#17 in Bike drivetrain components
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Reddit mentions of Shimano MF-TZ31 Tourney Freewheel (14-34T Mega 7 Speed)
Sentiment score: 2
Reddit mentions: 4
We found 4 Reddit mentions of Shimano MF-TZ31 Tourney Freewheel (14-34T Mega 7 Speed). Here are the top ones.
or
Indexed shifter compatibleShimano Reference Number: MF-TZ31
Specs:
| Color | Brown/Black |
| Height | 2 inches |
| Length | 7.5 inches |
| Number of items | 1 |
| Release date | March 2012 |
| Size | 14-34T |
| Weight | 1 pounds |
| Width | 6 inches |
You could get a freewheel like this [Shimano MF-TZ31 Tourney Freewheel (14-34T Mega 7 Speed)] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003RLNOKC). There's usually a big step between gears 1 and 2, but singular to what you have now. Why bigger is usually on 10+ speed bikes which isn't worth the upgrade in your case.
i think this would not need a new derailleur, although you may need a new chain (and it's a good idea to change chain and freewheel together anyway).
changing a freewheel is a little tricky - look for videos on youtube (search for something like "change freewheel without chainwhip"). fit the new chain to the right length (don't just copy the old length - see here).
there's not much difference in feel between a larger rear sprocket and a smaller front one if the ratio is the same. it does feel slightly different (i am not sure why, but one or the other feels slightly smoother, i think just from the different vibrations you get as the chain moves over the different size gears). but in general you can trust the maths.
[edit: deleted a second option, as it was a cassette, not a freewheel]
>When I took it in for servicing they slapped a new chain on it, that was just last week so I'd assume that's good.
Absolutely. In fact, that fits with my freewheel theory: chains and the gears wear out together, especially as the chain gets more worn. A new chain and worn cassette can result in the skipping you described. Some bike shops insist on changing both at the same time, just in case.
> I've done chain replacements before so I know how to do that too. What information do I need to make sure I get a cassette/freewheel part that fits my bike?
If the freewheel is original, I bet it's this one. Any 7 speed freewheel will work, but it's easiest if you match the model with what you have so the great ratios are the same, you only need one tool, and the chain can stay the same length. The model should be printed on it somewhere.
Before you spend money on a cassette, it's worth making sure it's not a gear indexing issue either. That's free, just a quick twist of the inline adjuster.
Take the back wheel off and spin the freewheel (the group of cogs) if they feel gritty are hard to spin, you can replace them...they should still click when they spin and lock with the wheel when spun in on direction, but if they dont feel particularly smooth, abouth $25 will get you the freewheel and the tool to replace it.