Latest posts

Fixed Gear Focus is your source for fixie, single-speed, & track bike content. Read our full blog for tricks, tips, and gear reviews.

Latest posts

Bikes & Parts

5 Reasons Why Fixies Are the Best Bikes for New Yorkers

If you live in New York, you need to read this post, because I am about to give you five reasons why every New Yorker needs a fixed gear bike.

Health & Wellness

Cycling vs. Running: Which Is Better? (7 Reasons Cycling Is)

Running may be the most common form of exercise, but is it the best? Here are seven reasons why recycling is better than running for exercise.

Maintenance & Repairs

How To Fix Loose Bike Pedals: 4 Easy Steps (With Video Instructions)

In this article, you will learn about bike pedals: why they fall off or come loose, and how to fix bike pedals so you can have a safer ride.

Tricks & Performance

Cycling and Coffee: Does Caffeine Improve Performance? (Answered)

Many cyclists believe caffeine is beneficial to their performance. Here's a look at the science behind why coffee improves cycling performance.

Health & Wellness

Which Muscles Are Used When Cycling: The 5 Most Used for Biking

Have you ever wondered what muscles you use when cycling? Here are the 5 most commonly used muscles when cycling.

Maintenance & Repairs

How to Adjust Bicycle V Brakes (Video Step by Step guide)

In this article, you will learn about bike brakes, their importance, and how to adjust them so they'll work perfectly every time.

Accessories & Apparel

5 Best Bike Messenger Bags: And How to Choose One (2022)

In this article, we explain what makes a good bike messenger bag, and list five of the best available today, so you can ride in comfort and style.

Health & Wellness

Does Cycling Give You a Bigger Butt? How Riding Works Your Glutes

Does cycling really give you a bigger butt? The answer might surprise you! Read on to find out the benefits of cycling for your body and your booty.

Culture & Community

The 13 Most Bike-Friendly Cities in America for Fixed-Gear Cyclists

Want to know which cities are the most bike-friendly in America? Look no further! Here's my top 10 cities for fixed gear and single speed cycling.

Bikes & Parts

Steel vs. Aluminum Frame: Which Material Is Best for Your Bike (Pros & Cons)

Choosing a steel or aluminum frame can be a tough decision. This article will compare the two and help you decide which one is best for you.

Maintenance & Repairs

How to Replace Your Lockring & Cog: Removing Fixie Sprocket

This article will show you what a fixie cog is, when you should replace it, and how to replace it. Instructional video included!

Maintenance & Repairs

How to True a Bike Wheel? (Step by Step Guide for Beginners)

In this article, you will learn what a bike wheel is, what it means to true a bike wheel, and how to use truing tools so you can ride safely.

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.