How to Convert a Double Chainring to a Single

Converting a double chain-ring bicycle to a single reduces the gearing on the bike which is handy when using bicycles for very specific purposes such as downhill, freeride or track riding. In most cases, when converting down from a double to a single, removing the larger ring on the cranks and chain-ring cluster allows you an efficient transition with the gearing. Be sure to take the time to adjust the chain length after changing the rings to ensure smooth shifts and a fully functioning drivetrain.

Things You'll Need

  • Bike work stand
  • 8mm Hex wrench
  • 5mm Hex wrench
  • Chain tool
  • Chain link pins
  • Crank remover tool (spanner)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put the bicycle into the stand and secure it down. Insert the chain tool over one link on the chain and turn the tool's handle while it is over the link pin, pushing it out and opening the chain. Remove the chain.

    • 2

      Insert the 8mm hex wrenches into the center crank bolts in the center of the chain-rings and cranks. Hold one crank in one hand and use opposite force with the other to loosen and then unscrew the center crank bolts.

    • 3

      Insert the spanner teeth into the housings on the inner rings of the cranks. Pull off the cranks.

    • 4

      Unscrew the double chain-ring using a 5mm hex wrench on the small chain-ring retaining pins. Pull off the ring you do not wish on the bike.

    • 5

      Place the cranks back onto the bicycle and insert the 8mm hex wrenches into the screws and tighten the cranks back onto the spline and bicycle.

    • 6

      Run the chain back up and around the chain ring and cassette at the rear wheel (the gear cluster). Bring the open ends of the chain together and hold it together around the gears. If there is slack on the chain more than 4mm, remove a link from the chain with the chain tool. Pull the chain together over the drivetrain (gears and chain ring) and tighten the chain together again with a new link pin and the chain tool.

    • 7

      Crank the pedals by hand and check the chain is moving over the single chain-ring smoothly. Once satisfied, remove the bike and go enjoy your single-chain ring ride.