Why Single Speed?

Sometimes I think I have A.D.D. and I have a hard time just being idle. My mind is always thinking of something. About one year ago I started riding my aluminum frame hard tail mountain bike around town. I normally road on the street, not on mountain bike trails. Six months ago I decided to start looking for an old road bike (10 speed or similar) to ride around town. I found one that cost me a twelve pack of beer.

I had heard of single speed bikes, and thought the twelve pack bike, 1970's Panasonic 10 speed, would be the perfect single speed. So, I paid $30 and did it. Well, the bike was a little tall for my inseam and I was close to hurting myself on many occasions, if you know what I mean.

Since spring is almost here in Wyoming, I started getting the itch for another road bike to convert to a single speed. This time I found an awesome bike. A 1974 Schwinn 10 speed. Great shape and the perfect size. So, I purchased from a local (cut out the shipping cost) and started my project.
I added a little extra money into a 16 tooth freewheel, and aluminum wheels with new tires. I picked up a slightly used seat, and wrapped my bars with some spare bar tape.

I used the old bottom bracket, crank, drop bar, and seat post.

I only have $150 into the bike, and absolutely love it.

But why single speed? I am not sure. I have a couple friends who kept telling me how enjoyable it was. How simplistic the style of a single speed is. Maybe it is because my mind focuses on certain things, and I have a hard time moving on until my mind satisfies the desire. So, maybe that is the answer for the single speed. I need to have a project and interest to keep me sane through the day to day activities.

But anyway, I love the bike, it is awesome to ride around town, and is much nicer than I could have ever wished for.

If you don't like single speeds, that is just fine. But I hope you have the pleasure that I have had, being able to do a project that interest you. Being able to talk with friends and collaborate on how to do the project. I think it is more about the journey than the real product, even though the product is satisfying now, someday it may not be.

I hope you can relate, share your comments, or even give me advice.

With Love,

WyoCowboy