Single Speed

Is it difficult to convert a single speed bike to a regular road bike?

I am in love with single speed bikes, and it's perfect for getting around my college campus. However, the bike I am looking has a very nice Kestrel frame and in the future I might want to get into competitive cycling...so spawns my question: is it possible/difficult to convert the single speed into a regular 10 speed cycle? Thanks!

The cost of converting a bike designed for single speed to multi speed could be prohibitive, and it might not even be possible. If the rear spacing is too narrow, a road wheel would not fit, and if the rear dropouts are not the right type, it might not be possible to install a rear derailleur. If the seat tube is not round, a clamp on type derailleur won't fit. The frame you choose will decide if you can convert. In any case, the cost of buying all the parts for the conversion might be more than a suitable road bike, and once you converted you would no longer have your single speed bike. Best way: sell the single speed, and buy the road bike

---