[bjanga]

I keep losing the chain on my freeride hardtail, and instead of slapping on a chainguide I am thinking about setting up a singlespeed. My frame has vertical dropouts, I have the two-ring Hone cranks (4-bolt) and a 9speed 135mm QR/9mm axle hub.

I know some of you are running 25-12, that looks like a good ratio to me.

If I run this chain, will I be fine without a bashgaurd (I do not clip rocks too often, but it does happen, especially if I am near concrete ledges )
http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/CH409D09-Kmc+Z410+Single+Speed+Chain.aspx

I was also looking at this tensioner:
http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/CH409Z16-Dmr+Sts+Single-Speed+Chain+Tensioner.aspx

Suggestions for parts or retailers? I am looking for a grind/bash worthy chain, cog with a wide base so I do not tear up my hub, a ring that will not bend too easily and will fit on 4-bolt cranks, and a tensioner that does not use a spring. Thanks for reading.

 

[fiddy_ryder]

your best bet is to just run 32-16/15 with a single speed type chain ring. they single speed ones dont have ramps and pins for shifting, and are typically a bit burlier than regular shift rings. for the rear cog, its hard to find em with a wide base unless you want to cough up a few more bucks for something like a chris king or a surly. i may have a chris king 15t stainless i could sell you, retail is like 40, $20 and its yours. i also got a salsa single speed ring. 32t..