are, true and smooth!