
How to Tension a Single-Speed Bike Chain Safely
Set single-speed chain tension at the drivetrain's tightest point, keep the wheel centered, and use the bicycle maker's axle-retention procedure.
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Set single-speed chain tension at the drivetrain's tightest point, keep the wheel centered, and use the bicycle maker's axle-retention procedure.

A single-speed freewheel lets you coast. A fixed gear keeps the pedals turning whenever the rear wheel moves, which changes control, safety, and learning.

Start near 2:1 for a 26-inch off-road bike, then adjust for wheel size, hills, cadence, load, and terrain. Lower ratios climb more easily.

Can your single-speed bike safely convert to fixed gear? Check the hub, lockring, dropouts, chainline, chain tension, axle security, and working brakes first.

The CyclingDeal FK-02 is the best simple cassette-hub conversion kit. Compare it with the FK-03 tensioner bundle and check compatibility before buying.