Compatibility

[admin]

We have tried to make the FreeRadical compatible with as many bikes as possible. Everything goes together the smoothest with a 26” hardtail MTB with V-brakes and a 135mm over-locknut dimension. There is a separate 700c version for touring, cross and city bikes.

For more information, contact us and we’ll be happy to research a specific frame’s compatibility.

[bradmn]

Will the 700cc work with the Surley 29" single speed Monkey?
I realize it will need thinner than standard MTB tires.
Thanks...
Brad

[El Duké]

Hi,
I have an '06 Novara Fusion. It has a Shimano Nexus 8-speed internally geared hub with a built in drum brake. Would it be possible to use the FreeRadical 700c with it?

Thanks!

[kismert]

El Duké,

The Fusion, with it's Nexus 8-speed hub, should work just fine.

For more, see topic: How 'bout internal hubs, drum brakes, and singlespeeds?

Let us know how your conversion turns out.

[flying_bicycle]

Would the 26" Xtracycle Free Radical be compatible with Surly's Long Haul Trucker? (My size, 46cm, would require a 26" wheel).

Thanks!

Rebecca

[kismert]

flying_bicycle,

I've long thought that the Long Haul Trucker would make an ideal platform for an Xtracycle. It has the 135mm OLD and standard rear dropouts that will easily accomodate the Boss Hogs.

For a more in-depth report, see: Surly LHT & Xtracycle?

It looks like you are already a member of the rootsradicals Yahoo group, so if you do go ahead with a LHT + Xtra build, post some photos there, and show us your results!

-Ken

[thizzlamic]

i have an ol'skool cannondale conversion to a single speed with a chain tensioner, 700 velocities and nashbar brakes. I would REALLY like to get one of these conversions (especially since the bakfiets are so EXPENSIVE) and i just want to make sure this is right for me...should i convert over to the disc brake system? can i use this on a single speed or should i gear the rear for when i haul heavy loads? would i have to switch to a bigger tire (as in thickness) in the rear? why can't i post a new topic?

[cman]

I would gear it for the heavy loads (over 100lbs). Mine is a 9 spd. w/ a single up front.

[matsolino]

Hello,

I got an old 650cc cannondale triathlon bike which I converted into a citybike, much like this one:



I've built a 26inch wheel with internal hub nexus 7speed, retro pedal brake
on it (not shown on picture underneath) . Is this compatible with the FreeRadical kit?

[cman]

You will have a tough time adjusting the chain tension which is imperative with a coaster brake. Is the Nexus on the bike currently? How do you tension it since you cannot use a chain tensioner?

In order to use a internal hub, you would need a bike frame that has horizantal dropouts or use a fancy elipitical bottom bracket (Phil Wood?) so you could create tension in the chain.

[matsolino]

I do have a chain-tensioner fitted with my nexus inter-7 which makes the coaster brake behave sluggish


But the xtracycle freeradical kit comes with horizontal dropouts don't they? I can't really tell from the image, but I was hoping there is a way to adjust the chain tension somewhere?


Other than that I was hoping my cannondale is not to narrow to fit the xtracycle...

[cman]

Yes the horizontal dropouts on the Xtra should work to tighten your chain.

Two concerns with the frame. First you will need to purchase an extra FAP plate since you have no chainstay bridge. Hopefully you wont have to modifiy/shorten the Xtra tongue as your clearance from the wheel to seatpost tube is tighter than most bikes.

Next is your rear spacing. It should be okay if the frame is newer. The problem if it needs to be spread it will be hard because of the aluminum. Check your Space between dropouts- should measure 128-135mm
http://xtracycle.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=52

If it is shorter than 128 you will have to spread the frame and respace/new axle on your Nexus wheel.

I cant see your brakes, but you will have to use a Vbrakes or disc for the rear.

[matsolino]

Thanks for the info, cman - you're my man!
The OLD is 127mm on my HUB, hopefully I can use Spacer Washers to make it fit... and hopefully I can get enough tension in my chain to use the coaster brake on my Nexus... I may need to spread my aluminium frame by 1-2mm, should be no problems at all?

So I am finally ready to assemble what is to become the first(?) Xtracycle in Paris. I only hope my kit arrives before x-mas...

[todd]

i'm not so sure about this project. first, the freerad does *not* have horizontal dropouts for chain tensioning. even if you manage to get the right tension by luck or careful chainring/cog selection, the lower run of chain will likely slap the bottom of the front bridge unless you use a spring tensioner. also the amount of flex in the frame/freerad over that long chain run means that the chain will snap taut and hang loose in normal use. i'm not a fan of coaster brakes under normal circumstances, but i think they are particularly ill-suited in this context.

[cman]

Matsolino-

Sorry I mispoke about the dropouts. As Todd pointed out they are vertical. Monday morning wasn't thinkin.