How to Change the Gear Ratio on a Beach Cruiser

Riding a bicycle is a fun way to ride around town, get a little exercise or get to work. Although in riding a bike is slower than driving a car, adjusting the gearing of the bike can significantly increase the potential speed of the bike. There are two gears that can be adjusted, the front sprocket called a chain ring, and the rear sprocket. The front gear is the biggest sprocket and will have the most effect on the performance of your Beach Cruiser bike.

Things You'll Need

  • Gloves
  • Allen wrench set
  • Hammer
  • Flat-head screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the gloves on your hands. Pick the bike up and turn it upside down so that the handlebars and seat on the ground. This will make the chain ring easier to pull off the bike.

    • 2

      Use an Allen wrench to remove the chain ring bolt that secures the chain ring to the frame of the bike. This bolt will go through the frame of the bike and into the chain ring. Slide the circular washer off the bolt and save it for installation later.

    • 3

      Insert the flat-head screwdriver into the frame where the chain ring bolt was previously. Lightly tap on the screwdriver with the hammer to push the bearing out of the frame. When the bearing comes out of the frame, the chain ring will also come out.

    • 4

      Remove the chain from the chain ring and set it aside. Depending on the diameter of the new chain ring selected, a new chain may be needed because of the chain not fitting properly.

    • 5

      Pack the frame with a new bearing by slowly and carefully using the hammer to tap it into the frame. A new bearing should be inserted because a bearing can wear out from usage. Slide the circular washer into place on the bearing.

    • 6

      Place the new chain onto the chain ring. Be sure that the teeth are lined up with the teeth in the rear sprocket as well, before trying to install the chain ring.

    • 7

      Slide the new chain ring into place on the frame. The chain ring bolt should slide from the opposite side of the frame, through the frame and into the chain ring. If the bolt has clearance issues, check the new bearing that was installed and adjust as necessary.

    • 8

      Use the Allen wrench to tighten the chain ring bolt. Turn the crank to make sure that everything functions properly.