by Jennifer Eblin

Created on: February 18, 2008

Just because you have a single speed bike doesn't mean that you can't have a little speed. In fact, there is a growing trend in the biking world of people buying single speed bikes, and then customizing them with new features to create their dream bike. By the time they finish customizing, they can have a bike that is capable of the same things as other people who spent two, or three times as much money.

In previous years, those who stuck with their single speed bikes were usually forced to rely on parts that weren't quite up to par with multi-speed bikes. A lot of the parts were second hand, and had come off of older bikes that had been parted out, or involved in big wrecks. As more riders began to switch to single speed bikes, or work on single speed bikes, the biking world noticed. Suddenly it became much easier to find customizable parts for a single speed bike, all created by the biking industry.

The SRAM Noir 1.1 is the ultimate in terms of single speed bike accessories. This crank features a carbon fiber chainguard that is unidirectional. Try twisting it, spinning it, or simply turning it in any direction and you will definitely be impressed. You also get alloy bolts that are pretty lightweight as to not add any additional or excessive weight to your bike once it is installed. This lightweight appeal extends to the 32-tooth alloy chainring. The spine itself is aluminum with a carbon coating. Carbon alone might make it a little too heavy for a single speed bike, but combining carbon with aluminum makes it more lightweight. Not only does this crank look good, but it is also pretty stiff, which is definitely a plus for cyclists.

The SRAM Noir 1.1 retails for around $438, and by all indications that seems like a great deal. Similar cranks, including those sold by the same company sell for $500 and up. These cranks can sometimes add extra weight to the bike, and many are not compatible with a single speed bike. If you think that sounds like an awful lot of money, just think of how much you'll save by not upgrading to a brand new bike. Look for the SRAM Noir 1.1 in biking stores now.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.