The 6 Best singlespeed conversion tensioners (2023 reviews)

The features department is where cyclingdeal singlespeed conversion tensioner truly manages to shine. If you have vertical dropouts & need a chain tensioner, this one is worth considering. This chain tensioner mounts right onto your derailleur hanger to provide a simple, effective and adjustable way to tension a single speed system. It fits single ( chain width 3/32" only, not 1/8") and multi-speed chains. This will only work a frame that already has a derailleur hanger on it, mostly for mountain bikes with vertical dropouts that don’t allow for chain tension adjustment.

This should be included with all bikes of the single gear variety that have vertical dropouts. It comes in a range of spacer size's allowing you to get a perfect chain line. It works excellent when converting a 21 speed to a one speed after removing the rear gear shifter and installing this chain tensioner. This is just to keep your chain right if you decide to remove all the gears and replace it with the single one.

Why We Like This:

Good conversion from mutiple gear to single gearing
Adjustable idler shaft allowed for proper chain alignment
Works on flat & downhill emtb rides
Hybrid bike with mid-drive 1, 500 watt electric gearmotor

Best for pump track: DMR singlespeed conversion Tensioner

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The dmr singlespeed conversion tensioner is specially designed for your daily usage and has all useful features. It is superior to spring loaded devices utilizing a pulley and cage. It works with quick release drop outs. It is mounted with a qr axle. It’s easy to bolt on and adjustments are a snap with a 5mm hex wrench. Its Strong construction gives an extra piece of mind while blasting thru peanut butter mud.

It is easy to bolt on and adjustments are a snap with a 5mm hex wrench.

Why We Like This:

Helps converting to single speed simple
Enables single speed on vertical drop outs
New and hot release

Best for situations: Shimano singlespeed conversion Tensioner

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We know from years of feedback from readers, customers and amazon sellers, what most people want in a convenient and appropriate tensioner. The shimano singlespeed conversion tensioner is exactly that - it's a simple tensioner that hits all the right notes. If you are using a single speed cassette kit with spacers it works great. It doesn't look as clean as your typical single speed tensioner. The chain tensioner is installed where a rear derailleur goes, and it should fit your bike from an installation stand pint. It can also be used in recumbent drivelines to take up extra chain and as an idler.

This one holds really tight. It is great for single speed bike conversions. The tensioner is well made, though it has limited control over lateral positioning.

Why We Like This:

Great tension and super easy setup
Application to multi-speed hubs with single or multiple front rings is good
A great piece of equipment that is essential for a single speed bike conversion

Best for multi conversion: Paul singlespeed conversion Tensioner

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Best part: paul singlespeed conversion tensioner costs comparatively low and it is available to ship in 24 hours. It is superior to single pulley products because it affords more chain wrap around the rear sprocket when converting a vertical drop-out bike to a single speed or multi-chainwheel configuration, up to a 20 tooth difference. It functions just like the jockey wheels on your derailleur to keep tension on your chain. It is designed to shift on purpose, and once installed it doesn't rattle or jiggle around at all.

The bolt that mounts the tensioner has spacers that can be removed/added to adjust the chainline. The geometry is such that the whole assembly is compact and very low-profile. It feels well made and substantial, though you pay for the quality. It is easy to install.

Why We Like This:

Terrific chain tensioner yet for all its tension
Great chain tensioner for single speed frames
An elegant, handcrafted altenative to a $12 derailleur

Best for Single Speed conversions: Mwave singlespeed conversion Tensioner

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Mwave offers a variety of tensioner for personal choice and yet maintaining quality in all the variants. It offers a full range of products for cyclists with high technical demands and who are searching for innovative, high-quality materials. Whether you measure in ounces or liters, m-wave has the size and style water bottle you are looking for. It can be adjusted to match chain line and angle. From the handlebar to the saddle and all points in between, m-wave has a bag that suits your needs.

The m-wave alloy chain tensioner for single speed bikes keeps your chain tight and frame safe from damage. It is backed by german engineering and design which includes a high-quality and high standard of control. It can be used by passionate cyclists who attach importance to technical products.

Why We Like This:

Delivers what they promise
Good brand reputation

Best value for money: SE Racing singlespeed conversion Tensioner

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The se racing singlespeed conversion tensioner is the best cost-effective tensioner on the market today. These should work on most single speed bikes. Then, this only keeps the chain tight.

Why We Like This: