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Global Fixed-Gear Cycling Events(That You Can Actually Enter)

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How Fast Can a Bike Go? From 60 MPH to 183 MPH World Records

A bunch of cyclists in a brevet race.

What Is a Brevet? The Long-Distance Cycling Challenge You’ve Never Heard Of

Image of a man spray painting a bike frame.

How to Paint a Bike Frame: DIY Bike Makeover for Under $100 in 4 Easy Steps

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10 Best Vitamins and Minerals for Cyclists: Essential Supplements to Boost Performance

Image of police officer giving a summons to biker.

NYC Bike Laws: 16 Rules You Need to Know (2025 Update)

Image of a man in a bike shop.

4 Best Fixed Gear Bike Shops in Brooklyn NYC (2025)

A man rides a fixed gear bike in profile rendered in black and white halftone against a minimalist cream background.

3 Best Fixed Gear Bikes You Can Buy (For Beginners) in 2025

Image of man looking at pedalstrap.

Foot Retention for Fixed Gear Bikes: Different Types & How to use Them (And Why You Actually Need It)

Image of a fixed gear cyclist doing a wheelie on a fixie.

What Is Fixed-Gear Freestyle? (And Why Track Riders Think It’s Stupid)

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

Culture & Community

Global Fixed-Gear Cycling Events(That You Can Actually Enter)

From Red Hook Crit's urban chaos to underground alleycats and velodrome glory—discover the racing events that define fixed gear culture worldwide.
Read more

Tricks & Performance

How Fast Can a Bike Go? From 60 MPH to 183 MPH World Records

The wild history of bicycle speed records—from Mile-a-Minute Murphy's 1899 train draft to Denise Mueller-Korenek's 183.9 mph dragster run.
Read more

Culture & Community

What Is a Brevet? The Long-Distance Cycling Challenge You’ve Never Heard Of

A brevet is a timed, self-supported cycling endurance event from 200-1200km. Learn why thousands of riders tackle these challenging rides with no prizes or rankings—just bragging rights.
Read more

Maintenance & Repairs

How to Paint a Bike Frame: DIY Bike Makeover for Under $100 in 4 Easy Steps

Your fixie looks rough? Paint it yourself for under $100. This no-BS guide shows you exactly how to prep, paint, and protect your frame—mistakes included.
Read more

Health & Wellness

10 Best Vitamins and Minerals for Cyclists: Essential Supplements to Boost Performance

Discover the 10 best vitamins and minerals cyclists actually need—not marketing hype. Learn which supplements boost performance, prevent deficiency, and when food beats pills.
Read more

Laws & Regulations

NYC Bike Laws: 16 Rules You Need to Know (2025 Update)

Got a ticket for NYC cycling? These 10 shocking bike laws could get your fixie confiscated or land you with a $300 fine. Learn what NYPD actually enforces.
Read more

Culture & Community

4 Best Fixed Gear Bike Shops in Brooklyn NYC (2025)

There's no shortage of bike shops in Brooklyn, But who's best? here are our picks for the five best fixie bike shops in Brooklyn.
Read more

Bikes & Parts

3 Best Fixed Gear Bikes You Can Buy (For Beginners) in 2025

This guide breaks down the top three fixed gear bikes beginners should consider if you want reliable and performance without headaches.
Read more

Accessories & Apparel

Foot Retention for Fixed Gear Bikes: Different Types & How to use Them (And Why You Actually Need It)

Explore the benefits of foot retention for fixed-gear cycling and boost your ride's safety and efficiency.
Read more

Tricks & Performance

What Is Fixed-Gear Freestyle? (And Why Track Riders Think It’s Stupid)

Fixed-gear freestyle turns track bikes into street toys for BMX-style tricks. Learn what FGFS is, how it differs from regular fixed gear riding, and what bike you actually need.
Read more

Bikes & Parts

How to Choose Fixed Gear Bike Tires (2025) Buyers Guide for Street & Track Wheels

Choosing fixed gear tires isn't about finding the "best" option—it's about matching rubber to how you actually ride. Here's exactly what matters and what doesn't.
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Bikes & Parts

Gravel Bike vs Fixed Gear Bike: Which Is Best For Your in Riding Style?(2025)

Fixie or gravel bike? Stop overthinking it. We break down the real differences in cost, terrain, and maintenance so you can pick the right bike for how you actually ride.
Read more
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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.

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