Magic Gear Tips for Single Speed?

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Smurfy

Naturist Smurf
I know my chainstay length, and want to use this calculator
http://eehouse.org/fixin/formfmu.php

How much slack do I need to allow for the slight eccentricity that always seems to be present in chain rings and sprockets? Would a calculation showing my chainstays are 1.5mm too short be ok? I don't want it to bind and wreck the wheel or BB bearings. How long can I expect it to last off-road before the chain wears and ruins my magic gear?
 

fossyant

Ride It Like You Stole It!
Location
South Manchester
You'll know if the chain is too tight, it will make a grumbling noise. You want just enough slack to move the chain up and down by an inch or so. You'll need a very slight amount of slack, enough to slightly move the cranks without the wheel moving.

You will feel a tight chain as soon as you start to pedal.
 

DaveS

Active Member
Location
Suffolk UK
Assuming your magic gear calculation is correct you can get away with a chain stay about 1mm shorter. Don't forget to use a new chain.
 

Old Plodder

Living at the top of a steep 2 mile climb
For a single speed, as against a fixed, you should have about half an inch of slack in your chain, any more & it may jump off.
Chain stretch will be dependent on how & where you ride, but if it stretches an eigth of an inch over a 12 inch section, it needs replacing.
 
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