1x Conversion Advice

[KonaSpeed]

I recently purchased a 2014 Kona Kahuna Deluxe. I listed specs below.

After never using the small chainring and wanting to de-clutter, I’ve decided to go for the 1x conversion. (I’m on the east coast riding mostly SC,NC, GA)

I have a couple questions:

1. I have to purchase a RD with clutch (I understand this to be the best option for ensuring no chain issues) Do I simply purchase the Deore Shadow Plus, or should I upgrade to SLX or XT? Money is not an issue, but I’m not a racer or anything so no point in upgrading just to upgrade. What makes sense based on other bike specs?

2. Is the 32t narrow wide the most common entry-point to the 1x conversion, or should I look at larger 34, 36t, etc.??

FRAME MATERIAL Kona Race Light 6061 Aluminum Butted
SIZES 15", 17", 19", 21"
REAR SHOCK n/a
FORK RockShox Recon Gold TK Solo Air 100mm Tapered QR15
CRANKARMS Shimano Deore
CHAINRINGS 24/38t
B/B Shimano Deore
PEDALS Wellgo Platform
CHAIN KMC X10
FREEWHEEL Shimano Deore 11-36t 10 spd
CHAINGUIDE n/a
F/D Shimano Deore
R/D Shimano Deore
SHIFTERS Shimano Deore
BRAKE CALIPERS Shimano Deore
FRONT BRAKE ROTOR Shimano Deore 180mm (centerlock)
REAR BRAKE ROTOR Shimano Deore 160mm (centerlock)
BRAKE LEVERS Shimano Deore
HEADSET FSA No.57B-1
HANDLEBAR Kona XC/BC Riser
STEM Kona XC/Road
SEATPOST Kona Double Clamp w/offset
SEAT CLAMP Kona Clamp
GRIPS Kona Race Light LOG
SADDLE WTB Volt Sport
FRONT HUB Shimano Deore QR15
REAR HUB Shimano Deore
SPOKES Stainless 14g
RIMS WTB ST i19 TCS
FRONT TIRE Maxxis Ikon 29×2.2" Folding
REAR TIRE Maxxis Ikon 29×2.2" Folding
PAINT COLOR Matt Charcoal w/White, Cyan & Grey
EXTRAS n/a

[singlecoil]

seems like most guys I know just put a narrow wide on the front and call it a day. Number of teeth is totally up to you, whatever you feel comfortable with. Ex. you may want a 34t for your front, but me doing other things with my bike and being a different person, chose to ride a 25t in the front and a 10t in the back (single speed). Gearing is all about the ratios, if I was you, I’d decide which of the front gears you use now you like more and decide if you want more or less teeth… Like if you have a 36t and a 28t in your front and decide to go single chain ring in front, I’d find something between the two personally, like a 32t. Again, it’s pretty dependant on what you like, how you ride and all that.

[Bob Norris]

I went with a 1X10 set up this year,, 32 on the front and added a 42t wolfstooth on the back. Hardly ever use the 42 but its there instead of the small front chain ring. AWESOME setup, ditched the front defailer and shifter,, added a left dropper and Im good to go

To get the ratio right, you will just have to ride and adjust. If you are getting the narrow wide, it goes up to a 38 but the bash guard is fitted to a 36. Most people I have spoke to use 36 for that reason, I have a 38 and will probably move to 36. For the rear, I have 15 on for daily rides, but hold 12,16,18 on standby in case I have a specific destination in mind. Personally I have rode all over eastern NC and VA with 38 x15. Would not try that out west though. If you are in need of a rear conversion kit, wheelsmfg .com has two great options and the godspeed tensioner off Amazon is fairly decent. Also, make sure the front ring gear you select will clear your frame, converted my buddy’s Specialized Rockhopper and 36 was the biggest that fits.

[JBX]

I would go with shadow plus xt. I had deore shawdow plus and broke the clutch on 2, I went xt with no issues.
A narrow wide 32-36 depending on your climbing prowess
With this setup no guide is needed, enjoy
Plus you lose a pound in weight

[Author]

Posts