Image via Complex Original
Intro
In recent years, the fixed-gear bicycle has exploded in popularity. Traditionally the simplest form of a bicycle, with the least moving parts, the fixed-gear bike carries an elegance in its classic, minimalist design. Its clean lines are uncluttered by things like brake cables or derailleurs. Fixed-gear bikes are also much easier to maintain than bikes with gears and brakes, and their reliable simplicity makes them tremendously enjoyable to ride. Pedal to make the bike move, pedal more slowly to slow down. There's nothing else to it.
Sadly, the fixed-gear bike is often considered more of a fashion accessory than a bicycle. Many a fixed-gear bike lives out its life in a bleak stillness as a mere decoration on the wall of a fancy modern condo. However, a lot of fixed-gear bikes don't have it so easy, and they are more than up for the job. A big part of their surge in popularity owes to the messengers around the world who favor their easy-to-maintain, durable design.
If you're shopping for a fixed gear bike, you will have no shortage of selection. You can find bikes ranging from the bottom of the barrel, China-made department store brands for under $200, to the master-craftsmen American-made custom models that are as much art as bike. The range is staggering. If you are looking for a fixed-gear bike to ride, follow these tips.
Gears
10. Gears
Complex Says: The "fixed" in "fixed gear" comes from the rear sprocket, or cog, being "fixed" into place on the rear wheel. That means that if the back wheel is spinning, then the bike is pedaling. You can't coast on the bike. If you are moving, you will be pedaling. Your legs provide locomotion for the bike. But slowing down your pedaling also slows down the bike. If you're new to fixed gears, you will feel the strain on the leg muscles needed for deceleration, and it may take time to get comfortable with the nonstop pedaling. With time, though, the natural rhythm of your cadence and the constant feedback on the bike's speed that you feel through your legs will make the bicycle seem like an extension of you.
If you're unsure of the fixed commitment, Natalie Goforth from Fast Folks Cyclery in Austin, Texas, points out that many bikes have flip-flop rear hubs. This common yet overlooked feature on many fixed-gear bikes can be your back-up plan if riding "fixed" turns out to be more than you can handle. Many fixed-gear bikes come with a rear hub that can accommodate a fixed cog on one side and a threaded-on freewheel on the other. By adding a simply installed freewheel, a flip-flop hub gives you the ability to easily convert a fixed-gear bike into a lazy downhill coasting machine. Simply remove the rear wheel and flip it around. It's worth checking into.
Valves
9. Pump
Complex Says: Keeping your tires properly inflated will make your bike more fun to ride and help prevent flats. You'll need to add air regularly to your bike tires, so you should have a pump handy with the proper adapter to inflate your tires.
Your tire tubes will have either Schreader or Presta valve stems. Schreader is the valve that you will find on a car tire, and Presta is the favored bike valve. You can buy an inexpensive adapter so that you can inflate a Presta valve with a Schreader pump. This comes in handy if you ever need to air up at a gas station. Overall, though, having a bike pump with a Presta valve hole and air gauge is the way to go. You can buy small pumps to carry with you on rides, or just get a simple floor pump.
Lights and Locks
8. Lights and Locks
Complex Says: If you've found the bike, don't forget the essential accessories. And we're not talking about massive messenger bags and flipped-up brim cycling caps. If you're riding at night, you should have a headlight and taillight set. If you are going to leave your bike outside, your bike will need a lock.
There are many bike lights to choose from. You should use them so that drivers in cars can see you. But you can also get bright headlights that illuminate the road for you. Consider how easy it is to remove and carry the lights with you, because lights are prime targets for theft. Bike locks come in many different configurations. As a general rule, stay away from cable locks, as they are easy to cut. Bulky chain locks or U-locks are the most secure. Where you are planning to leave the bike unattended will be the major factor in deciding what quality lock you need. A small easily stowed U-lock is most cyclists' favorite.
Cost
7. Cost
Complex Says: It's easy to fall in love with a gorgeous fixed-gear bike for all the wrong reasons. Giving yourself a mandatory break from a commissioned salesman is a good tactic to catch your breath and insure that you are making the practical choice and staying within your budget.
Quality
6. Quality
Complex Says: The quality of a bike will affect how often you are working on your bike (or bringing it to a bike shop), as opposed to riding it. Price plays a big factor in this. Lower-quality bike frames tend to be made from high tensile steel and can be heavy. Low-quality tires will get more flats, and cheap wheels won't stay straight and smooth for long. Budget chains can be outright dangerous on a fixed-gear bike, since they are effectively the bike's braking system. If your wallet allows, look for bikes with some sort of flat protected tires, a brand-name 1/8-inch chain, and a chromoly or aluminum frame.
Saddle
5. Saddle
Complex Says: Let's face it: if the seat hurts, you won't want to sit on it. Less expensive bikes often cut corners by using cheap, uncomfortable seats. Even high-quality bikes with expensive saddles may still be uncomfortable. Since we all have different things going on "down there," a saddle that is comfortable for one person may be pure agony for another. Although the saddle can be the make-it-or-break component when deciding whether or not to go for a bike ride, keep in mind that it's easy to upgrade to a better seat. You owe it to yourself to sit on a bunch of different bikes at the bike shop and figure out what works for you. Seemingly minor adjustments to a seat angle can make a world of difference. As a general rule, start with the top of your seat as level as possible and make adjustments from there.
Sizing
4. Sizing
Complex Says: Without a doubt, one of the most critical factors in your bike-buying decision is size. If the bike doesn't fit, you won't be comfortable. After that initial new bike buzz wears off, you won't want to ride it. A good bike shop should be able to help you find the right size. You should test ride the bike and ask yourself if you'll be cozy in the bike's riding position for lengthy periods. Does the bike feel good to you? Are your wrists going to get sore in that handlebar position? Keep in mind that you can make many minor adjustments to customize the bike. Adjusting the height and position of the handlebars and seat are both free and simple to do. Don't leave the store with a new bike without properly adjusting these elements.
Tires
3. Tires
Complex Says: Quality tires are important to keep any bike rolling. Tires with some sort of flat protection (like a kevlar belt or thick casing) will cost you more, but will pay for themselves by preventing flats and frustration. Tire width will greatly affect the ride of a bike as well.
If you plan to ride on rough concrete, or even dirt paths, you'll want a wider tire. If speed and efficiency is what you're after, you'll want a narrower tire. The range of tire width you can use will be determined by your bike's frame and fork. Traditional track racing bikes will allow only for a limited range of width. Some have a maximum tire clearance of only 23mm. Other modern fixed-gear bikes use super-wide 44mm tires.
Fixed-gear bikes make an additional demand on tires, as skidding is often the best way to slow down. (It also can be addictive fun!) Tires designed specifically for fixed gears will have extra-thick treads or special rubber compounds to increase tire life. When you're bike shopping, check the quality of the tires and what range of tire size will fit the bike. And consider a tire upgrade if needed.
Brakes
2. Brakes
Complex Says: Brakes on a fixed-gear bike can ruin the simplistic aesthetic and be a tad "uncool" in the fixed-gear world. However, brakes should be a serious consideration for obvious reasons. In time, you will be able to stop quickly using just the power of your legs. But for safety's sake, it's a good idea to look for a bike with at least one "emergency" brake on it. Give yourself a backup plan, until your skill and confidence level reach the point when braking and skidding with the power of your legs is second nature. Also, take note that many cities are beginning to enforce laws that mandate a working brake on your bicycle.
Pedal Straps
1. Pedal Straps
Complex Says: When riding a fixed-gear bike without brakes, you should have pedal straps. Although having your feet strapped down to the pedals can be intimidating for a new rider, pedal straps make stopping quickly much easier. This is an important feature that should not be overlooked.