Although I've seen this kinda thing around I'm taking particular notice this year at the single speed dropouts being used for the long distance bikepacking races. Lots of unique steel dropout solutions that allow for adjustable chain tension. I want something along these lines without having to get a custom frame. Are the frames pictured custom? I know the first pic is but unsure about the others. Any ideas?
by Valuable-Concern7987
8 Comments
Unsure of the second two, but the first looks like a Monē La Roca. He’s doing production frames now so you can actually get one for ~$1300. I have an Esker Japhy and really like the portage dropout system. Lots of good options these days
I dont think any of those are custom frames. The first one looks like a Mone frame, the second is a Buena Onda and the 3rd is a frame from Tulipp bikes
My Soma Juice is cheap, sturdy, bikepacking ready, and has thru-axle SS sliding dropouts. I have it set up singlespeed.
That first one is a Mone.
https://theradavist.com/bailey-newbrey-and-his-tour-divide-2026-mone-single-speed-29er
Rodeo Labs uses sliding dropouts, Revel has them on the El Jefe, Surly has a bunch of bikes that are single-speed able, there are a lot of production options
Plenty of mainstream bikes have sliding dropouts like this. Kona Units and Surly Karate Monkeys have has sliders for decades now, and can be bought singlespeed stock.
Kona unit, esker hayduke, salsa timberjack and salsa Fargo all have adjustable dropouts and are very much accessible production bikes.
As others have said, there are plenty of off the shelf frames with single speed dropouts. Other options include using an eccentric bottom bracket like the one made by Velo Orange or a chain tensioner. Shimano, Paul, Reverse components and many other make tensioners that go onto a normal derailleur mount to keep your chain in line.