Learn Why a Fixie Can Be the Ideal Choice for You
If you are a cycling lover, then you’ve probably already heard some of your more experienced friends passionately talk about fixies, or at least noticed that nowadays many men and women (not all of them hipsters) ride fixed-gear bicycles. I have, too, which is why I decided to do my research and find out why exactly people choose these bikes instead of regular, freewheel ones. But before I share with you the interesting pieces of information I managed to gather, I would like to remind you what a fixed-gear bike is.
Single gear bikes are bicycles with simplified core mechanisms. In other words, a fixie’s cog is directly tied to the motion of its pedals, which means that it cannot move unless power is applied to these parts. It also means that when you pedal forward, the fixie moves forward, and when you pedal backwards, it moves backwards. Now, why would anyone on Earth want to buy and use such an odd and seemingly impractical bike? Trust me, there are plenty of great reasons.
First of all, single gear bikes are generally cheaper and much lighter than their geared counterparts, so carrying them around and storing them is really convenient. These bicycles are lighter due to the fewer parts they are made up of, which not only explains why they are easier to maintain, but it also reveals why fixies are not an attractive prize for thieves.
Another amazing reason to purchase and start using a fixed-gear bike is the fact that these bicycles are extremely efficient. When correctly set up, a single gear bike has a perfectly straight chain line and a shorter chain. This, accompanied with the absence of derailleur pulleys, greatly improves the drive-train efficiency. And do you know what that means? Well, it means that a single gear bike requires less energy from its rider.
These bicycles are also aesthetically very pleasing. Their minimalist and clean look makes them appealing to both men and women, no matter what their personal style is. I, personally, have seen many young and fashionable people proudly riding their decorated fixies to work.
Last but not least, single gear bikes offer an unforgettable and unique riding experience. Those who have already ridden one know that an intimate relationship develops between the cyclist and the fixie. Once you unlearn the impulse to coast and change gears, you will realize that this actually gives you better control and maneuverability of the machine, which can be really fun and enjoyable. I’m sure all of this explains why fixed-gear bicycles have become such a popular vehicle.
