A little while ago, I asked how to add gears to this bike that I was gifted for free. The consensus was that adding a derailleur wasn't possible, but thanks to the suggestion of u/senorhappytaco, I managed to find a way!
After some research, I found a Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub that would fit into my frame, and got a local wheel builder to rebuild the existing rear wheel around it. As the hub has a coaster brake, it meant I could remove the rear brake and use the existing fittings to run the gear cable.
It's still far from perfect. The saddle likes to re-adjust itself mid-ride, which is always fun. Those handlebars were AliExpress specials and they're kind of terrifying, so I'm going to swap them out for something a little more solid. The gear ratios are also still a bit longer than I'd like, so I'm thinking a new front sprocket might help with that too. Also, I'm having a hell of a time getting used to a coaster brake. The braking itself isn't too bad, but I hate not being able to get the pedals back into a nice position when I come to a stop.
All in all, this little foray into bicycle maintenance has been a fun journey, even if I could probably have had a much nicer bike with the money it's cost me so far!
by LEGENDARY_AXE
4 Comments
Geared hubs are fun.
I have a 5-speed Sturmey Archer already built up and ready to go into my fixed wheel frame. 119 mm lock nit to lock nut width makes it perfect for track bike frames.
Slick
They grow up so fast :,)
Great looking bike! I love the fork on it. The cranks have a chunky look that I like as well, even if I wouldn’t generally pick a chunky looking crankset for my builds lol