About

Welcome to Brooklyn Fixed Gear, your go-to online destination for all things cycling, with a focus on fixed gear and single-speed bikes! Our mission is to equip you with expert advice, a supportive community, and a wealth of educational resources, all centered around our collective passion for riding fixed.

From the founder

Bradley Knight co-founded Brooklyn Fixed Gear in 2017 to inspire others to start riding fixed.

Having been a rider for years, I had many questions and a deep desire to document my experiences. That’s what ignited the inception of Brooklyn Fixed Gear. I sought to create a storehouse of knowledge that answered all my questions about cycling and fixed-gear bikes. Each day presents new inquiries, and every day, I seek the best answer and document it here. I hope you will find my little website valuable in your cycling journey

Bradley Knight

What we offer

At Brooklyn Fixed Gear, we serve as your reliable guide to all aspects of cycling and fixed-gear biking. Our platform offers a wide array of content and resources:

  • Expert Tips & Guidance: Enhance your biking skills with advice on riding techniques, maintenance, gear selection, and more.
  • Inspirational Stories: Learn from fellow cyclists who have turned their passion into a lifestyle.
  • Bear Reviews: Benefit from our comprehensive product reviews and suggestions, assisting you in choosing the best gear for your biking needs.
  • Community: Connect with our vibrant online community of cycling enthusiasts to share experiences, ask questions, and find inspiration for your next ride.
  •  Bike setups: Take virtual tours of our carefully curated selection of bike builds from our thriving community.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just starting out, Brooklyn Fixed Gear supports you in achieving your cycling goals. We’re dedicated to providing the tools, knowledge, and motivation you need to embrace this fulfilling hobby.

So, get your helmet, saddle up, and join us on this exciting journey. We’re thrilled to welcome you to the Brooklyn Fixed Gear community!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Fixed Gear Focus Gear is your source for fixie, single-speed, & track bike content. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions to regarding fixed-gear cycling.

A fixed gear bike (or "fixie") is a bicycle where the rear cog is directly connected to the rear wheel with no freewheel mechanism. This means the pedals always move when the wheels are moving—you can't coast. When you pedal forward, you go forward. When you pedal backward, you go backward. This direct connection gives you complete control over your speed and creates a unique riding experience that many cyclists find more connected and engaging than traditional bikes.

Riders love fixed gear bikes for their simplicity, low maintenance, and pure riding feel. With fewer components (no derailleurs, shifters, or complex drivetrain), there's less to break and maintain. Many find the constant pedaling motion improves their pedal stroke efficiency and builds leg strength. Fixed gear bikes are also incredibly affordable, making them perfect for urban commuting, bike messengers, and anyone who wants a reliable daily rider. Plus, the minimalist aesthetic and customization options appeal to cycling enthusiasts who want a bike that reflects their personal style.

There's definitely a learning curve, but most people adapt within a few rides. The biggest adjustment is not being able to coast—your legs must keep moving. Start in an empty parking lot to get used to the constant pedaling and learn to slow down by resisting the pedals. Many beginners find that riding with at least a front brake helps build confidence while learning. After a week or two, the fixed gear motion becomes second nature and feels completely natural.

Legally and practically: yes, you should have at least a front brake. While experienced riders can slow down by resisting the pedals (called "skidding"), this technique isn't reliable for emergency stops and wears through tires quickly. Most jurisdictions require at least one brake on bicycles ridden on public roads. A front brake gives you much better stopping power and makes fixed gear riding safer and more practical, especially in traffic or when riding in wet conditions.

Both bikes have one gear, but that's where similarities end. A single speed bike has a freewheel, meaning you can coast when you stop pedaling—just like a regular bike but without gear shifting. A fixed gear bike locks the cog to the wheel, so the pedals must always move when the bike is moving. Many fixed gear bikes come with flip-flop hubs that let you switch between fixed and freewheel modes by flipping the rear wheel around, giving you the best of both worlds.

Absolutely! Fixed gear bikes are actually excellent for beginners because of their simplicity. With no gears to shift or complicated components to maintain, new riders can focus on basic cycling skills. The constant pedaling motion naturally teaches smooth pedal technique and bike handling. Start with a flip-flop hub so you can practice on the freewheel side first, then switch to fixed when you're ready. Many cycling coaches recommend fixed gear bikes for winter training because they develop efficient pedaling habits that carry over to all types of riding.