After dealing with installing a new drivetrain because I had worn the old one out, I was asked by a roommate to reflect on the quality of the bike (he's a Trek guy). Admittedly, it may have been a bit underdesigned/engineered. If I had to do it again, I may have opted for a different brand or model. Allow me to enumerate the issues I've had with my KHS Urban Uno after saying that I have enjoyed riding it as a fixed gear. I should also say that I probably ride it a bit more than average. I think an average of 45-65 miles/week sounds fair.
1. I had a crash because my left crank arm snapped in half. Not sure whose fault that is (I'm ruling myself out)...either Driveline the crankset manufacturer or KHS somehow.
2. I had some squeaking after that crash and at that point I replaced the bottom bracket. It might have been the frame.
3. After the BB, I replaced the pedals because I still had creaking and the left pedal had been damaged in the crash.
4. In order to deal with the creak, I replaced just about everything and we realized it was the frame. I got a new frame and transferred all my components. It does feel like the soul of a bike is in its frame. The new frame just doesn't connect with me like the old one did, but at least it doesn't creak.
5. The bike came as a 3/32" fixed/free setup which I thought was good because I can still use my same chain tool or extra chain parts on all my bikes...well, I don't want to mix my 9 speed chains with this 5-7 speed chain that I'm using for the fixie. Maybe 1/8" would be worth a shot next time I have to replace the drivetrain.
6. The gear ratio of 44/15 (16 free which I never use) was good to start out with. After the crash, I replaced the crankset and got a 48T chainring. I like the new ratio of 48/15 way better, even for climbing.
I have been thinking that a Trek or a Felt might have been a better fixed gear option, but I got a really good price on the KHS Urban Uno. I don't think I'd recommend paying full price for it if you plan on using it a lot.
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2 comments:
On the contrary, I've used my Urban Uno nearly every day over the last 3 years (and have been rear ended by a civic. Well over 4000 miles and 3 tune-ups later I am still as in love with the bike as I was on day one. Awesome bike in every. single. way.
Thanks @G-nation for your input. It goes to show that my experience certainly does not speak for everyone else's.
I also didn't mention in the post above that the awesome looking rear fender had a tendency to snap off because the tab that mounts to the brake bolt kept snapping. I ended up only leaving the front fender attached.
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