Fixed Bikes Cool
Fixed bikes are cool. This family enjoying the sun In Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire.
Many cyclists like the simplicity and aesthetics of a fixed / single speed bike. With less equipment there is less to go wrong.
The great advantage of a fixed bike is that the power from drive train is converted directly to wheel, there is no intermediary gear mechanism.
Although it may seem strange at first, there is a greater feeling of control as you pedals are effectively linked to the speed of the bike.
Many hill climbers like to use fixed bikes because they are lighter without gears and also the power transmission is felt to be marginally better.
The disadvantage of fixed gear bikes are that they are not very practical for hilly routes. With one choice of gear you may struggle up any serious climb. Also since your pedals are locked to the wheels it means you cannot free wheel, but have to keep spinning the pedals even down hill. However, this means the pedalling action can effectively double up as a braking mechanism.
Single speed bikes are like fixed bikes but with a freewheel enabling you to glide down hill without having to pedal.
Fixed Bikes are used on the track where riders don’t have brakes but just use the direct transmission between pedal and wheel to control the speed.
Related
Single speed bikes Evans Cycles
Single Speed bikes at Wiggle
