{"id":3111,"date":"2023-03-20T13:30:00","date_gmt":"2023-03-20T17:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/?p=3111"},"modified":"2024-02-05T22:40:54","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T03:40:54","slug":"common-mistakes-made-when-building-a-fixie","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/bikes-and-parts\/common-mistakes-made-when-building-a-fixie\/","title":{"rendered":"The 3 Common Mistakes Made when Building a Fixie"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
As an avid fixed-gear cyclist, I recently embarked on a journey to build my first fixed-gear bike from scratch. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience that taught me a lot about the intricacies of these unique bicycles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, in this post, I want to share my knowledge with others, so today, I present to you the six most common mistakes made when building a new fixed-gear bike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, let’s explore the six most common mistakes to avoid when building your fixed-gear bike:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chain tension is crucial for the smooth functioning of a fixed-gear bike. An overly tight chain puts unnecessary stress on the drivetrain and can lead to premature wear, while a loose chain may cause the chain to slip off the chainring and sprocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To avoid this mistake, make sure to properly adjust the rear wheel in the dropouts to achieve the correct chain tension. There should be a slight amount of play in the chain, but not so much that it risks derailing. Investing in a chain tensioner can also help maintain consistent tension as you ride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not all bike components are interchangeable, and using incompatible parts can lead to unsafe riding conditions or even damage to your bike. Key areas to pay attention to include the bottom bracket, headset, and wheelset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When selecting components for your build, ensure that you choose parts that are compatible with your specific frame and fork. For example, the bottom bracket shell width and threading must match the specifications of your frame. Similarly, the headset must be designed to fit the head tube of your frame and the steering tube of your fork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While many fixed-gear bikes are ridden brakeless, some riders choose to add a front or rear brake for added stopping power. If you decide to add brakes to your build, it’s essential to ensure proper alignment and functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n