Ah, we all love to ride single speed bikes, the more minimalist it looks, the more fun it is to ride one. You won’t have to deal with any sort of multiple gears, and this is what makes these bikes low maintenance making it just right for everyday use. Other than that isn’t it better to triumph by the strength of your muscles than by the artifice of shifters and derailleurs?
Single speed bikes are also known as fixed gear bikes or fixies, so in most of the single speed bikes, you get a two-in-one bike. All you gotta do is flip the rear wheel, and you are good to go by just a quick switch from fixed gear for a connected feel for the road to a freewheel bike for cruising and coasting.
Quick Answer: Top Rated Best Single Speed And Fixed Gear Bikes In 2020
- 6KU Urban Track Single Speed Bike
- Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike
- Pure Fix Premium Fixed Gear Single Speed Bicycle
- Big Shot Track Bikes
- Critical Cycles Classic Single-Speed with Pursuit Bullhorn Bars
- Golden Cycles Single Speed Fixed Gear Bike
- State Bicycle Black Label Fixed Gear Track Bike
- Critical Cycles Harper Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike
- Vilano Rampage Single Speed Road Bike
First off all lets take a look at feature overview of the Best 3 Overall Single Speed Bikes. Afterwards our buying guide and comparison table will help you further to choose the right one for you.
So without any due let’s get started.
Best Single Speed And Fixed Gear Bikes
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Note: Scroll/Swipe Horizontally To View All 3 Picks
For more on bike recommendations, have a look at these popular Wheels Compared guide links: Best Bikes, Best Budget MTBs, Best Bmx Bikes
Single Speed VS Fixed Gear
First of all its important to know the difference between a single speed and a fixed gear bike.
Mechanically, it’s a small difference between a single speed bike and a fixed gear, but it changes the whole scenario of bike riding. It all comes down to the rear hub and how the cog is connected to the drivetrain. Single speed bikes come equipped with a freewheel cog which rotates freely one way but locks up the other. This means when you pump those pedals the cog locks up and when you don’t feel like pedaling the cog rotates freely; it’s similar to a geared bike with only one gear.
On the other hand, ‘Fixies’ also known as fixed gear bikes have no such mechanism. The cog is fixed with the rear hub which means whatever you do if your pedal turns, your cog turns and if the cog turns your wheels also turn. So either you are pedaling backward or forward the rear wheel will turn and in order to stop your bike you have to stop pedaling which locks up the rear wheel and your bikes skids giving you more of connected to the road type of feeling that’s why extreme biking enthusiasts love fixies. Hence, Fixie riders often claim to feel ‘at one with the road’.
Single Speed And Fixed Gear Bikes Reviews
#1. 6KU Urban Track Single Speed Bike
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If you are looking for a lightweight track bike that won’t break the bank! Then the 6KU Urban Track bike is for you. Whether you are purchasing as a starter or as a heavy duty commuter, there’s a lot to love about the bike. 6KU being a big name in the bike manufacturing industry has a goal to produce accessible and affordable bikes with product’s build and designed to handle anything an urban environment can throw at you.
Features
If you are like me, you’ll love the Urban Track’s sleek and minimalistic aesthetics, a frame with an obvious design track to it and flattened tubes. 6KU features a 6061 aluminum alloy frame which is extremely lightweight; weighing only 18-22 pounds depending on the size of the bike. The frame also features a 1 ⅛” alloy fork for some added shock absorption on the bumpy roads.
- Synthetic leather saddle with a sport-style design and minimal padding.
- 3D Forged Alloy 46T Crank
- Sealed cartridge to prevent any dirt and moisture from getting inside.
- 700cc x 25c Kenda tires for improved grip.
- 6KU comes equipped with both front and rear brakes to ensure plenty of stopping power when needed for dense urban areas.
Coming to the riding experience, 6KU really nailed it. It really rides like a true urban fixie. With some increased speed and perfect handling, it flies down the road like no other. The lightweight aluminum frame gives the bike a nimble feel making it very easy to maneuver, and you will feel like getting the most out of each pedal. Other than that like most of the single speed bikes or fixies these days, 6KU also features a flip-flop hub enabling you to ride either fixed or freewheel.
Cons
The pedals are a bit disappointing, and I think 6KU could have done better at this part. They just seem to have a cheap feel to them and are also unnecessarily large. But don’t let this small imperfection stop you from buying this bike because let’s be real nothing is perfect. Still, this bike is really close to perfect which is why it has made to our top recommended list. A bike that can really fly feels quick and rides even quicker, makes you feel more in tune with the road, has incredible pedal efficiency and rhythm, what else do you need!
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#2. Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike
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Pure Cycles Original Fixie is a nice combination of speed, style, and affordability. It’s ideal for those getting back into biking and also for seasonal riders who just want to get a feel for riding fixed. The Urban Fixie road bike starts with a durable, high tensile steel frame with a fork built up to last and features a flip-flop rear hub.
Flip-flop rear hub gives you a choice to ride either fixed or freewheel. So depending upon you, riding fixed gives you an unmatched feeling of being part of the bike and the road, and also helps you to perfect your pedal stroke. On the other hand, riding freewheel enables you to coast and cruise.
Features
The Original series features a Hi-ten Steel frame with integrated chain tensioner dropouts and uses an elegant urban geometry. Being built completely from steel, don’t expect it to be the lightest you’ll encounter, but still very much acceptable weighing only 22-24 pounds. The saddle has a velodrome style which offers a good mix of racing feel and comfort with Pure Cycles alloy 30mm riser handlebar. This allows the rider to ride more upright maintaining an aggressive riding position for the occasional sprint or race.
- 44:16 gear ratio; perfect for urban riding
- 25 KMC Z-410 chain that keeps it all moving
- BMX-style platform pedals
- Standard front ProMax caliper brake
- 700 x 28C Kendra WTB Thickslick tires with 40mm Deep-Dish 32-Hole Rims
All these features team up to give you a very nimble feel in terms of handling hence, taking your riding comfort to the next level.
Cons
The tires are a bit flimsy and will wear out easily if used on urban streets that aren’t as smooth and free of faults, but on a smooth path, it will glide away like the wind. So, all in all, it’s a really good bike for the price and value for the money is through the roof.
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#3. Pure Fix Premium Fixed Gear Single Speed Bicycle
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Like the name, it’s a premium bike with some premium features and will cost you somewhere between $500. But the real question is it worth buying? When you are paying $200 extra! The answer depends on what you plan on doing with the bike and your skill level.
So if you’re ready to take your riding experience to the next level, the Pure Cycles Premium fixie is ready to take you on city streets with its pre-wrapped drop bars and pro series triple-butted 4130 full chromyl frame which is designed to be lighter, stiffer, and faster.
Features
Pure Fix Premium bike is built for people looking for something upgraded and premium right out of the box. Sealed Cartridge bearing hubs keep your wheels rolling smoothly and free from the dust, dirt, and moisture you carry while riding. This really steps up your bearing game. The sealed bottom bracket means spinning your cranks like a dream, and you’ll get most out of each pedal stroke. A sealed headset caps it all off with enhanced maneuverability, ensuring fluid steering and crisp control.
Other than that the bike is packed with premium features like a flip-flop rear hub to give you the flexibility to ride between fixed or freewheel. Specs (16t Freewheel / 15t Fixed Cog). A KMC Z 410 chain with Retro alloy, 46t chainring, Pure Cycles Drome II comfortable saddle that is optimum for long range rides and 700 x 28C Hutchinson Nitro 2 tires with Deep-Dish 25mm 32-Hole Rims.
And most importantly for your safety, the bike features Tektro R315 Alloy Dual Pivot front brake, and for the rear you get coaster brakes. Thanks to the single speed track geometry, the rider’s back will be at 45° to enable you to ride at high speed over longer distances.
Cons
There’s not much to add to the cons section as most of the time mid-range fixies come equipped with the usual Kenda tires that have their own drawbacks, but this Premium fixie has Hutchinson tires which are the best in their class. Hence, over the time you’ll be in love with this bike which is fully decked with its premium features.
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#4. Big Shot Track Bikes
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- Frame: 4130 Chromoly with Race-inspired track geometry
- Gearing: Flip-flop hub
- Handlebars: Bull Horn handle bars
- Wheels & Tires: 43mm Deep V Rims, CST 700c x 28c tires Track tires
- Fork: High Tensile, straight blade with 100 mm spacing
- Brakes: Dual Pivot Caliper brakes
Big Shot hasn’t been in the industry for a long time but in a small period of ten years they’ve made a name for themselves. Big Shot only focus on single-speed bikes that’s why you don’t hear about them a lot. So they only make two types of bikes
- Prime Line Bikes
- Premium Line Bikes
The one we are featuring is Havana, which is one of their Prime Line Bikes
It’s a true street smart fixie that for sure gonna turn some heads around. Big Shot Havana features a 4130 Chromoly frame which is a quite durable and surprisingly lightweight alloy that you don’t find in many of the entry-level fixed gear bikes.
The bike comes with Race track inspired geometry with bull horn handlebars and a thin, sporty style saddle which makes it one of the best single speed bikes in the market. The bike offers you both style and comfort.
Apart from that you’ll get a lower gear ratio with Havana, which is good for a quick start but you do have to pedal a lot to maintain that top speed. For maximum stopping power you get Dual Pivot Caliper brakes both for front and rear which makes it safe and legal for city riding
Cons
There isn’t much to add to the cons section as it delivers exactly what it says on the paper and is worth every single penny that you spend on the bike. The thing that attracts most of the people is the price at which Big Shot listed it. Havana offers the same amount of features that any other high end premium bike would offer and for a price that is about quarter the amount what others are charging to their customers.
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#5. Critical Cycles Classic Single-Speed with Pursuit Bullhorn Bars
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Critical Cycles is known for making reasonably priced mid-line road bikes. This Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed with Pursuit Bullhorn Bars is a cheap alternative to spending a bundle of cash on just taking a spin around the neighborhood. The Pursuit offers a true fixie experience with a cool bullhorn look which was initially very common on the traditional road bikes, and home converted fixies.
Features
There isn’t a lot going on with this bike. The bike comes in with minimal aesthetics and track style frame. Hand-built using high-tensile steel, with horizontal dropouts and a very solid front fork for shock absorption. Despite being built from steel, the Critical Cycles still manages to keep its weight in the low 20s, depending on the frame size you want.
The bike encourages a more aggressive riding style with the 25.44mm bullhorn handlebar and a pista-style saddle. The Pursuit like other bikes on the list also offers both fixed gear and freewheel riding experience which has been made possible through Flip-Flop Rear Hub with Single-Speed 16T Freewheel and Fixed-Gear 16T Cog; paired with a Protek 46T crank and a KMC chain.
Coming to the wheelsets, they are pretty solid with 43mm deep V double wall rims and Wanda City 700 x 23c tires allowing you to have a smooth and agile ride. For braking, the bike only features a rear Promax Brake which is a simple caliper brake which provides enough stopping power needed for tight scenarios, and accurate slowing with ease.
Cons
For the cons section, the bike only features a rear brake so I’ll suggest you to buy a brake for the front wheel too. And there’s also another minor complaint; it’d be nice to have a little longer center section of the handlebars. Other than that if you want to try out a fixie and wanna save some on the green, this is definitely the bike to choose.
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#6. Golden Cycles Single Speed Fixed Gear Bike
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Golden Cycles Fixie is yet another great example of a value-priced single speed fixed gear bike that offers much more than it initially lets on. In general, when compared to other bikes, fixed gears are relatively inexpensive, this particular bike offers as much value for money as you can for just under $200.
Golden Cycles aim to keep all things simple, with a lineup built for the experienced rider and daily commuters. It’s a perfect bike that allows you to ride either fixed or single speed with a perfect combination of speed, style and affordability.
Features
Golden Cycles fixie makes into our list because of its wide range of options to choose from. It features somewhere like 21 different color combinations and is available in 7 different sizes. This bike looks as simple as a fixie should be, and with a standard fixie look, you get a road bike type of frame. The frame and fork are made from High Tensile Steel Fully Tig-Welded to create a smooth, seamless look. Being built from steel, the bike is durable and feels solid enough to take all the beating off from city streets to off-road trails. Depending on the frame size you are getting, the bike weighs around 22-25 pounds.
- A racing style saddle and BMX style rubber grips
- Front and rear radius forged Alloy brakes
- Sealed Bearing with Golden Cycles Alloy, 46T chainring crank
- 46:16 gear ratio
- 700 x 25c Kenda tires with 45mm deep alloy rims.
Your safety is a sure thing with this bike, as it provides Alloy Caliper front and rear brakes, which are controlled by well-placed hand levers that don’t get in the way. And for a cleaner look, the cables are secured on the top tube.
Cons
With just under the $200 mark, there is some room for improvement as the saddle is a little thin in the padding department. So you can imagine how it feels like when you have to ride for long hours and realizing midway that the saddle you are sitting on is no way near comfy. Quite a pain right! So I’ll suggest you upgrade the saddle if you aren’t comfortable with it. Other than that the bike is a masterpiece for the price you are paying.
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#7. State Bicycle Black Label Fixed Gear Track Bike
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- Frame: 6061 Aluminum Aero
- Gearing: Flip-flop hub, 46:14 ratio
- Handlebars: Pista race drop handlebars
- Wheels & Tires: CST 700c X 23 Track Tires with 43mm deep V rims
- Fork: Essor Carbon fork & steer tube
- Brakes: Front & rear rim brakes
State Bicycle Black Label is a not an entry-level fixed gear bike. It’s for more advanced riders who know what they are doing and have a sound idea of riding a fixie. So, those riders who are looking to step up their game and want to move on from an entry level fixie to a more advanced fixed gear bike, then Black Label is the answer.
Black Label is built for tracks, but true Track bikes aren’t meant for urban use. So State Bicycle came up with an idea to make a bike that can go incredibly fast on the tracks but along that it had to be practical enough to be used in urban environment.
So, was State Bicycle able to find that perfect combination of a true track bike and a street bike? Well absolutely YES! The bike does fly and can get fast; as much as it gets.
The bike features an aluminum aero frame that you can only get with high-end premium bikes. The frame is paired with a carbon fork. What happens most of the time is that the front fork is made from the same material with which the frame is built, this adds to the total weight of the bike and makes it heavier. That’s the reason why State Bicycle uses Essor carbon fork that offers better shock absorption down the road and makes it extremely lightweight.
Apart from that, the bike comes in with a rear flip-flop hub to choose between freewheel or riding fixed. The bike also features dual caliper brakes so it’s your choice to keep them or not.
Cons
If you are looking for an affordable entry-level fixie, the price tag on the Black Label could be a big down off for you. The State Bicycle listed it at around $700 – $800. It’s also the most expensive bike on our list. Though it’s really a good bargain for the money when you are paying almost quarter the amount of what some other companies are charging their customers. But again, I wouldn’t recommend it to any one just getting into riding a single speed bike.
Apart from that it’s really a good bike and offers all the features that you can wish for in a fixed gear single speed bike because at the end of the day you get what you pay for!
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#8. Critical Cycles Harper Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike
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Critical Cycles Harper is the fixie you’ve been looking for. It not only looks good enough to please your aesthetic needs but is also lightweight and affordable. Critical Cycles takes quality very seriously. Equipped with fully decked out top-shelf components and a rear flip-flop hub it gives you the freedom to ride it however you like.
It’s a nice entry level bike meant for urban commuting, with sleek looks and sophisticated color palette and silhouette. The Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie comes in 6 different sizes to choose from and is available in more than 10 different colors.
- XS= 43cm
- S= 49cm
- M= 53cm
- L= 57cm
- XL= 60cm
- XXL=61cm
Varying by the different frame sizes and being built completely from steel the bike weighs around 22-25 pounds.
Features
This model by Critical Cycles features a premium hand-built, high-tensile strength steel frame with a front fork to absorb the bumps in the road and is as durable as it can be. Harper also comes in with bar-spin clearance, water bottle mounts, and horizontal steel dropouts. This single speed fixie is perfect for commuting and riding casually around the town.
- Single Speed Track Frame Geometry with barspin clearance & no toe overlap
- Features Pro-Max front and rear brakes
- 4mm riser Pista handlebars with Kraton rubber grips
- NECO Cartridge Bottom Bracket (Preventing any dust and moisture from getting inside)
- 700x23C Kenda Tires with 30mm Super Deep-V double wall rims.
- KMC 1/8” chain
- Critical Cycles Pista Saddle optimum for urban commuting
Other than that the bike also features some nice little extras like the three metric Allen wrenches and a flat wrench to assemble and maintain your bike.
Cons
Unfortunately, Harper missed the mark when it comes to the tires. They do tend to wear out a bit faster than other bikes that we have reviewed lately, so you’ll be replacing them sooner rather than later. But pound for pound, this is one of the least expensive single speed / fixed gear bike on the market that offers riders a solid, reliable, and comfortable riding experience.
So if you are starting out with fixies, I would highly recommend you to get Harper. It’s simple and highly customizable and what else can you get for $200?
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#9. Vilano Rampage Single Speed Road Bike
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- Frame: High tensile steel frame
- Gearing: Flip-flop hub, 46:16 ratio
- Handlebars: Alloy riser handlebar
- Wheels & Tires: 45mm deep V double wall rims, 700c x 28c tires
- Fork:, High tensile steel frame
- Brakes: Front & rear rim brakes
Vilano Rampge is the cheapest fixie on our list or I should rather say the most affordable entry-level single speed bike. The bike is meant to be an urban commuter with a High-ten steel frame having an urban geometry and for some added shock absorption the bike features steel fork.
Rampage emphasizes more on comfort of the rider. So if you are like many people who prefer the smooth riding experience of a steel bike, then Rampage is for you.
Also if you are looking for a fixie to turn heads, then Vilano’s Rampage offers some really good aesthetics and a wide range of colors to choose from. The one you are seeing is the Champagne-Orange. Other color options include:
- Grey/Green
- Matte Black
- Matte Blue
Apart from that, like any other bike on the list this bike also features a flip-flop rear hub paired with a 46T forged alloy crank set. So you can ride it either fixed or freewheel. Along with this, you’ll get 45 mm deep-V double wall rims with matching anodized hubs and 700c x 28c tires. The tires have a minimal amount of tread to it, to give you a smooth riding experience.
Cons
Overall it’s a really good bike, but being built from steel it’s comparatively heavier than a bike with an aluminum frame. So if you live in an area where there are a lot of steep hills then don’t even think of buying this bike. Other than that it offers all the features that you can find in any other bike on the market and is listed for just around $180.
So if you are a seasonal rider and don’t wanna spend much on a bike than Rampage is the best single speed bike that you can get for the money.
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Comparison Table: Best Single Speed Bikes / Fixed Gear Bikes
[table id=7 /]Note: Scroll/Swipe Horizontally To View Full Comparison Table
How to Choose the Best Single Speed and Fixed Gear Bike
Buying a single speed bike is no longer a hipster priority. When compared with geared bikes which require a lot of maintenance and much more. So, for sure it’s an obvious choice for a robust and reliable low maintenance bike with lower costs and high performance.
Well now, you know which are the best single speed bikes and fixed gear bikes in the market, but you need to choose one single bike out of all these bikes. So, how do you choose a bike?
So when choosing a single speed bike, you have to ask yourself these three questions first
- Which type of bike do I need?
- How much should I pay?
- Which type of material is better?
So, without any due let’s find the perfect fixie that will best suit you!
Style of Riding / Type of Bike
So ask yourself where you will mostly be riding your single speed bike? And how you’ll be riding?
So if you are looking for a bike which would be perfect for both short and especially comfortable for longer distances, then you have to look for a Track Inspired Single Speed bike. A bike which is designed along the lines of a racing bike, which is perfect for any type of short or long distance cycling. This type of bikes ride efficiently on asphalt and are perfect for use in both urban and countryside areas.
If this is the case, you have four options to choose from I’ll line them up on the basis of my priority, top to bottom.
Daily Commute | City Commute | Short to Long Distance
- Urban Track Single Speed Bike By 6KU
- Havana Prime Line Track Bike By Big Shot Bikes
- Black Label Fixed Gear Track Bike By State Bicycle
- Classic Single-Speed Bike By Critical Cycles
- Single Speed Fixed Gear Bike By Golden Cycles
If you are looking to buy a bike especially to ride in urban areas, then a bike with an Urban Geometry frame would be the best option for you. These types of bikes are perfect when you ride in a city, and your commute is shorter. They focus more on the comfort of the rider than how much fast it can go.
Here you have four options to choose from; again I’ll line them up from my top priority to downwards.
City Commute | Short Distance | Comfort
- Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike By Pure Fix
- Premium Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike By Pure Fix
- Harper Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike By Critical Cycles
- Rampage Single Speed Road Bike By Vilano
With that said let’s move onto our next question, which would further help you to choose the one you need.
Price
This is the most important question that you need to ask yourself is how much you are willing to pay? Because at the end of the day you get what you pay for
So, I’ll characterize them in three categories
Around $200 (Over All Best Budget Single Speed Bike)
If you are limited by the budget and need something that would offer you all the features of a single speed bike then you can choose from these four fixies, I’ll be lining them up from cheapest to onwards. Note: These bikes might be a little heavier which would only matter in climbing hills and while accelerating your bike, other than that you are good to go
Around $300 & Above (Over All Best Single Speed Bikes)
So, if your budget is somewhere from $250 – $350 then these Single speed bikes are the best you can get. The value what these bikes offer you is just insane. I would highly recommend anyone with a limited budget to stretch it a bit and go for any of these three options.
- Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike
- 6KU Urban Track Single Speed Bike
- Big Shot Havana Prime Line Track Bike
Around $400 & Above (Overall Best Premium Single Speed Bikes)
Now, anything around $500 will come equipped with premium features and will start treating you with some extras. You have two options here to choose from. The first one is around $500 and the second is around $700-$800
With that said let’s move onto our last and final question which frame material should you get?
Material
Now choosing the frame material is totally up to your personal preference. Some people prefer steel frames because they offer you a more smooth riding experience as sometimes lighter bikes can be stiffer. I personally prefer steel frame over aluminum because it offers more shock absorption and is perfect as a city commuter. But if you want to ride fast and need that light bike which you can take for a track day or need that acceleration to climb up hills then maybe the aluminum bike is for you.
Now, I’ll enlist the bikes for you with their geometry, material and the price with which they are listed.
[table id=17 /]Now, most you would have a sound idea of which single speed bike is best for you, but for those who are still confused and need to know a little bit more about features and components of a single speed bike. Then I have a buyer’s guide for them.
Others who wanna Jump to the conclusion, they are more than OK to skip through buyers guide.
At the end of the day my last piece of advice for you would be to get out there and enjoy every last bit of your ride.
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Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Buying a Single Speed Fixed Gear Bike
Although single speed bikes have a fairly standard build when compared to other bikes, still there are many things to look into when buying one, so without any due let’s get started.
Frame
The frame matters the most when buying your bike, its shape, geometry, and the material with which the frame is built greatly influences your riding style and experience. The frame mostly uses the standard road bike design with forward leaning position. It might include a top and bottom tube in a diamond shape along with a front fork.
Most of the single speed bikes feature three types of frame materials
- Aluminum and aluminum alloy is most commonly used due to its lightness and good shock absorption qualities. Apart from that Aluminum can resist rust and corrosion and is the most affordable option when buying a single speed fixed gear bike.
- Steel ensures maximum durability but adds to the overall weight. But some people prefer steel bike as they are considered a bit more smooth and comfortable.
- If you want to take things a little further into premium bikes, they feature carbon fiber frames, which are lightweight and sturdy but heavier on your pocket too.
Handlebars
The handlebars on single speed bikes really come down to your preference and riding style, where you can choose from 3 different types of handlebars
- Some riders prefer Flat bars which are the most common choice for single speed bikes. In flat bars you can get a completely straight handlebar or with riser/mustache bar.
- Drop down-style handlebar for a more lowered position to give you more of a road bike look and feel.
- Some riders prefer Bullhorn handlebars which are good for a more forward-leaning position and basically intended for racing or when you want to go fast.
Saddle
The saddle of the fixed gear and single speed bikes feature elements from racing and track bikes. So depending on the model they can be lightly cushioned or give you slightly more padding. Those riders who desire a bit more comfort should opt for a mountain bike style saddle.
Gearing Ratio
When buying a single speed bike, it’s very important to find the right gear ratio. The most common gear ratios are
- 44:16: A 44:16 or (2.75) gear ratio allows easier acceleration, but has lower top speed and is generally more suited for leisurely cruising. So, if you tend to ride in a flat area without hills, a bike with 44:16 gear ratios is the best choice for you.
- 46:16: On the other hand a 46:16 or (2.88) gear ration, provides higher top speeds and is more efficient than the 44:16 gear ratio. But accelerating your bike will be more difficult. Bikes with this gear ratio are great for commuting and cruising and are best for trick riding or more performance-related rides.
Here’s a thread on which gear ratio is the best on Bikeforums.net
Brakes
Most of the fixed gear riders often prefer to ride without brakes but all the models we have reviewed feature at least one front brake. The front brake used on single speed bikes are mostly caliper brakes with plenty of stopping power. Disc brakes are rare on these kinds of bikes and are found only in premium bikes.
Riding without brakes is extremely dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. As it requires riders to have the experience to learn to see the road, preserve the momentum of the bike and choose good lines.
Pedals
Pedals are one of the most important parts of your bike where people don’t pay much attention. A pedal drives the crankset, which powers the whole bike. Flat platform style or BMX style pedals are used commonly on fixies and single speed bikes due to their simplicity, but holster versions and clipless pedals give the bike more control, especially when it comes to fixies with only rear coaster brakes.
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FAQs: Single Speed Bikes
What is the difference between a fixed gear bike and a single speed bike?
This is the most commonly asked question and yet most confusing one too. When it comes to a fixed gear bike, the rear cog is fixed with the pedals which means it will continually rotate along with the pedals. So once you start moving you can’t stop pedaling, and the pedals are always moving, and you can’t coast or relax. This sound very strange and demanding as you have to paddle all the time but once you get used to it, you’ll feel more connected to the road and the bike.
Single speed or freewheel means you have the option to coast and relax while riding. This is the standard configuration with which most people are comfortable. Most of the bikes we have reviewed, the rear wheel comes equipped with a flip-flop hub, so you can switch between a fixed gear and a freewheel.
Should I ride the fixed gear or single speed?
This greatly depends upon your personal preferences, either you like to coast and relax while riding or you are an extreme enthusiast who wants to feel connected to the road. The best part about these flip-flop bikes is that they come with both a fixed gear and freewheel single speed cog. So, all you have to do is to flip the back wheel around, and you can change from fixed to freewheel and the other way around. It’s almost like having two bikes in one! So in this way you can learn to ride fixed gear.
How much do single speed bikes weigh?
Fully assembled bikes only weigh 18 to 25 lbs. This varies slightly depending on the material selected and the size of the frame.
- Steel bikes will normally weigh around 22-25 lbs
- Aluminum or Aluminum alloy bikes will weigh around 18-22 lbs
How much assembly do I have to do when I get the bike?
Assembling the bike won’t take more than 15-20 minutes as your bike will be 85% assembled when you take it out of the box. All you need to do is put the front wheel onto the frame, saddle on the seat post, put the pedals on, and at very last adjust handlebars and brakes.
Just Follow the manufacturer’s assembling instructions, or take it to a local bike shop if you’re not confident doing it yourself. Also, there are many assembly videos on YouTube so you can check them out when you get your bike or hit me up for any kind of help.
Do single gear bikes come with brakes?
Single speed bikes come equipped with front and rear brakes just like you would find in any normal geared bike. Riding without a brake might be prohibited and illegal by local road regulations. As in the UK, it’s totally illegal to ride one without the brakes. So the bike manufacturers feature at least a front wheel brake. However, you can take them on and off as you like it.
Are single speed bikes fast?
Single speed bikes are fast enough just like any other bike geared or fixed. The only difference in single speed is that it runs on a single gear, so it all depends upon the strength of your legs. And the speeds you achieve riding can vary by terrain and the inclination of the land. Freewheels on single speed bikes allow coasting which enables to attain high speeds while moving downhill. The other factors on which the speed depends are the varying gear ratios. But there is one thing for sure that a single speed bike will make you faster.
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The Bottom Line
A reason why people love single speed / fixed gear bikes is that single speed bikes have fewer moving parts and are extremely easy to maneuver. The simple construction makes for a lighter bike and minimizes all of the maintenance that is required in geared bikes. And most importantly when compared to other bikes they are relatively cheaper and affordable. Other than that no matter how you are riding; either freewheel or in fixed gear, it is as effortless as it comes.
So, here are the best single speed bikes to choose from. Now it all comes down to your personal preferences and your budget. So let me know in the comments section which single speed bike you chose or hit me up with questions that you would like to ask or suggestions that you would like to give!
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