FAQ
Which size frame do I need?
Some sizing guidelines on the basis of height are offered on the tech & sizing page, which should put you in the right ball park. However it is virtually impossible to correctly size someone for a frame without having detailed knowledge of that person’s riding preferences and a whole host of physical attributes. This process is one best achieved by consulting either a Singular dealer or an experienced bike-fitter in your area. Similarly for ‘what stem length/bar width/crank length etc do I need?’ - this is best determined as part of the fitting process.
Eccentric Bottom Bracket FAQs
Everything EBB
How does the EBB work?
The Eccentric Bottom Bracket (EBB) is a fairly simple device, long used in tandems to tension the timing chain connecting the front and rear sets of cranks. It makes sense to employ the same idea to a derailleur-less bicycle, especially so where a disc brake is use and thus it’s beneficial to keep the rear wheel in one fixed position. Whether fixed-gear, singlespeed, or with an internally geared hub – the EBB is a neat, elegant and hassle free solution. The frame’s bottom bracket shell is oversized and fitted with an insert which has the bottom bracket thread milled off centre. Therefore rotating the insert allows you to tension the chain.
Aren't EBB's known for having issues?
As above, EBB’s have long been used in tandems and have proven to be a functional and reliable system. Our EBB inserts are CNC milled to our specifications in Taiwan. Singulars have used them in over 1500 frames now and rarely have any issues been encountered. Where they have they are easily solved with correct assembly and/or a bit of cleaning and greasing. Like any metal on metal part over time grease can become displaced and creaks can develop. This is easily solved by removing a crank arm, sliding the whole EBB unit out, cleaning, greasing and popping it back in – a 5 minute job, see below for details.
How do I adjust the EBB?
The EBB uses the British threaded 68mm wide bottom bracket standard. It will accept any bottom bracket and crank made to that specification. Correct initial installation of the EBB is essential to its reliable long term function. The inside of the EBB shell should be given a thin layer of heavy grease. The insert should rotate by hand to allow correct tensioning of the chain. If it is a little snug then a 5mm allen key can be inserted in the hole in the insert, then the cranks turned to lever against the allen key and rotate the whole assembly. The set screws on the bottom of the shell should then be torqued to between 4 and 6 NM – do not over-tighten as it can deform the shell.
What do I need to do to maintain the EBB?
As with any metal on metal component, it is necessary to perform some regular maintenance to ensure continuing smooth and reliable function. We recommend periodically removing the ebb from the frame to clean and lubricate. This can be done by removing one crank-arm (and also a cup if external type bb) and sliding it out – if it’s a bit stuck, rotating, spraying some penetrating lube and a few taps with a rubber mallet may be required to get it out. Thoroughly clean the ebb and inside the shell. Remove the ebb bolts completely and clean and grease. Then cover the interior of the shell and the ebb with a thin layer of grease and re-assemble. Tension the chain (or just put the ebb in the desired position if using a derailleur) and torque the bolts to 4-6nm. The regularity with which this should need doing depends very much on the conditions you ride in. The first step is to just try to rotate the ebb in the frame. If it moves easily and smoothly i
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Where are your Steel frames made?
Our frames are designed in the UK and made by a family owned and operated factory in Taiwan of over 30 years standing. They are specialists in the production of steel frames only and produce high end frames for many well known brands.
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What about the Titanium ones?
Similarly, our titanium frames are designed here in the UK and fabricated by a small specialist titanium builder in Taiwan.
Are any other colours available?
All frames offered in one standard colour scheme only.
Replacement downtube decals and headbadges are also available should you wish to arrange your own re-finishing. Please contact us for further details.
What length bottom bracket axle do I need?
Most of our production frames use a British threaded bottom bracket shell in a width of either 68 or 73mm (100mm for the Puffin). Required bottom bracket axle length is dependent on crank type and required chain line. You should consult with the manufacturer or supplier of your cranks to determine what is correct. As a general rule you will not be able to fit road cranks to any of our frames designed for off-road use with the exception of the Peregrine and Kite cyclocross/gravel frames.