Image via Complex Original
If it hasn't become abundantly clear by now, whether by reading about them or actually trying one out, fixed-gear bikes aren't for everyone. And that's OK. Not only has the trend passed (which, by the way, doesn't make them any less viable a form of transportation), but there's a lot to be said for being able to shift. Or coast.
So whether you're looking to supplement your fixed gear or outright replace it, we looked around to find some of the best alternatives. And whether your budget is $600 or $6,000, we've got you covered. Here's 10 Awesome Bikes to Replace Your Fixed Gear.
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Fairdale Coaster
MSRP: $450
The closest thing to a fixed gear without actually being one, the Fairdale Coaster is equipped with a coaster brake (hence the name) just like any little kids' bike. It's also got BMX-style three-piece cranks, braze-ons for a bottle cage, and comes in chrome. And like a brakeless fixed gear, no cables to mess up the clean lines.
Bianchi Milano
MSRP: $500
Want that old-world Italian charm without springing for a Pista? The base $500 Milano is a relaxed city bike with an alloy frame, eight speeds and full fenders for all-weather riding. Plus, it's available in Bianchi's classic Celeste.
Globe Daily 2
MSRP: $700
The Globe Daily is exactly what the name implies—a daily rider suited for anyplace in the world. Like the Milano, it features an aluminum frame, eight speeds and full fenders. But with 28c tires and slightly steeper geometry, it invites a more aggressive ride. Well, unless there's a six-pack in the basket.
Giant Seek 1
MSRP: $1,075
Seek and ye shall find, or something like that. The Giant Seek 1 has an internally geared eight-speed rear hub and hydraulic disc brakes for all-weather performance—but no fenders—and the freshest fat tires this side of a monster truck rally. It does have the requisite braze-ons for racks and fenders, so it should be quite easy to convert to a do-everything kind of ride.
SE Santa Cruz Big Ripper 29"
MSRP: $780
SE blew up the PK Ripper! No, not like that, but they did enlarge the classic Floval (flat oval) aluminum frame and Landing Gear fork to accept 29" wheels, big enough for even the biggest kid who lusted after (or had) a PK Ripper as a kid. This version is a collaboration with Santa Cruz skateboards, featuring Jim Phillips graphics and a matching skateboard deck. It's only a single-speed (as befitting its BMX roots), but this is the bike Tom Hanks' character would have commuted on in BIG.
Cannondale Hooligan 1
MSRP: $980
Essentially a folding bike that doesn't fold, the Cannondale Hooligan has 20" wheels, an aluminum frame based on one of Cannondale's iconic '90s mountain bike designs, a rigid Lefty fork, hydraulic discs and a three-speed hub (let's be honest, you don't really need more gears than that). Lightweight and nimble, it also won't take up the whole kitchen.
Fairdale Taj
MSRP: $600
Another oversized BMX bike like the Big Ripper, the Taj draws more from the '70s when plate gussets (and chrome forks) were a sign of quality. It's a 26", so it's a little easier to throw around than a 29", but it still won't replace an actual 20" (or 24") as an everyday thrasher. This is a commuter for those of us who still feel the need to jump every curb cut. You know who you are.
Fuji Touring
MSRP: $890
The Fuji Touring is, well, a touring bike. It's got 27 speeds, a rear rack, city-friendly 32c tires, and is fully fender ready. A mix of mountain and road componentry means it's tough. And it's just a set of locking skewers away from being a do-everything kind of ride.
Globe Work 3
MSRP: $850
DO WORK. The Globe Work series isn't as flashy as the Daily or as sporty as the Roll, but it certainly gets the job done. Meant to be more utilitarian, the Work series is about serviceability and no-nonsense styling. The Work 3 is the top-of-the-line model, with full fenders, an internally geared seven-speed hub, and all of the necessary braze-ons.
Specialized Turbo
MSRP: $5,900
OK, fine, six grand is a bit excessive for a commuter—or for any bike at all if you're not completely obsessed. But the Specialized Turbo isn't just any bike. Built from the ground up, it's an electric-assist bike that features a motor in the rear hub that essentially doubles your power output. Which means pedal fast enough to go 15, and do 30. (It's limited to 30, so don't get any ideas of doing 55 on the expressway.) This is the type of bike to go directly from apartment to office in a hurry. And bring it inside both places. Just make sure it's not a walkup at either place, as the Turbo weighs in around 50 pounds.