single speed flow
Posted on August 25, 2004
Filed Under bikes, mountain biking
Tonight was my first ride on my new single-speed set-up. I converted my 9-speed hub, using spacers where the cassette would be, just to test it out, to make sure this is what I want to do. After tonight, I know I won’t be going back.
Wow! One theme that sticks out in my mind is liberation. I had an idea what to expect from single-speeding: tougher climbs; more cautious, thoughtful riding; keeping the momentum. What I wasn’t prepared for was how quickly I felt freed from thinking about speeds and gears. I was focusing on the trail, not on the bike.
I know everyone has different riding styles. After 11 years of mountain biking, it was exhilarating to experience something new that reaffirmed what I’ve known all along. To me, finding that flow is more fun than anything else about mountain biking.

