Hello,
I've always been curious about single speeds. I like the idea, especialy
the simplicity, low maintenance and even the smartarse factor of being able
to keep up with geared bikes. A few hours ago I really got to jump in the
deep end.
Tonights dirt crit was a handicap which pretty much means no chance for the
A-graders to place due to the very harsh time/lap penalties. I thought I'd
try something different and offered to swap bikes with my mate who rides a
fully rigid single speed.
My friend showed up late so I didn't even get to do a practice lap. To be
honest the whole single speed aspect paled in comparison to the fully rigid
setup.
Anything moderatly uphill was perfectly suited to this single speed, flats
weren't too bad except the frantic spinning did wear me out a little
quicker. The technical sections weren't a problem, I had a little less
torque out of the tight spots but still plenty to keep moving. The only
really limiting points were on the downhills where I just had to coast. At
least that gave me a chance to stretch a little and get some water.
I still managed to pull off the 9th fastest lap of 55 riders. My friend on
my geared full suspension bike seemed to be a lot more slowed down by the
bike swap than I was. So at the end of the day I have to agree that an SS
can still move at a decent pace. A few fast guys ride them as an excuse to
stay in B-grade but short of a very very fast rider I couldn't see them
winning in A-grade.
I'd consider getting one as a commuter but at the end of the day I like the
only thing to be limiting my climbing to be my traction and my
cruising/descending limited only by my fitness.
Well that and the fact that a lot of SS riders sound like they're selling
Amway or something :-)
Cheers,
Duncan.