Best Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike for Simple Rides
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Surly Steamroller Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike -
Specialized Langster Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike -
Felt Brougham Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike -
Republic Aristotle Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike -
Bianchi Pista Bike -
Buyer's Guide
If you are looking for a bike that is simple, easy to maintain, quick, and lightweight, then a single-speed bike is the way to go. If you are considering a single-speed bike, there are some questions to consider. How long is your commute? Will you be tackling hills? If you have a long commute and your ride is filled with hills, you don't want a single-speed.
If you do know that this is the bike for you, then there are some important things to consider before choosing the one you ultimately buy. The single-speed bike is great for a fast trip through the city and is perfect for someone who doesn't want to deal with cables and gears.
Single-speed is not one size fits all. These bikes are geared two different ways and you need to know your riding style before buying. A fixed-gear single-speed has a rear fixed cog. When you pedal, the bike moves. If you stop pedaling, this bike brakes— you can't pedal and coast. Fixed gear bikes only need a front brake. If you want the option to pedal and sit back and relax while the bike coasts along, you want to look at a single-speed freewheel bike, not a single-speed fixed gear bike.
The best single-speed fixed gear bikes in 2022 on this list have all you could want in a single-speed bike. Read on for our favorites.
Detailing the Best Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bikes of 2022
Surly Steamroller Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike - Best Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike Overall
The Surly Steamroller tops this list, and although it is at the top of the list, the price tag is still within most budgets. Surly is name many people associate with touring bikes, but they make other quality bikes. The Steamroller has a double-butted 4130 CroMoly steel frame, with road-style geometry. Simple clean lines, and available in two color choices, the Steamroller is extremely durable. Your best option with this bike, as with any, is to find a dealer and take a test ride.
Specialized Langster Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike - Runner Up
Specialized is one of my favorite brands in the world of bicycles. The Langster is light, stylish, and responsive. A compact track style geometry and light-weight frame make this a performance bike. The carbon-fiber fork and carbon-wrapped seat-post will take the vibration out of the ride and keep the weight of the bike down. The Langster is one of the most stylish single-speeds on the market. If looking good while you roll to work is important to you, take a look at the Langster.
Felt Brougham Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike - Honorable Mention
The Felt Brougham single speed in Gun Powder is my choice for the sexiest bike on this list. The gun powder color of the frame is highlighted with a bright white seat, handlebars, and grips. The Brougham is available in other colors as well if this isn't your look. This single speed comes equipped with Tektro front and rear brake levers with Tektro dual pivot calipers. Single speed riding was never easier or more stylish. At $569 the Felt Brougham is worth a look.
Republic Aristotle Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bike - Consider
The Republic Aristotle single speed is on this list for those of you who want the freedom of customization. The Republic website has a super-cool 3-D design feature for you to customize your bike and view it in 3-D. Most of us think customization comes with a long wait, however, according to Republic, the bikes go from custom to built in about 5 days. The Aristotle's steel frame is available in a number of sizes, including an extra-small. You will also find a women's version of this single speed.
Bianchi Pista Bike - Best Single-Speed (Fixed Gear) Bike
Bianchi took the single speed, fixed gear bike from the track to the city streets. Bianchi celebrates it's 125th anniversary in 2013, they are the oldest bike manufacturer in existence. You don't manufacture bikes for that long and not know what you are doing. The Pista is available in two color options and several sizes. The Pista single speed easily transitions from track star to simple, quick commuter transportation. The frame geometry is close to a true track style. This single speed is a great bike for the price, around $769.
Buyer's Guide
The best way to appreciate the outdoors is to go for a ride on a bicycle. You can pedal your way to improved health with the entire family. Maybe you're sick of walking to work and want a speedier way to get there. With a fixed-gear bicycle, you won't need to rack your brains on changing the gears. These bikes are also ideal for novices who are just getting started with the bike riding journey.
Single-speed fixed gear bikes aren't just for people who want to get in shape or ride for fun; many professional cyclists practice on them off-season, and they're common on the track. You'll notice that the pedals are more efficient and handle the bike more precisely as a result. Take a look at our buying guide as we have discussed different aspects to consider.
What are the advantages of fixed-gear bikes?
Health and well-being
When it comes to cardio training, a fixed-gear bike can help you begin moving quickly. Increasing your heart rate will help you have more endurance and be more physically fit. You'll need to exert more muscle strength to get stronger with a single gear.
Improved maintainability
As opposed to multi-gear bikes, fixed-gear bikes have fewer parts and so require less maintenance, which saves money in the long term. These bikes are simple to maintain, even for new riders.
Improved riding stability and control
These bikes are great for people who are just learning to ride a bike since they make it easier to get started pedaling and have better control over the bike. Changing gears does not have to be a concern when learning to ride, and that's exactly what fixed-gear bikes do for you.
Which type of fixed-gear bike should you buy?
Commuting bike
Sturdy steel frames and thick tires are standard on these bikes. A comfortable and safe riding position is one that keeps you up and out of the way of traffic.
You will more often see commuting amenities like fenders and luggage racks on these bikes. These bikes have sealed bearing hubs, which are essential for commuting in all conditions.
Touring bikes
Long-distance riders will appreciate these bikes' comfort and performance. Your pedaling efficiency will improve dramatically as a result of their assistance.
Steel frames, which are both sturdy and vibration-dampening, are commonly used. Plush handlebar tape, fenders, phone mount, wheel lights, racks, and water bottle holders are just some of the extras you'll find on your long journeys.
Track bikes
Carbon fiber and aluminum alloy are used to make the frames of these bicycles. The frame's sharper angles help in getting a more streamlined riding position and increased lateral rigidity.
In general, the wheelbase is shorter and the vehicle's curb weight is lower. The cost of these fixed-gear bikes is generally a bit higher than counterparts.
How much do single-speed fixed gear bikes cost?
Inexpensive
If your budget is less than $200, you can get a decent single-speed fixed gear bike. These may not have all the bells and whistles, but they will give you solid service for a low price.
Mid-range
The bulk of fixed-gear bicycles cost between $200 and $400. Their features and configurations will be different, but they'll all ride smoothly. You'll be amazed by the high standard of construction used in their products.
Expensive
High-end bikes costing $400 or more have high-quality components and are therefore well worth the money. In this price range, fixed gear bikes are more dependable and long-lasting.
Which characteristics of the fixed-gear bikes are worth considering?
Frame material
Your bike's frame material can be steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Steel is the most common frame material. Compared to aluminum, steel is heavier, but it is more corrosion-resistant and robust. On the other hand, aluminum is the least expensive metal.
Despite its high cost, carbon fiber is the most lightweight material available. The durability of carbon fiber makes it perfect for track riding, but it's not so great for commuting.
Gear size
Choose your bike's gear size according to your riding style and preferences. Be mindful about the riding you want to undertake and the terrain you'll be riding on.
Mountain bikers and hill climbers often want a lower gear ratio. A higher gear ratio is more pleasurable for flatland riders. Because they won't be dealing with inclines, racers want the highest gear possible for the fastest trip.
Brakes
Zero, one, or two brakes are available on fixed-gear bikes. With no brakes, you have to backpedal to produce resistance and slow down your bike when you're riding it. Commuting in traffic with a brakeless bike isn't recommended.
The maximum stopping force and traction on the back tire will be lost if you only have one set of brakes to use. A front-and-rear brake system provides the highest stopping power. Choose the brake system according to your needs.
Size
You must be able to ride a bike that is comfortable for you. It must be at the proper height so that you can conveniently mount and dismount the bike. Your instep's length will need to be measured.
Centimeters are used to measure the frame's dimensions. So, be mindful of the dimensions. While cycling, your leg should be free to move as you like without your knees hitting the handlebars.
Best Single-Speed Fixed Gear Bikes FAQs
Q: For what purpose are fixed gear bikes great
A: A fixed-gear bike has numerous applications. They're great for working out, commuting, racing, tracking, and training.
Q: Fixed bikes come with what kind of gear?
A: There is a drivetrain on these bikes, but there is no freewheel. It's one of the earliest bike designs ever, but it's stayed popular because of its simplicity. Because the gear and pedals are intertwined, when the back wheel turns, so do the pedals.
Q: Which bike should I buy?
A: Those with a strong yet light frame make the greatest fixed-gear bicycles. The gear should be of a reasonable size and allow you to ride in a variety of situations. Also, be sure it's the proper size and has all the accessories you need to use it for its intended function.
