Imagine gliding through the city, feeling a direct connection to the road with every pedal stroke. That’s the magic of a fixie bike. But for many, the world of single-speed, fixed-gear bikes can feel a little… well, fixed. With so many styles and features, choosing your first (or next) fixie can be a confusing ride. Are you wondering about the difference between a track bike and a street fixie? Or maybe you’re curious about what makes them so simple yet so popular?
Navigating the options can feel overwhelming, leaving you wondering where to even start. You want a bike that’s fun, reliable, and looks cool, but the sheer variety can make it tough to pinpoint the perfect fit for your needs and budget. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you cut through the noise.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what makes a fixie bike tick. We’ll break down the essential components, explore different types of fixies, and offer tips to help you find the one that will bring a smile to your face on every ride. Get ready to discover the simple joys of fixed-gear cycling!
Our Top 5 Fixie Bikes Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Fixie Bikes Detailed Reviews
1. AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike for Women and Men
Rating: 9.1/10
The AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike is a stylish and practical choice for city riders. This unisex fixie bike comes in a cool 50 Black & Blue color. It’s designed for easy commuting and a fun riding experience. The flat handlebars offer comfort and control. Plus, the flip-flop hub means you can switch between fixed gear and freewheel riding. You get to choose how you want to pedal!
What We Like:
- Simplicity and Choice: The single-speed design makes riding straightforward. The flip-flop hub offers versatility, letting you choose between fixed gear or freewheel.
- Durable Frame: It has a high-tensile strength steel frame. This makes the bike tough and able to handle bumpy city streets.
- Ready to Ride: The bike comes 90% assembled. With the included tools, you can finish assembly in about 15 minutes.
- Complete Package: It includes 700 x 25C tires, 40mm deep-v rims, a KMC chain, freestyle pedals, and two sets of brakes for safety.
- Unisex Design and Sizing: It’s designed for both women and men and offers several size options based on height.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size Confirmation: Riders need to double-check their chosen size before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
This AVASTA fixie bike offers a great blend of style, durability, and rider choice for your daily travels. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for a straightforward and fun city bike.
2. AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike for Women and Men
Rating: 8.9/10
The AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike is a stylish and practical ride for anyone looking to navigate the city with ease. This unisex fixie bike, available in a sleek 50 Black & White, offers a simple yet effective way to get around. Its flat handlebar design adds to its cool urban look and makes steering straightforward. Plus, the innovative flip-flop hub lets you choose between a fixed gear for a direct connection to the road or a freewheel for coasting. You’re in control of how you ride!
What We Like:
- The single-speed design makes it super simple to operate, perfect for beginners or those who prefer less maintenance.
- You get two riding options thanks to the flip-flop hub – fixed gear or freewheel. You decide what’s best for your ride!
- The high-tensile strength steel frame is built tough. It can handle bumpy city streets and will last a long time.
- It comes with everything you need to get rolling: 700 x 25C tires, deep-v rims, a reliable KMC chain, and freestyle pedals.
- Safety is covered with two sets of brakes included.
- The bike arrives 90% assembled. You’ll only need about 15 minutes and some basic tools to finish putting it together.
- It’s designed to be lightweight, making it easy to carry and maneuver.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the steel frame is durable, some riders might prefer an even lighter material like aluminum for quicker acceleration.
- The 40mm deep-v rims look cool, but they might add a bit of weight compared to shallower rims.
- It would be helpful if the included assembly tools were slightly more robust for easier tightening.
This AVASTA fixie bike offers a fantastic blend of simplicity, durability, and style for your daily commute. With its adaptable riding options and easy setup, it’s a solid choice for urban cyclists.
3. AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike for Women and Men
Rating: 9.4/10
The AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike is a stylish and practical choice for anyone looking for a reliable ride. This unisex fixie bike boasts a lightweight design and a flat handlebar for an easy and comfortable experience. Its versatile flip-flop hub lets you switch between fixed gear and freewheel modes, giving you full control on your commute.
What We Like:
- The single-speed design with a flat handlebar makes riding simple and chic.
- You can choose between fixed gear and freewheel with the flip-flop hub, offering riding freedom.
- The high-strength carbon steel frame absorbs bumps for a smooth and long-lasting ride.
- Premium components like 700 x 25C tires and deep V rims ensure good performance.
- The bike comes 90% assembled, making setup quick and easy, usually in about 15 minutes.
- Multiple size options are available to fit riders of different heights.
- It comes in a striking black color, adding to its urban appeal.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it includes dual brakes for safety, some riders might prefer more advanced braking systems for city riding.
- The “50 Color Black” in the title is a bit confusing; it’s black, but the “50” might suggest other color options not detailed.
This AVASTA bike is a solid option for city dwellers seeking a dependable and fashionable mode of transportation. Its ease of use and customizable ride make it a great companion for your daily adventures.
4. Throne Cycles TRKLRD Complete Alloy 6061 Frame with Carbon Alloy Fork Single Speed Bike
Rating: 9.0/10
The Throne Cycles TRKLRD Complete Alloy 6061 Frame with Carbon Alloy Fork Single Speed Bike, Track Lord Fixie Series (Black Stealth, 49) is a sleek and fast ride. This bike is built for the streets and for riders who want a no-fuss, high-performance fixie. Its black stealth color looks super cool. The frame is made of strong alloy, and the fork is lightweight carbon. This bike is perfect for cruising around town or hitting up the local track.
What We Like:
- The TRKLRD Alloy 6062 frame is strong and light.
- The full carbon fork makes steering feel sharp and fast.
- The full carbon seat post adds to the bike’s lightness and comfort.
- Novatec wheels with bladed spokes look awesome and are built to last.
- Sealed bearing bottom bracket means less maintenance and smoother pedaling.
- The Kenda 23c tires offer good grip for city riding.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included platform pedals are basic; upgrading would be a good idea for serious riders.
- For some, the 48T chainring might be a bit high for very hilly areas without a gear change option.
This Throne Cycles TRKLRD is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a stylish and performance-driven single-speed bike. It offers a great ride for its price point.
5. Golden Cycles Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike – Perfect Urban Commuter Bicycle with Front and Rear Brakes – Ideal for Teens and Adults – The Bike Comes in Different Sizes (45cm
Rating: 9.2/10
The Golden Cycles Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike, specifically the 45cm Red Savage model, is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish way to get around town. It’s built for both teens and adults and makes a great commuter bike.
What We Like:
- This bike is a versatile commuter, perfect for heading to work or school.
- Safety is a big plus with both front and rear brakes included, giving you good stopping power.
- You can show off your style with its cool, stylish colors. The Red Savage is a real head-turner!
- The fixed gear design provides a smooth and efficient ride, great for daily trips.
- It comes with 700c wheels, which are standard and work well for road riding.
- The bike is available in multiple sizes, so you can find one that fits you well.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a single-speed bike, it won’t be ideal for steep hills or if you need to change gears for different terrains.
- While stylish, the fixed gear might take some getting used to for riders new to this type of bike.
- Users need to be very careful to select the correct size. The standover heights provided are helpful, but double-checking your measurements is key.
This Golden Cycles fixie offers a fun and efficient way to navigate your city. It’s a solid option for anyone seeking a dependable and good-looking commuter.
Your Guide to Awesome Fixie Bikes
Fixie bikes, also known as fixed-gear bikes, are super cool and simple. They have only one gear and no freewheel. This means when the wheels turn, the pedals turn too! It’s like a direct connection between you and the road. They are popular for their minimalist style and fun riding experience.
Why Choose a Fixie?
Fixies offer a unique riding feel. They demand more rider input, making you feel more connected to your bike. They are also very lightweight and easy to maintain because they have fewer parts.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a fixie, keep these features in mind:
1. Frame Material
- Steel: Steel frames are strong and offer a comfortable ride. They absorb vibrations well, making rough roads feel smoother. Steel bikes are usually a bit heavier, but they are very durable.
- Aluminum: Aluminum frames are lighter than steel. This makes the bike quicker and easier to maneuver. Aluminum bikes can feel a bit stiffer, meaning you might feel more bumps on the road.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber is the lightest and strongest material. Bikes with carbon fiber frames are very fast and responsive. However, they are also the most expensive.
2. Wheelset
- Rim Depth: Deeper rims look stylish and can be more aerodynamic. Shallower rims are lighter and easier to handle in windy conditions.
- Hubs: Look for smooth-spinning hubs. These are the parts that connect the wheels to the bike frame. Good hubs make pedaling feel effortless.
3. Drivetrain (Gearing)
- Fixed Cog: This is the gear that is directly attached to the rear wheel. It can’t spin freely.
- Flip-Flop Hub: Many fixies have a flip-flop hub. This means you can flip the rear wheel around to switch between a fixed cog and a freewheel (which allows coasting). This gives you versatility.
4. Brakes
- Front Brake: Most fixies come with a front brake. This is important for safety, especially if you’re new to riding fixed gear.
- Rear Brake: Some fixies might have a rear brake option, but many riders rely on the front brake and their own pedaling control.
Important Materials
The materials used in your fixie affect its performance and feel.
- Frame: As mentioned, steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber are common. Each offers a different balance of weight, comfort, and strength.
- Handlebars: Drop bars offer multiple hand positions for longer rides. Riser bars are more upright and offer better control in city traffic.
- Tires: Wider tires offer more comfort and grip. Narrower tires are faster but offer less shock absorption.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a fixie bike great or not so great.
Quality Enhancers:
- Smooth Bearings: Good bearings in the hubs and bottom bracket (where the pedals attach) make the bike roll and spin smoothly.
- Well-Built Wheels: Strong, true wheels (meaning they are perfectly round and don’t wobble) are crucial for a good ride.
- Durable Components: High-quality cranksets, pedals, and chains last longer and perform better.
- Clean Welds (Steel/Aluminum): Nicely finished welds on steel or aluminum frames show good craftsmanship.
Quality Reducers:
- Wobbly Wheels: Wheels that aren’t true are annoying and can be dangerous.
- Stiff or Grinding Bearings: These make pedaling harder and don’t feel good.
- Cheap Components: Low-quality parts wear out quickly and can break.
- Poorly Finished Frame: Rough welds or bad paint jobs can indicate a less carefully made bike.
User Experience and Use Cases
Riding a fixie is a unique experience.
- City Commuting: Fixies are fantastic for getting around town. Their simplicity means less maintenance. They are nimble and quick in traffic.
- Track Cycling: This is where fixed-gear bikes originated. They are used on velodromes for racing.
- Leisure Riding: Many people enjoy the simple, connected feeling of riding a fixie on bike paths or scenic routes.
- Learning Curve: It takes practice to get used to riding without freewheeling. You learn to control your speed by resisting the pedal rotation. This can be very rewarding!
Frequently Asked Questions About Fixie Bikes
Q: What is a fixie bike?
A: A fixie bike, or fixed-gear bike, has only one gear and no freewheel. When the wheels spin, the pedals always spin too.
Q: Do I need brakes on a fixie?
A: While some experienced riders can stop using just leg power, most fixies come with at least a front brake for safety. It’s highly recommended, especially for beginners.
Q: Is it hard to ride a fixie?
A: There’s a learning curve. You need to get used to the pedals always moving. It takes practice, but many find it fun and rewarding.
Q: Can I coast on a fixie?
A: Not on a true fixed-gear setup. However, many fixies have a “flip-flop hub” which lets you switch to a freewheel, allowing you to coast.
Q: What are the benefits of riding a fixie?
A: Fixies are simple, lightweight, and require less maintenance. They offer a direct connection to the road and a unique riding feel.
Q: Are fixies good for hills?
A: Hills can be challenging on a fixie, especially steep ones. You can’t coast, so you have to pedal all the way up. Some riders use them for training on moderate hills.
Q: How much do fixie bikes cost?
A: Prices vary widely. You can find very basic fixies for a few hundred dollars, while high-end models with premium materials can cost over a thousand dollars.
Q: What kind of maintenance do fixies need?
A: Fixies need less maintenance than geared bikes because they have fewer parts. Regular chain lubrication and checking tire pressure are key.
Q: Can I switch gears on a fixie?
A: No, a true fixie has only one gear. If you want multiple gears, you would need a different type of bike.
Q: Are fixies safe for beginners?
A: With a front brake and some practice, beginners can learn to ride fixies safely. It’s wise to start in a safe, open area.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!