Would you like a better physique? More time to relax? Or perhaps save more money? Getting the best single speed and fixed gear bikes can give you greater health, save you time and money.
Together, let’s go through the top best 13 bikes on the market. You’re going to get your very own masterpiece when you keep reading on below!
See also:
- Top 10 Best Hybrid Bikes Under 500$ Review In 2019
- Top 9 Affordable Road Bikes Under $500/1000$ Reviews In 2019
Table of Contents
- Top 13 Best Single Speed and Fixed Gear Bikes in 2019
- 1. Retrospec Harper Bike – Best for Beginners
- 2. Pure Fix Original – Best for Tall Riders
- 3. Golden Cycles Single Speed Fixed Gear – Best for Commuting
- 4. SXL Expressway Bike – Best for Cruising
- 5. 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear – Best for Winter Riding
- 6. 6KU Urban Track Bike – Best for Urban
- 7. Retrospec Harper Coaster – Best for Hills
- 8. Schwinn Kedzie – Best for City Riding
- 9. Eurobike Kingttu – Best for Mountain
- 10. Vilano Rampage Road Bike – Best for Exercise
- 11. Cinelli Tipo – Best for Training
- 12. Raleigh Rush Hour City Bike – Best Complete Bike
- 13. EuroMini ZiZZO Campo – Best Folding Bike
- Which Is The Best Single Speed And Fixed Gear Brands?
- The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Single Speed and Fixed Gear Bikes
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Top 13 Best Single Speed and Fixed Gear Bikes in 2019
For groups of riders
1. Retrospec Harper Bike – Best for Beginners
Pros:
- Urban geometry for easy steering for beginner riders
- No toe overlap so your toe won’t get in the way of the front wheel
- 2-in-1 Flip Flop hub for cruising, going over hills and exercising
- VP Freestyle pedals for easy pedaling
Cons:
- No fenders on the wheels to protect mud splashing up to you
- Quite heavy because of the steel components
- Lacks water bottle mounting holes for longer rides
For beginners, this Retrospec Harper would be your perfect 2-in-1 sidekick. At a high level, you will find a sturdy high-tensile steel frame holding the bike together.
The feature we think stands out most is no toe overlap. Many riders experience this issue, especially while turning, when their shoes get in the way of the front wheel.
But with this bike, you won’t experience such issue thanks to the spacious room from the front axle to the bottom bracket shell.
If you look at the spokes on the wheels, you’ll see they form V-like shapes. From an aerodynamics standpoint, the deeper those Vs are, the less resistance and faster your bike will move through the air.
Double wall rims give you protection on both the outside and inside. They are stronger but heavier. If you’re planning to use the bike for light street or dirt, this spec would totally rock it.
What disappointed us was the lack of fenders. These come in handy in case of rain or riding over puddles. We’d love to see a lighter material like aluminum.
Other than that, this is a solid bike that is easy to ride and maintain for beginners.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Hi-Ten steel
Type of gear bike: One gear
Weight around: 25 lbs
Weight capacity: 220 lbs
Brake: Front & rear Promax brakes
Highlight feature: No Toe Overlap
Wheels & tires: 700x28c Kenda tires
Handlebars: 25.4mm riser handlebars
2. Pure Fix Original – Best for Tall Riders
Pros:
- XL and XXL sizes to fit tall riders from 6’ to 6’2”
- Lightweight (22 – 25 lbs) for easy maneuverability through streets
- Durable KMC chain to withstand the most aggressive pedaling
Cons:
- No rear coaster brake for you to stop the bike by pedaling backward
- Loose-ball hub could be improved to sealed bearings hub for better durability
If your height is from 5’10” to over 6’6”, this Pure Fix Original is your best match. You will find the most suitable sizes by going with size L, XL, or XXL.
This bike takes on an excellent amount of load up to 250 lbs. Thanks to the unique Pure Cycles drome saddle, your body and butt won’t get tired when riding for long hours.
Thick, slick, and puncture-resistant, the WTB 700x28c tires will provide you with the best riding experience, even over rocks or bumpy roads.
Connecting every other component nicely in place is the tig-welded high tensile steel frame. Compared to aluminum, this material is heavier. However, in terms of durability, it is no less amazing.
For such a build, you’ll be surprised to find that the bike is pretty lightweight. It is around the 22 lbs neighborhood. It’s a pity they didn’t go with a sealed bearings hub for this one, which could further improve your bike’s performance.
In one neat package, this is everything you could ask for in a bike, especially for your long legs.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Hi-Ten steel
Type of gear bike: 15T fixed cog & 16T freewheel
Weight around: 22 – 25 lbs
Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Brake: Front brake
Highlight feature: Unique drome saddle
Wheels & tires: 700x28c WTB tires
Handlebars: Mustache handlebars
For riding styles
3. Golden Cycles Single Speed Fixed Gear – Best for Commuting
Pros:
- BMX platform pedals built for comfort, control, and handling abuse
- Sturdy 130BDC crankset that works reliably even at fast speeds
- A responsive front brake that helps you stop on a dime
Cons:
- Lack of a spot to mount a rear brake for extra stopping power
- The packaging was quite underwhelming
Commuters need a bike that is fast, reliable, and easy to ride. And here is your solution.
Built with heavy-duty BMX platform pedals, this bike is surprisingly easy to steer, especially at high speeds in dense traffic.
The crankset has a 5-bolt chainring that measures 130 mm in Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD). Literally, this is one of the best and sturdiest sets to serve your needs.
Stopping on the bike is easy and responsive. Squeezing the hand brake is all you need. Despite that, some folks wish they had included a spot to mount an extra rear brake for more protection.
The thick Kenda tires coupled with deep V alloy rims will also carry you to your destination in great comfort and good velocity.
For such a good bike, it’s quite a shame that the packaging couldn’t be done better. This is something you should keep in mind when receiving the package.
With a beautiful array of colors, commuters can’t go wrong when choosing this incredible bike either for daily commuting or weekend cruising.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Tig-welded Hi-Ten steel
Type of gear bike: 45T bottom bracket
Weight around: 22 – 25 lbs
Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Brake: Front brake
Highlight feature: Sturdy pedal & crankset
Wheels & tires: 700x25c Kenda tires
Handlebars: Custom riser handlebars
4. SXL Expressway Bike – Best for Cruising
Pros:
- 6061 double-butted aluminum for portability and easy control
- Internal cable routing that looks clean and saves space
- 2 mounts to hold your water bottles when you get thirsty during the trip
- Wide clearance allowing you to upgrade the wheels up to 700x32c
Cons:
- Size L does not fit tall folks over 6’6”
- You may consider upgrading the stock plastic pedals because they are not sturdy
- Paint on the handlebars chips easily after some use
Cruising downtown on the weekend is a great way to enjoy your free time with friends and families. For that purpose, this Expressway bike can get the job done.
Made with the best material in the industry, the bike is amazingly lightweight, making it a breeze to handle, ride, and maintain.
The unique feature of this model is their internal brake cable system. Instead of routing the brake cable externally like most bikes do, this one routes the cable inside the top tube.
Aesthetically, it looks neat. One possible issue, however, is the difficulty of maintenance when the need arises.
But the two water bottle bosses certainly make up for that point. This is very convenient in case your friends’ bike doesn’t have a water bottle cage.
Thanks to the wide clearance between the frame and fork, you can size it up to 700x32c. Doing this will help you ride with more stability when the road condition is bumpy or wet.
We suggest that you upgrade the stock plastic pedals to something sturdier. Also, this is not the bike to look for if you’re taller than 6’6”.
In short, this bike rocks for weekend warriors who love cruising.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: 6061 double butted aluminum
Type of gear bike: 46T bottom bracket
Brake: Internal brake cable
Highlight feature: Lightweight 6061 aluminum
Wheels & tires: 700x25c Chao Yang performance tires
Handlebars: 31.8mm riser handlebars
5. 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear – Best for Winter Riding
Pros:
- Good 700x25c tires for greater base support on slippery roads
- Removable front & rear brakes for easier steering & trick performance
- Novatec hub to ride in freewheel mode with coasting
- Replaceable stainless steel dropout makes it quick & easy to maintain
Cons:
- The inclusion of 2 extra fenders is recommended
- You may want to bump the thickness of your wheels if the winter is harsh
Although many people give their bikes a break in the winter, others rely on it for transportation around town. For light to medium winter environments, this bike would be the best winter beater for you.
We are initially impressed with how light this bike is. The aluminum makes it much easier to handle in cold weather.
The wheels sport strong 25mm tires. You can use the bike worry-free when the road has some light rain. We would recommend bumping up the thickness if your local area snows like those Minnesota winters.
Also, Novatec hub is awesome for its kind when it comes to coasting. You can recognize one with the teardrop design around the hub.
With the replaceable stainless steel dropouts, you can maintain your bike quickly and easily.
The only drawback? We’d prefer two more mudguards on the bike. It is simple to overcome this by getting a pair at your local bike shop or online.
For a bike at this price and of this quality, you wouldn’t be happier with this reliable partner on snowy days.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: 6061 double butted aluminum
Type of gear bike: 16T freewheel & 18T fixed gear
Weight around: 21 lbs
Brake: Front & rear hand-operated brakes
Highlight feature: Novatec hub
Wheels & tires: 700x25c Kenda tires
Handlebars: Riser style handlebars
For terrains
6. 6KU Urban Track Bike – Best for Urban
Pros:
- Riser bars for quick navigation through the city’s jungle
- Light frame so you can hook it on the bike rack or carry it on your shoulders
- Smooth welding to nicely support your body weight
- Alloy fork & deep V rims for fast and efficient riding
Cons:
- No eyelids to hook an extra pannier rack
- Doesn’t handle light gravel trail very well
- Replacing standard bullhorn bars for low-riding position is not applicable
For riders with an active lifestyle who want to move around the neighborhood getting some coffee, groceries, or food, this urban track bike would be the perfect solution.
Thanks to the riser bars in place of drop bars, you will be able to navigate your way through the city streets in a fast and smooth fashion.
Because it is made of lightweight aluminum, you can easily pick it up or hook it on the bike racks on buses during your way to school or work.
At the joints of the bike’s tubes, you’ll find smooth welds. Not only do they look nice, but they also support your body weight pretty amazingly.
Without having to stick to train or bus schedules, you can zip around on the bike fast thanks to the alloy fork and deep V rim design.
It’s quite disappointing that you can’t hook an additional pannier rack or basket on the bike to hold your groceries. We don’t recommend doing it anyway because it adds extra weight to the bike.
Also, we don’t recommend using it on light gravel either. You’re best sticking to using it on smooth city roads.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: 6061 double butted aluminum
Type of gear bike: fixed & freewheel cogs
Weight around: 21 lbs
Brake: Front & rear hand-operated brakes
Highlight feature: Aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum frame
Wheels & tires: 700x25c Kenda tires
Handlebars: Riser handlebars
7. Retrospec Harper Coaster – Best for Hills
Pros:
- Powerful built-in coaster brake for riding up and down hills
- Freewheel cog makes coasting over hills easy & fun
- Fixed cog builds your muscle when ascending
- Large steel frame for extra durability, reliability & responsiveness
Cons:
- The bike is heavy because of the steel frame
- You may need a bike professional to dial & assemble the bike
- Some missing parts when the package arrives
Living in hilly areas like those cities in Utah or California can’t stop a bike lover from conquering those hills. If you’re in the need for a bike for hills, this would be the best solution ever.
With the powerful built-in coaster brake, you can use the bike safely, especially when zooming down the hills. You can pedal backward to stop the bike.
If you’re into some easy and fun riding over hills, put on the freewheel hub. It will help you glide over the hill like a surfer surfing smooth over a wave. Your legs won’t get tired when riding for long periods of time.
If you’re looking for some great leg or thigh workouts or even racing with your friends, put on the fixed-gear hub. Keep in mind that it would be harder to pedal, therefore, your muscles will grow much stronger.
The frame of the bike is made of steel. The material offers great power and performance even for the most abusive riding.
Because it’s made from steel, the bike is heavy. It might not be a good idea to carry it on your shoulder. For non-handy folks, you may need professional assembly as well.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Hi-Ten Steel
Type of gear bike: Freewheel & fixed cogs
Weight around: lbs
Weight capacity: lbs
Brake: Coaster brake (backpedaling brake)
Highlight feature: Freewheel & fixed cog
Wheels & tires: 700x28c
Handlebars: Riser handlebars
8. Schwinn Kedzie – Best for City Riding
Pros:
- Weight-saving & supportive 32-Hole alloy rims to handle city streets
- Steel racing frame & fork for extra durability and performance
- Front & rear caliper brakes to deliver precise stops in every situation
Cons:
- The frame is heavy, weighing around 30 lbs
- Missing components upon arrival of the package
With weight-saving 32H alloy rims, this bike can take you around all the streets in your city in the best and smoothest way.
The steel racing frame and fork make it easy for you to find your way through traffic. They have superb strength and performance.
In even the most unexpected situations like a deep turn, you can count on the front and rear caliper brakes to stop the bike most responsively.
On the downside, this model is quite heavy. To save extra weight, you may want to take off the chain guard.
Also, be sure to check if you receive all the components in the box. Some folks experience the missing components issue when ordering.
With Schwinn urban seat and grips, you will get the best comfort when riding even for long hours.
Geared up with a powerful drivetrain, stylish design, and responsive brake system, you’ll be riding fast and safely through dense city traffic.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Hi-Ten Steel
Type of gear bike: 46T by 18T freewheel & fixed cog (sold separately)
Weight around: 32 lbs
Weight capacity: 200+ lbs
Brake: Caliper brake
Highlight feature: Steel racing frame & fork
Wheels & tires: 700c
Handlebars: Riser handlebars
9. Eurobike Kingttu – Best for Mountain
Pros:
- Powerful dual suspension for high jumps, landings, and body support
- Heavy-duty mechanical disc brake for responsive stopping
- Up to 21 speed options to get enough power when riding over obstacles
- Supports up to 320 lbs making it great for heavy & big riders
Cons:
- The steel frame and fork make the bike really heavy
- Assembly can be tricky due to the number of gears needed
- No tools included in the shipment
Conquering mountain tops with this powerful machine is truly exciting. The bike sports dual suspension, making it a true beast when doing high jumps or landings.
This kind of support will also be great for riders who are having a bad back or knee pain. Thanks to the 26-inch 3-spoke wheels, you’ll have solid base support that goes fast on mountain trails.
Powered up by two awesome disc brakes, the bike stops on a dime. With a max load up to 320 lbs, it can fit riders from 5’4” to 6’0” easily.
With Shimano’s front and rear derailleurs, you’re fully equipped with 21 speed options. Changing the speed is as easy as pushing a button with your thumb.
The tricky part? Possibly the assembly because you won’t get any tools in the package. It might be better to visit your local bike shop.
This bike is super heavy, weighing around 40 lbs because the frame and fork are both made from high-quality steel.
Jam-packed with a huge deal of value, this Kingttu mountain warrior can make your riding experience more perfect than ever before!
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Hi-Ten Steel
Type of gear bike: 21-speed Shimano gear
Weight around: 40 lbs
Weight capacity: 320 lbs
Brake: Hand-operated disc brake
Highlight feature: Dual suspension
Wheels & tires: 26 inches (660c)
Handlebars: Steel, straight handlebars
For Fitness
10. Vilano Rampage Road Bike – Best for Exercise
Pros:
- Heavy-duty forged alloy crank arms supporting your continuous pedaling
- Hard gear for working your leg muscles to the next level
- Anodized wheels for added strength and the best corrosion protection
Cons:
- Difficult to assemble for non-handy riders
- No pre-drilled holes for a water bottle on longer rides
- The Free Platform pedals do come off after a great deal of use
You’ve made the best decision looking for a fixed gear bike for fitness. A quick look at this bike gives you this cool, sporty vibe that is so important for motivation when you’re on your way to better health.
When you look at those frames, you’ll find carefully shaped front and rear triangles connecting to each other. This is the urban geometry. And boy, does it work wonders, even at high speeds!
But now, how are those tubes connected? Look at them closely, you’ll find tidy tig-welded joints. We think Vilano has done a very good job on this model with clean, attractive welds.
On this model, they have forged alloy cranks. Forged alloy is a combination of metals that is better than cast alloy because it is stronger, more impact-resistant, and durable.
Unfortunately, this bike doesn’t ship fully assembled. Some folks take it to the bike shop for professional assembly. We’d love to see several water bottle mounting holes on the bike. You will get thirsty when exercising for 30 minutes.
In sum, the bike would be your reliable partner for years to come. Take it home and have a great time with it today!
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Tig-welded Hi-Ten steel
Type of gear bike: One gear
Weight around: 22 lbs
Weight capacity: 200 lbs
Brake: Hand-operated brakes with external cable
Highlight feature: Forged alloy crank arms
Wheels & tires: 45mm deep V
Handlebars: Flat handlebars
11. Cinelli Tipo – Best for Training
Pros:
- Track rake angle providing a fast & reliable performance
- Extra-long dropouts with vertical angles for the perfect chain tension
- Lasco 165mm crankset to handle aggressive usage
Cons:
- On the pricey side for small budgets
- Tricky for beginners to use
Would you like a high-performing bike that you can count on for training? Or perhaps to beat your competition? If your answer is yes, then this is the bike for you.
Featuring an impressive track rake angle, the bike offers the world’s fastest and wildest riding experience.
The extra-long dropouts make it super easy to slide your wheels out for maintenance or upgrading. Together with the vertical angles, chain tension is tuned at its finest.
The aircraft-grade aluminum frame is the best of its kind, providing you a sturdy yet lightweight frame.
Sporting the large 165mm Lasco crankset, the bike can withstand the highest revolutions per minute.
One possible downside is the price tag for smaller budgets. Using a bike can be tricky for beginners. So we recommend this model to intermediate and advanced riders.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Aluminum & carbon fiber
Type of gear bike: Fixed gear
Weight around: lbs
Weight capacity: lbs
Brake: Hand-operated brake cable
Highlight feature: Track rake
Wheels & tires: Jalco MRX24 rims & Duro 700x25c
Handlebars: Drop bars
Type Of Bikes
12. Raleigh Rush Hour City Bike – Best Complete Bike
Pros:
- Ships 85% pre-assembled so you don’t need to waste time
- Brake foot straps included for beginners to easily stop the bike
- Unique drop bars for faster aero tuck position riding
- Lightweight aluminum cranks that take little effort to get the bike going
Cons:
- Quite heavy compared to aluminum models
- You may want to upgrade the foot straps because they are not that great
- Stopping the bike without brake cable is recommended for skilled riders only
If you just want a bike that works, here is your dream vision in reality. Introducing the Raleigh Rush Hour!
This bike ships 85% assembled, making it one of the most complete high-quality bikes you can get on the market. All you need to do is to inflate the wheels and adjust components like the seat.
Let us start off by singing praises on how BEAUtiful this baby looks! For minimalists, stylish urban riders, this is the rock star.
You can take the brake cable off if you want to. When you do this, you simply stop it by leaning your body all the way forward. The foot straps, though may not be the best, can help beginners control the bike more easily.
The Satori track handlebars will help you get in the aero tuck position when riding at faster speeds. With thick Kenda tires, you can ride with greater base support even on wet streets.
The only downside, we think, is this bike is quite heavy compared to similar models.
Designed to handle city roads, this incredible street machine delivers as promised. You will ride in style and safety when moving through city traffic.
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Hi-Ten steel
Type of gear bike: One gear
Weight around: 24.3 lbs
Weight capacity: lbs
Brake: Dual pivot caliper brake (removable)
Highlight feature: Understated graphics
Wheels & tires: 700c Kenda tires
Handlebars: Drop handlebars
13. EuroMini ZiZZO Campo – Best Folding Bike
Pros:
- Powerful magnet catcher to hold the bike securely in place
- Folds in just seconds making it easy to carry around & to put into car trunks
- Up to 7 speeds for versatile riding on & off-road
- Ergonomic seat & water bottle mounts for the most comfortable long rides
Cons:
- Not ideal for tall folks over 6’6”
- The shifter can be tricky for beginners to handle
- Instruction manuals provide unclear guides to assemble the bike
In just one snap, you’ll be able to fold your bike in half and carry it around effortlessly. This is the best folding bike on the market for your need.
What holds the bike strongly in place is the powerful magnet mechanism. Coupled with durable aluminum alloy stem, you can snap the bike in half within 30 seconds or less.
The bike is not only perfect for on-road riding, but it also works beautifully off the road. Thanks to the beast 7-speed Shimano front and rear derailleurs, you’ll be flying whether it’s flat road or mountain trails.
If your bad back is holding you back, the ergonomic seat with 2 extra water bottles can provide you great comfort and hydrate you fully during your trip.
The bike, however, is not ideal for folks with very long legs because it doesn’t provide enough room. Also, it can be difficult for newbies to shift gears on the bike. We don’t think the instruction manuals are that helpful. You may need a professional assembly instead.
Overall, you’ll get a lot of bike for your buck and future adventures!
Product Specifications:
Frame & fork: Aluminum
Type of gear bike: 7 gears
Weight around: 28 lbs
Weight capacity: 240 lbs
Brake: V-style
Highlight feature: Magnet catcher
Wheels & tires: Wanda tires with 28H spokes
Handlebars: 25.4mm backsweep bars
Which Is The Best Single Speed And Fixed Gear Brands?
Here are the world’s best names in the game:
6KU
6KU produces some of the most popular and best-selling single speed and fixies on the market. Their bikes are well-loved due to their ease of use, attractive design, and durability.
Critical Cycles
Bikers love Critical Cycles because their products are thoughtfully designed with superior materials. Despite that, most of their bikes are surprisingly affordable.
Cinelli
World-famous Italian bike maker Cinelli has over 70 years of making bikes for pro riders in Giro di Lombardia and Tour of the Apennines. You can trust their quality if you’re looking for training or race bikes.
Schwinn
The American household name, Schwinn, wins the hearts of many bikers thanks to their safety, simplicity, and performance. Their bikes are great for family uses as well.
Vilano
Although it sounds Italian, this brand originates in the US. They have a cool collection of bikes that are best suited for young riders who need a reliable and stylish-looking bike.
Raleigh
Raleigh gets everyone’s attention thanks to their attention to details. Since 1887, Raleigh has been providing high-quality but affordable bikes for minimalists, kids, and thrill-seekers.
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Single Speed and Fixed Gear Bikes
Purpose
If you just want a bike to cruise around town, to school, to work, then sticking with these fundamental specs would serve you well:
Specs:
- Wheel
- Frame & fork
- Handlebar
- Brake
Details:
- 700x25c
- Hi-Ten or Aluminum
- Riser handlebars
- Hand brakes
If you’re looking for a bike for exercising or training, then you’d want some specs like these:
Specs:
- Wheel
- Frame & fork
- Handlebar
- Brake
Details:
- 700x23c
- Aluminum or Chromoly
- Drop bars
- Hand brakes
Frame & Fork
If you like a lightweight frame, then the 6061 double butted aluminum would be awesome. 7005 triple-butted aluminum is also good because it’s durable and light. The drawback of these materials is that they are relatively more expensive.
If you love a cheaper option, then go with high tensile (or Hi-Ten) steel. Steel is durable but it is heavier. If you want to reduce the weight, take off other components like reflectors or chain guard.
The fork is usually made from the same material as the frame. There are some special cases like the forged alloy fork. A good fork will help your navigation greatly.
Wheel
Here are our top recommendations:
Brand: Kenda, Duro, WTB
For cruising, commuting, exercising: 700x23c or 700x25c
For mountain, rough terrains: 700x28c or 700x32c
Air pressure: 60-100 PSI
Air valves: Presta & Schrader
Spokes: 32 or 36 Holes
There are 2 measuring systems people use when they talk about wheel size:
- c or mm
- inches
For example, a 700x23c wheel is just like the 700x23mm wheel. The diameter measures 700mm and the thickness is 23mm. In inches, that would be the 27.5 x 0.9 inches.
Air pressure of the tire is often calculated in PSI (pounds per square inch). Or simply, how many pounds are applied on a square inch.
The typically range from 60-100 PSI would be fine for many cases. You can measure the pressure of your bike using an air pressure gauge.
The most common air valves are Presta and Schrader. Presta valves are slender, have a lock nut, and are easy to pump. Schrader valves are thicker, more robust, and have a removable core. Either is fine for your needs.
Generally, 32H wheels are good and functional. If you want some extra strength, 36H would be fine. It is slightly heavier, however.
Bike Size
Choose the most fitting bike size for you by doing this 1 thing:
Bike size = Inseam + 1 inch
Bike size is usually measured from the bottom bracket shell up to the top tube. They are often shown in inches or cm.
A 61 cm (24 inches) bike would be great for folks over 6’. A 49 cm (19 inches) bike would be okay for average or small riders.
Another way people talk about bike size is using their wheel size. In inches, you’ll find bikes in 26, 27.5, and 29. Many people call these 26er or 29er.
If you’re confused, choose the balanced middle one. It has the advantage of a 29er and is easy to ride.
Don’t forget to check the weight limit as well. Nowadays, many bikes can handle a load of over 200 lbs.
Brake
Check out the types of brake and their ease of use:
Type:
- Handbrake
- Foot brake (coaster brake)
- Rim brake
- Disc brake
- Leaning forward on a fixed gear
Ease of Use:
- Easy
- Intuitive
- Simple
- Good for smaller fingers
- Tricky for beginners
Thanks to the great stopping power, disc brake is easy to use if you have small fingers.
The most difficult type is leaning forward to stop the bike on your fixie. For beginners, we recommend putting on the hand brake, which is super simple to use, until you’ve mastered your moves.
The other types of brake are also quick and easy to learn and control.
FAQs
1. Are single speed bikes fast?
Single speed bikes are fast and can be as fast as you’d like thanks to your pedaling. The reason why it’s fast is that it’s relatively lightweight. With only one gear, the bike has much less resistance when moving through the air. In addition to that, the bike runs very quietly.
2. Are fixie bikes good for commuting?
Fixie bikes are a great choice for commuting for several reasons. First, it’s easy to ride, even for complete beginners. Second, it’s fast. In fact, some fixies have already reached top speeds of 60 mph on the open road. Some daredevils are planning to ramp it up to 100 mph. For commuting, those speeds overdeliver. Lastly, fixies are affordable for college students and a wide variety of users.
3. Can you free wheel on a single speed bike?
Yes, you can. We see this common misconception that many beginner riders have. To clear that up, we’d like to explain that, in bike terminology, a single speed bike can be referred to as a free wheel bike or a freewheeler. With that in mind, you’re well on your way to choosing the right one.
4. Why single speed bikes are better?
In comparison to multiple or variable speed bikes, single speed bikes have the advantage of being lighter, easier to maintain, more efficient, and much quieter. Also, for beginners with a limited budget range, single speed bikes are a much more affordable choice. Its responsiveness will get you from point A to point B without any surprises.
5. Are single speed bikes more efficient?
This is a yes. In fact, we believe that all of the bike gearings are made to maximize the efficiency of the vehicle. Single speed bikes are efficient because they can teach you how to ride your bike most flexibly in various conditions. You’ll learn how to balance properly to keep your momentum off the road. Also, you can take advantage of the ups and downs when riding over the hills.
6. What’s the difference between a fixie and single speed?
Every fixie can be considered a single speed bike. However, not every single speed bike is a fixie. You can coast on a single speed bike, but you can’t coast on a fixie. Coasting is when you ride without putting your feet on the pedals.
It’s easier to ride a single speed bike because you don’t have to use a lot of force. It’s harder to pedal on a fixie. To stop a single speed you can use the hand-operated brakes or pedal backward. To stop a fixie, you lean your body forward.
Pick a single speed if you want a bike to use around the neighborhood or on any short distances. Your legs won’t get sore or tired. Also, it’s great for riding up and downhills.
Pick a fixie if you want to get some exercises out of your bike. It will help you build strong leg muscles and endurance. Fixies are also great for doing tricks.
There are now 2-in-1 models with Flip Flop hubs that you can get for your bike.
7. Is Fixed Gear bad for knees?
We can’t give you a direct answer to this question because it really depends on your knee conditions. However, the main problem may lie in poor seat position and other fitting issues. If you ride your bike aggressively, the problems may occur much faster.
To prevent this, you can adjust your seat a bit higher. This helps the knee flex angle to be less and put less stress on the joints. Make sure to warm up properly before doing heavy tricks like skids or bunny hops on your fixies. These tricks can also put extra stress on the knees if not done right.
When you’re about to climb a steep hill, you’ll have to use a lot of power, which can put pressure on the knees. Make sure to mentally prepare some minutes before approaching the hill and not make any abrupt moves that could strain the knee joints. When you go over the hills, you can just zoom down the side freely.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has given you a better understanding of the mechanics of a bike and how to choose the best single speed and fixed gear bikes. The top picks in the list should give you a good amount of options. With that, we’re signing off and enjoy your ride!