 |
Today I finally got around to installing the Shimano SF-MX30 16T freewheel on the Bianchi D.I.S.S., replacing the 18T that was there. This takes the gear ratio from 32:18 (1.778:1) to 32:16 (2:1), which should be nice for flatter single track stuff where I’d end up practically spinning out. Hill climbs may be difficult, but hopefully I’ll still be able to make it. If I can’t I guess I can just go back to the 18T.
Since a threaded rear hub is required to use a freewheel like this, I’m tempted to get a track cog and lockring to try it as a fixed-gear mountain bike. This could go very, very wrong, though.
While fitting the freewheel I ended up cleaning up the drivetrain, washing the chain in solvent and then re-lubricating it. After the winter riding it was pretty grimy and needed a bit of work. After cleaning it up I tried out the Park Tool CC-3 which, as can be seen here, nestles into the chain to show if it is beyond 0.75% or 1% stretched. As the 0.75% side didn’t fit into the chain, it’s just fine to continue using.
