Single-gear bicycles, often called singlespeeds or fixed-gear bikes, are picking up the cadence as more bicycle enthusiasts discover the joy, simplicity and minimalism that comes with them, especially off the road and on the trail. Along with obvious differences between singlespeeds and geared bikes, there are surprising elements that many cyclists don't suspect, but the benefits are clear: Singlespeeds can help improve your cycling performance.
Simplicity
Singlespeeds are bare-bones bicycles. Unlike geared bikes, generally with two shifters that operate two derailleurs, guiding the chain around multiple chainrings and allowing the bike to shift, singlespeeds have only one fixed gear. This drivetrain, the transmission of a bicycle, is composed of only two chainrings, one in front and one in back. In addition to reducing weight, technical complexity and mechanical maintenance, singlespeeds are considered easier for cyclists, who don't have to think about multiple gears when riding.
Price
While contemporary mountain bikes are rising in price, largely due to materials and expensive frame designs, singlespeeds are cheap in comparison. There are high-end singlespeeds on the market, but at a fraction of the cost of a top mountain or road bike with 20 or more gears. The lack of features, along with concerns about maintaining them, leave singlespeeds at the lower end of the price spectrum. Fewer moving parts also mean fewer repairs.
Gear Ratios
If you're planning to ride a singlespeed off road, then choosing the best gear ratio for your compatibility is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Geared bikes can shift repeatedly, constantly changing gear ratios to adapt to the terrain and grade, such as lower gears to climb and higher gears to increase speed. Singlespeeders choose a specific gear ratio for their riding style and terrain. This usually is a 2-to-1 ratio. This means for every two teeth on the front chainring, there is one on the rear chainring. For example, a common selection for rolling, fast terrain would be a 32x16. This represents a 32-tooth sprocket, or chainring, up front and a 16-tooth in the rear.
Skills
Cyclists learn to use momentum, body language and the natural terrain to help carry them over challenging conditions when riding fixed-gear bikes. They must read the trail or environment and stay dedicated to the flow of motion and cadence of pedaling. Geared riders may relax or rest on flats, stalling before a climb. Singlespeeders may elect to use the easier segments of the trail to increase momentum
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