[cmd miler]

I'm thinking about simplifying one of my MTBs for urban use. If I convert the 3x9 to a 1x9 can I get away with using the large chainring as an outer guide?

 

[squads]

I prefer a bashguard because it doesn't catch on things like rings do (since they have teeth). Rings also aren't really built for impact and they will bend and warp easily. That said, you can probably manage with the large ring anyway, especially if you get a metal file and grind the teeth down.

 

[Shayne]

Teeth are nice for logs though :thumbsup:
Instant 'traction' even if your wheel is temporairly off the ground.

 

[cmd miler]

Not many logs to worry about on the side walk unless riding after a storm -- urban use only -- sidewalks, bike path, neighborhood, etc. just want the chain to stay on.

 

[Popper252]

Here ya go man: http://www.bbgbashguard.com/Mountainbike.html

14 bucks shipped. They even come in colors if you wanted.
I've been running 1x9 on my bike for almost a year now and love it.
I'll also suggest an n-gear jump stop.

Found here http://www.gvtc.com/~ngear/whatis.html

Keeps the chain from falling off to the inside.

With that setup I haven't dropped a chain in a really long time.

 

[skiracr2fast4u]

i used a hack saw and a dremmel on my 3x9 specialized to make it into a 1x9 .....what i did was cut all the teeth off then dremmel them down a little more even. then a little sandpaper if you really want, im sure you could get by with just a dremmel. this works great for urban, as it acts as a bash guard to protect the chain, or for whatever reason you would like, but doesnt add the weight of one. it also is completely free to do, and there is no need for a new crankset or bashguard. hope this gives you a solution

 

[GrantB]

A front derailleur without a cable and adjusted properly can do the job of the jump stop. Not as clean looking, sure, but whatever. It will also keep the chain from either jumping from to the inside or outside, so unless you expect logs or log sized curbs, you can skip the big ring or bashguard altogether.