What wheels do I need?

Matt Waterman

I have bought a jump frame. Its a "Blunt - Slalom". I plan to build the bike up myself as a project and to learn as much as I can. I am a beginner to bike mechanics and would benefit from any advice.

I plan to use a single disk brake on the rear. So I know I need disk compatible wheels, but apart from that I don't know what to look out for. I want to make the bike single speed as well. Also people keep talking about freewheel. What does that mean?

Thanks
Matt.

cooldad

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/freewheels.html

If you intend to build a bike, you may want to read up a bit.

RowCycle

Matt Waterman wrote:

I want to make the bike single speed as well. Also people keep talking about freewheel. What does that mean?

Thanks
Matt.

There are two types of single speed - fixed and freewheel, both have only one cog.

Fixed means that as you turn your pedals (forwards or backwards) the rear wheel turns (forwards or backwards).

Freewheel means that the bike can travel forwards without you having to pedal, like most bikes.

nicklouse

RowCycle wrote:

Matt Waterman wrote:

I want to make the bike single speed as well. Also people keep talking about freewheel. What does that mean?

Thanks
Matt.

There are two types of single speed - fixed and freewheel, both have only one cog.

and one that has a cassette free hub or one that has a cassette free hub and SS kit.


but to sum up. you need a wheel to fit your fork (whatever you get) and One to fit your frame see what fits and then see what flavour you want.

but for the Rear I would say a Halo DJD hub will do.

Matt Waterman

So basically any wheel would fit?
And fixed or freewheel is just up to my personal preference?
and any wheel can be converted to single speed?

cooldad

You won't be able to jump with a fixed gear. In fact you won't be able to ride it offroad - you can't stop pedalling.

Matt Waterman

I just noticed these wheels on the website.
Are they the sort of thing that would be ok?

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=12787974

nicklouse

maybe. you would need a suitable fork. but they are not really suitable for what you state you want to build.

A "jump" bike.