Designed in London for the urban rider, fixie bikes, also known as fixed gear bicycles, are celebrated for their blend of comfort, reliability, and responsive handling. These beautiful machines are rapidly becoming the preferred mode of transport for those seeking an environmentally conscious and hassle-free way to navigate city streets. You might be wondering, why are so many people choosing a fixie road bike over a traditional geared bicycle?
The Uncomplicated Advantage of Fixed Gear Bikes
The primary distinction of a fixie bicycle lies, unsurprisingly, in the absence of gears. For some, this might initially raise concerns. However, after your first ride on a fixed gear bike, you’ll likely discover that gears often introduce unnecessary complexity. Instead of constantly adjusting levers and pondering whether you’re in the optimal gear, you can simply relax and immerse yourself in your journey. Fixie bikes are engineered to ride efficiently, offering swift acceleration and brisk cruising speeds with minimal fuss. It’s less effort, allowing for more headspace to enjoy your surroundings and the ride itself. Whether you’re commuting to work, zipping around the city, or embarking on an urban adventure, a single speed bike becomes your ideal travel companion.
Low Maintenance and High Durability of Fixie Bikes
Geared bikes are notorious for their demanding maintenance schedules. This is where the classic fixie bike truly shines. By eliminating gears, the potential maintenance issues are significantly reduced. Typically, a puncture or a loose chain will be the most significant problems you might encounter. Furthermore, the frame of a fixie is predominantly constructed from steel, a material renowned for its exceptional durability, strength, and versatility in urban cycling environments. This robust construction ensures your fixed gear bicycle can withstand the rigors of daily city riding.
Effective Braking on Your Fixie Bike
A common question among those new to fixie bikes is how to brake effectively. It’s important to note that quality fixed gear bikes, like those from Steed, are equipped with both front and rear brakes. While some fixie designs might omit a rear brake, and in rare cases, even all brakes, the standard setup includes reliable braking systems for safety. The key to mastering braking on a fixie is understanding how to reverse the momentum you’ve built up while riding, effectively slowing you down when needed. For in-depth guidance, our blog post on how to stop effectively on a fixie bike offers expert tips to quickly elevate your braking skills.
For more detailed exploration into the world of fixed gear bikes, be sure to read our blog post about the main differences of fixed gear bikes. Discover if the simplicity and efficiency of a fixie bike are the perfect match for your urban riding needs.
