Single speed gear equivalent

[mobi]

What is the gear ratio for single speed bikes? Do all of them have same gear?

If I compare this to a standard MTB having 3x7 gears, which combination will correspond to single speed bike's gear?

 

[raleighnut]

What is the gear ratio for single speed bikes? Do all of them have same gear?

If I compare this to a standard MTB having 3x7 gears, which combination will correspond to single speed bike's gear?

You can put anything you like on a SS bike from velodrome speeds to SS mountain bikes

 

[Canrider]

ISTR the general rule for SS MTB is in the region of 2:1?

 

[Brandane]

Depends on the number of teeth on your front ring and rear sprocket. They are variable, and for sale in different sizes (number of teeth). Want a high gear? Fit a large front ring and a small rear sprocket. Low gear = small front/large rear. Same principle as your MTB., except that obviously you have an instant choice available.

Most single speeds will have a compromise gear ratio fitted to them, something like the middle front ring on your MTB (probably about 39 teeth) and middle sprocket of your cassette (about 18 teeth).

 

[Sharky]

Recommend studying a set of gear tables. The Sheldon Brown site has one, then you can work out what the different combinations of front/rear sizes equate to in inches. If you are thinking that your N+1 will be a single speed, count the teeth on the MTB gears you find most comfortable, work out the equivalent size in inches, then you can work out what you will need on the single speed.

Typically for commute/leisure, it will be 65-68 inches
For racing(time trials) it is likely to be over 85". But time trials are usually on flattish terrain and the pain doesn't last for much more than an hour.
But all depends on the terrain and your fitness. Once you get a SS, you will spend hours and a few pence experimenting with different combinations to get your ideal ratio. Lots of fun.

Keith

 

[Chris S]

What is the gear ratio for single speed bikes? Do all of them have same gear?

If I compare this to a standard MTB having 3x7 gears, which combination will correspond to single speed bike's gear?

'Middle' gear on most bikes is typically around 60 inches (number of teeth on front sprocket / number of teeth on rear sprocket X wheel size).
Most of the single speeds that I've come across typically have a gear around this size as well.
Fixed gear bikes are easier to pedal uphill and so usually have slightly higher gearing - often around 70 inches.