How to Choose the Best Fixed Gear Bike Chains for Your Ride (Expert Tips)
Discover how to choose fixed-gear bike chains with this comprehensive guide, covering key factors, popular brands, and helpful tips to help you with your purchase.
Welcome to our Bikes & Parts category page, where we dive deep into the world of fixed-gear cycling. From frames to wheels, pedals to handlebars, we’ll take you through the various parts that make up a fixed-gear bike and help you understand how they all work together.
Plus, we’ll share our top picks for the best fixed-gear bikes on the market, as well as the latest trends and innovations in the cycling industry. So, whether you’re looking to upgrade your current ride or build your dream bike from scratch, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s roll!
Discover how to choose fixed-gear bike chains with this comprehensive guide, covering key factors, popular brands, and helpful tips to help you with your purchase.
Discover the world of bike handlebars with this ultimate guide, covering types, selection, and proper fit for a more comfortable ride.
Discover how to build your own fixed gear bike with our beginner-friendly guide, covering essential components, assembly tips, and customization options.
Learn how to choose the perfect bottom bracket for your fixed gear bike, understand the reasons for replacing your bottom bracket.
Are you looking for the best fixie brakes? Look no further. In this article, we will guide you through the different types of brakes and their features.
Your handlebars are a major contact point between you and the bike. In this article, we will discuss the three best fixed gear handlebars.
Pedals are an essential part of cycling. If you are in the market for pedals, I will show you my top picks for the best fixie platform pedals of 2022.
Everyone needs a good chain! This article will go over each of these factors in detail so that you can make the best choice for your cycling needs.
Ever wondered why track cyclists ride bikes with no brakes at 50+ mph on near-vertical banking? Discover the physics, the danger, and whether you should try it.
Tired of blowing through tires in two weeks? These 5 proven fixie tires (from $15-80) actually survive skidding, glass, and brutal city streets.
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.