Fixed gear bikes are great for the urban commute. Ask anyone who owns one and they will tell you it is the only way to ride in the city. Okay, perhaps they are just being biased, however, let’s take a look at some of the best reasons why fixie bikes are perfect for riding in the city.
1. It Weighs Less
Fixie bikes weigh less than a geared bike in general. A geared bike can weigh a few pounds more due to things like having heavier cranksets and cassettes and shift levers. It may not sound like a big difference in weight, but at the end of a hard day and you’ve been working like a dog, it can make a difference when you’re making your way back home.
2. Fixies Aren’t Stolen As Much
One strange fact regarding fixies is that the chances of them getting stolen is lower compared to other bikes. Just like someone trying to steal a car and finding out it is a manual, which they have no idea about, think of a fixie in these terms too. A fixed-gear bike is like the manual car of bikes and it can take some getting used to. If a thief has never ridden one and gets on it, it is going to feel pretty strange. You can try it yourself – a fixie, not stealing a bike!
3. Less Expensive
You can expect to pay less for a fixie than for a comparable geared bike. One reason is because there is less hardware. Generally, they are also made of less expensive materials.
4. Less Repair Costs
Not only are the costs of repair less when compared to a geared bike, it is also much easier to repair and maintain. A little tightening here and a bit of oil there can make life easier, but do spend a little time performing simple maintenance tasks. It’s less complicated because there are no complex derailleurs to deal with. Only the brake pads may need to be replaced now and then. Derailleurs being moving parts can wear out over some time, which is always the problem with moving parts of any kind. Replacing or repairing it can get expensive. There’s really not much in a fixie that will break and if there was, it can be easily handled economically.
5. More Efficient
Due to a shorter chain length, a fixie transfers energy to the wheel from the pedal more efficiently. There are no derailleur pulleys to contend with either. All of this can make a difference on longer rides.
6. Flat Urban Areas
A lot of urban areas tend to be flat. As a result, there is really not much need for those gears that make it easier to climb. Occasionally, you may have to work a little harder, but that’s about it. Besides, you can always get off and walk up a hill!
It is often said that a fixed-gear bike is more fun as well. If you ride to work and have fun or enjoy it, then you are more likely to stick to it. The motion of the bike and that of the rider on the pedals are in sync. It gives a greater sense of connection to the bike as well as the ground.
