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Currently 1x9 (34 x 11-32) but I properly mangled the rear derailleur doing a silly thing today.
What would I need?
Strong singlespeed chain (one less thing to worry about), HG freewheel singlespeed conversion kit, new chainwheel, chain tensioner (or rear derailleur if I have one to sacrifice).
Any recommendations for sprocket size to start singlespeeding with on for a 27.5" hardtail? It will be mostly for hooning around while commuting in East Kent - so no big and steep hills (but a few short sharp climbs).
Doesn't look likely to be able to replace my SLX 9 speed shadow derailleur (remember when XT Shadow 9spd was sometimes £37 on CRC!?). Might have a working 10speed chainset I could use, not sure how good the sprockets are though. Don't really want to use SLX 11speed for commuting. Or just go singlespeed
Your current chain will be fine, if it's not ruined.
I'd go with an 18 tooth on the back or 17 if you feel strong. If the cassette is ok, I'd fit a tensioner and choose your gear. If it's well tensioned it should stay put. You can alway change your mind then.
No need for any fancy parts unless you want to lose weight from the bike.
Fair point! Thanks. I probably would have needed to replace the chain/cassette/chainring in a few months anyway, but that sounds like a good way to experiment to see if I really do want to commit to singlespeed on it.
I run 34:18 on a 27.5x2.6. That's fairly close to the old standard starting point of 2:1 on a 26.
This is my normal mountain biking setup though, not commuting. So long as the climbs are short, it's good for the kind of climbs where if they were much steeper I might just as well walk because I'd be about the same speed with gears. If by commuting you mean there's a fair bit of road and your riding is mostly flat, you might find this ratio a bit low, but it's a good starting point. I tend to ride it on the small but generally fairly steep hills of Devon, and found it pretty ideal for the South Downs Way too.