Chains

Hello all,
Basically undergoing a conversion and trying to keep it as cheap as possible, got a flip flop rear hub with both sides 16T

Now i know ill be needing a new chain for these but will a 1/8" and/or a 3/32" chain work with my original crank set which wasnt originally single speed?

Also why would one choose a 1/8" chain over a 3/32" chaim and vice versa?

Cheers

You would have easily found these in the search, but ill tell you anyway.

Either chain will work with your chainring.

If your fixed sprocket is 1/8 size, you need a 1/8 chain. (normal width for track, 3speed and bmx bikes)

If your fixed sprocket is 3/32 (standard width for 8 speed deraillieur bikes) you can use eihter a 3/32 chain or a 1/8 chain. Would make more sense to use 3/32 as it would be lighter.

1/8 chains are thicker, so stronger and stiffer. Which is why track bikes, bmx's and dependable cheap low maintenance hub-gear bikes use them. More metal is the simplest way to make a chain stronger.

a 3/32 chain on a SS/fixed bike would also be fine, this is what everyone riding SS mtb's uses. Just try not to get the cheapest chain you can find when using a 3/32 for fixed riding.

I did have a quick search but it didnt return much, thanks for the reply.

Im not sure of the sizing of my fixed cog, but on the paclet of my Shimano freewheel it says i can use either. So i can use a 1/8" on both but a 3/32" will only fit a 3/32" cog?

Thanks

If in doubt go 1/8, or just take the sprocket with you when you go buy the chain.

A 1/8" chain isnt stronger if its identical except for width eg KMC 510 hx vrs 610hx, 1/8 chainrings are stiffer and the teeth are stronger than 3/32.
comparing two equaly geared drivechains , the 1/8 will have its load spread out more, same torque but extra metal on metal so less wear/deformation of teeth.