Fixed-gear bicycles have enjoyed a resurgence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as simple and effective forms of two-wheeled transportation. Fixed-gear fans like the late bike mechanic and writer Sheldon Brown tout the simplicity, feel and efficiency of the bikes; while detractors often prefer the mechanical advantages of derailleur bikes and the fun of coasting.
Features
The fixed-gear bike has one sprocket on the rear-wheel hub, which rotates backward when you pedal backward and forward when you pedal forward. No coasting is possible on a fixed-gear bike, except by lifting your legs above the pedals. You can slow or even stop your fixed-gear bicycle without the use of separate brakes, by forcibly slowing the movement of the pedals. These bikes have only one gear--made up of one sprocket in the back and one chain ring in the front. As a result, the chain must be precisely tensioned for the cranks to function properly.
Mechanical Benefits
A fixed-gear bicycle has fewer parts and weighs less than an equivalent bicycle with multiple speeds. It lacks derailleurs, shifters, a freewheel and multiple chain rings; some riders leave brakes off altogether, preferring to use only leg power. There are fewer parts to maintain or repair. Because you must keep pedaling at all times, fixed-gear bikes offer a greater workout.
Feel
Fixed-gear riders often speak highly of the stronger connection they feel between themselves and the bike, and the meditative nature of riding a bicycle that requires more of your attention during the ride. Richard Risemburg, writing for Bicycle Fixation, finds that riding a fixed-gear bike seems more natural than riding a bike with a freewheel.
Community
Some riders enjoy the feeling of community among fixed-gear enthusiasts, including their own style, bike shops, websites, fashions and events. As of 2010, fixed-gear bikes are very visibly popular among young adults, especially those who are part of the hipster subculture.
Problems
If you ride in a hilly area, you may find that riding a fixed-gear bike puts too much strain on your knees. Uphill riding often requires you to get out of your seat and stand on the pedals to keep moving forward, rather than shift gears to stay in your seat as you would on a derailleur bicycle. Downhill riding without brakes requires you to exert tremendous force on the pedals to stop, and you need some skill to prevent your bike from skidding. Many jurisdictions require fixed-gear bicycles to have at least a front brake for safety reasons.
Expert Insight
Bike mechanic Buck Olen, interviewed by "Metroactive" writer Gabe Meline, noted that fixed-gear riders should start slow, with a low gear ratio for climbing hills and a front brake for stopping. Olen advises that you to keep your chain well oiled and expect to have to replace your rear tire more frequently as a result of skid stops.
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