To start off, a fixed gear bicycle is a single speed bicycle. It has a drivetrain with no freewheel mechanism. This means that whenever the wheel is in motion so are the pedals. A fixed gear or ‘fixie’ is simplistic yet efficient. Overall this translates to much less work and effort from the rider and a lighter and more manoeuvrable machine. We may have already sold you, but there are numerous other reasons to consider a fixed gear bicycle.
Cost Effective
Fixed gear bicycles are, number one, less expensive to purchase. They’re usually less expensive as they have fewer components and because they’re typically made of less expensive materials.
This cost-effectiveness continues if you run into any issues, as fixes are generally easier and repairs are less expensive. Overall, fewer components equates to less to repairs. With regular maintenance to your fixie, you can expect minimal repair costs, about the only things that will need to be replaced, are the brake pads.
Weight
Fixed gear bicycles typically weigh 1-2 pounds less than the identical geared bike. This is due to the fact that geared bicycles include more, heavier components. A couple of pounds may not seem like a huge deal but if city riding is your bicycle’s main use, why add on any unnecessary weight?
The Ride
Riding a fixed gear bicycle is so unique. Think of driving a car with a manual transmission instead of an automatic, it’s just more real. The ride is also way more about finding a flow since decelerating requires effort. The rider must then learn to negotiate obstacles not by altering speed but by altering direction. This allows for a smooth ride and one that slightly challenges the rider. Achieving this groove is rewarding and just plain fun.
Happy cycling!
Our bikes are designed in Brooklyn—by our in-house team in collaboration with members of our Board of Advisors, a select group of industry experts—and manufactured in China and Taiwan.
