Minimum you will need a new rear wheel with a fixie hub. You can use your current crank and BB. Just pick what size chainring you want to run up front. Chain will dependent on the size rear gear you use. But more than likely you will have to switch out to a single speed chain.

 

I converted an old frame years ago using the White Industries eccentric flip-flop hub. Works great for getting the chain tension right on a bike with vertical drops, but there are other options like using your rear derailleur or bolting on a chain tension device that can work just as well. You'll need something to get the chain tension right so you don't jump it off on a bump or something.

 

I converted an old frame years ago using the White Industries eccentric flip-flop hub. Works great for getting the chain tension right on a bike with vertical drops, but there are other options like using your rear derailleur or bolting on a chain tension device that can work just as well. You'll need something to get the chain tension right so you don't jump it off on a bump or something.

Plus 1 on the WI eccentric hub. Minus 1 on the rest. Can't use a tensioning device on a fixed gear, only on a singlespeed. At least not any tensioning device that I'm aware of.

 

For a budget approach Google 1/2 link

If you just want to try it out you can often get adequate chain tension on vertical drops by using a 1/2 link in the chain. The White hub is the cats meow, but not cheap. Sometimes available on eB...

 

If you just want to try it out you can often get adequate chain tension on vertical drops by using a 1/2 link in the chain. The White hub is the cats meow, but not cheap. Sometimes available on eB...

+1....1/2 link is a good way to go cheaply...

You'll need

1. Fixed rear wheel- plenty come in 130 rear spacing....or the axle is long enough for you to add two 5mm spacers(one on each side)
2. Single stack BMX/Track chainring bolts( use the inside ring position)
3. 1/2 link( eBay has them for $5..make sure you get 3/32 if you using your current chain.

You might get lucky with the chain tension without the link but for $5, it's easier to have it handy in case you need it...Most LBS's don't carry them

 

what you should read

more than you need to know
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/fixed-conversion.html

 

+1....1/2 link is a good way to go cheaply...

Doesn't that still leave a lot of room to chance? How much slack does each half link take out? I'd hate to ride fixed without a chain that was tensioned pretty close to ideally.

 

Thanks for the tips so far..I will do some reading and searchers for parts. Is there an online retailer that specializes in fixed gear kits for conversions? That would be nice...

 

Don't know where you are located, but here in the UK CharlieTheBikeMonger seems to carry lots of single speed trinkets; half-links, cranks, chainring bolts, etc.
I ride single speed on my mtb (On-One Inbred) and you really have to attack the ups.
m

 

First, do you want fixed gear or single speed?
You can't coast on a fixed gear. You can with a single speed. Choosing one or the other will determine what parts you need (tensioners, etc).


There are many conversion kits out there if you want to go the single speed route. You can use your existing wheels if you decide to go that way.

Do a search on Amazon for single speed conversion kits, there are a lot out there. Also have a look at the SS/FG forum here, there is a lot of info there.