Just got a new cheapish gravel bike. It actually rides really well. But hate the 2x claris on it. I was wondering if I could remove the front derailleur and put a narrow wide chainring on the front and keep the same gears at the back. I know what my ratios will be and it’s fine, on this bike I never pedal above 14mph and always coast going downhill. All my MatB are 1x and really don’t enjoy the front derailleur rub.
I have positioned the front derailleur so the large ring doesn’t even work but so I don’t get any rub on smaller ring. But would just like to have 1 chainring upfront. Is it ok to do this?
Thank You
by newbiker321
1 Comment
Yes, what you’re describing is possible. You can run a 1x chainring with a small cassette in the back. Someone might make a goofy narrow wide meant to fit onto those cranks, but I’m not familiar. Which means you will need new cranks that can accept a narrow wide chainring. New cranks means possibly a new bottom bracket as well. I’m not sure the juice is worth the squeeze with this project, especially if you’re limiting your gear range so dramatically. Is there a particular reason you want to go 1x?