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Recommend a single-speed FW

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Old 06-01-22, 04:17 PM
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kroozer 
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Recommend a single-speed FW

Is there a good single-speed (1/8") freewheel anybody could recommend? I bought one of those cheap Chinese ones, but the two shallow holes for removal don't inspire me to actually mount it, I'm afraid I'll never be able to get it off. I'd like something I could use a proper removal tool on. Thanks.
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Old 06-01-22, 04:19 PM
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I used a cheap chinese one on one bike but it had really good removal splines....sorry no idea the brand but keep looking!


(Not the one I got but it was similar - uses a standard removal tool and is pretty cheap at least compared to the Shimano ones. Also Sturmey Archer seems to make a reasonable cost one)....

https://www.primeauvelo.com/en_ca/ac...es_ratio=19402

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Old 06-01-22, 04:21 PM
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I’ve used several different less expensive Chinese models but then almost always go back to Shimano MX series SS freewheels. They’re quieter and more reliable.
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Old 06-01-22, 05:05 PM
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What's the threading? All sorts of Regina on ebay.
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Old 06-01-22, 05:16 PM
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Look for an ACS freewheel
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Old 06-01-22, 05:18 PM
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Who is stocking the revived Simplex? they introduced a range of single cog freewheels, they appeared quality.
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Old 06-01-22, 05:21 PM
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Shimano SF-1200, 20T, on the ‘zon for $29 right now. I bought 2!
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Old 06-01-22, 05:54 PM
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I'm with Bwilli on this get and ACS they were/are a BMX parts manufacturer and they will take abuse. Smiles, MH
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Old 06-01-22, 10:18 PM
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White Industries freewheels are in another league. And priced accordingly.

https://www.whiteind.com/product-cat...xed-gear-cogs/

I think they're worth every penny.
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Old 06-02-22, 06:53 AM
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The hub is an old BH Airlite 40-hole with a steel barrel and huge alloy flanges. It is a "flip-flop" model, with threading on both sides. I assume it uses "standard" threading, whatever that may be. I think people used to put a freewheel on one side and a fixed cog on the other. Each side has two sets of threads, I assume for a lock ring. I actually have 2 cheap Chinese FW's from different companies, one threads easily on both sides, while the other doesn't go on either. I am finally getting around to putting together my 1949 Stallard, which will be a single-speed racer with tubular wheels. This is all new territory for me, I might try a fixed/free combo.
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Old 06-02-22, 07:47 AM
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I've been using a Shimano for about 15 years now, all weather riding. I've squirted oil in it maybe 2-3 times. Not really sure it needed it, but felt like the right thing to do.
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Old 06-02-22, 07:54 AM
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That hub is a Fixed/Fixed hub but you can thread on a freewheel, I really suggest that you get a quality one, either an ACS or that Shimano that was mentioned. There are freewheels out there that will just about break the bank but an ACS PAWS will get you there, they are their middle level freewheel. The ACS Crossfire is a bit better and will cost about $20. Get a 3/32 freewheel and you can run either size chain, make sure your chain ring is the same size as your chain. 1/8 or 3/32.
Sounds like a fun bike.
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Old 06-02-22, 09:00 AM
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Sturmey Archer makes a decent one, but it's pretty thick, which may be a good or bad thing depending on your chainline. For my last SS build, it was perfect, as I wanted to increase chainline a bit to better match up with the crank. The SA accomplished by moving it outboard by a few millimeters.
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Old 06-02-22, 12:26 PM
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Originally Posted by kroozer
The hub is an old BH Airlite 40-hole with a steel barrel and huge alloy flanges. It is a "flip-flop" model, with threading on both sides. I assume it uses "standard" threading, whatever that may be. I think people used to put a freewheel on one side and a fixed cog on the other. Each side has two sets of threads, I assume for a lock ring. I actually have 2 cheap Chinese FW's from different companies, one threads easily on both sides, while the other doesn't go on either. I am finally getting around to putting together my 1949 Stallard, which will be a single-speed racer with tubular wheels. This is all new territory for me, I might try a fixed/free combo.
Let me look in the stash...I may have a period correct Phillips available if you're interested. I'll pm.
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Old 06-02-22, 01:25 PM
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I tried a cheap Chinese one from Amazon, Sunsomething, and it fell appart in less than 2 month of daily winter commute. I've had a Shimano one since and no issue
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Old 06-02-22, 09:24 PM
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Splurge on a White Industries freewheel. The precision, longevity, reliability far out way the cost. I have used two and have many miles on them. I have and currently use White industries hubs and used to have their fix gear/freewheel hub. They make high quality parts.
Just my recommendation.
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