Fixed-gear bicycle

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A fixed-gear bicycle, or fixie, is a bike where the pedals move directly with the rear wheel. There is no freewheel, so you can’t coast. The pedals always spin when the wheel turns, and you can slow down or stop by resisting the pedals. Some riders can even ride the bike backward. Most fixies are single-speed, but you can add gears with an internally geared hub. If you use a derailleur, it can create chain slack that interferes with braking, so fixed-gear bikes usually stay single-speed unless they use a special hub.

Braking is different on fixed gears. Many have a front brake, some have no brakes at all, and several riders brake mainly by resisting the pedaling. This makes the drivetrain the primary braking system, which can be less effective, especially on downhill or slippery surfaces. In many places, laws require at least one functioning brake, and some regions require brakes on both wheels.

A track bicycle is a fixed-gear bike designed for racing on velodromes. Track bikes usually have a higher bottom bracket and are built for quick, controlled pedaling rather than long, varied gear ranges. Fixed-gear cycles are also used for winter training, urban riding, and various bike sports such as bike polo or artistic cycling.

Benefits often cited for fixed gears include simplicity, light weight, and direct power transfer from rider to wheel. With fewer parts, there’s less maintenance and less to wear out. However, there are trade-offs: no ability to shift to easier or harder gears for hills or rough terrain, and the need for careful chain tension and alignment to avoid the chain slipping or skipping.

Common setup tips: many riders choose a gear ratio around 2.7 to 1, such as a 44-tooth chainring with a 16-tooth sprocket. Proper chain tension is crucial, and chainline should be straight from the chainring to the sprocket. If converting a bike from a freewheel setup, you may need a track-style rear hub or other hardware to keep the sprocket from loosening while backpedaling.

Culture and racing around fixed gears have grown since the 2000s. There are alleycat races in cities, organized group rides, and media focused on fixie style and street riding. Riders often value speed, cadence, and smooth, practiced pedal work, which some say translates to better efficiency on any bike.

In short, a fixed-gear bicycle is a simple, fast, and direct way to ride, with unique braking feel and riding behavior. It appeals to many urban riders and racers, but it requires attention to safety, maintenance, and local laws.