If you live in New York City, youโve probably seen a bike messenger flying past you more than a few times. Odds are they are riding a fixed gear bike.
Fixed gear bikes are very popular in New York City, especially in Brooklyn, but whatโs so great about riding fixed, and why do we believe every New Yorker needs a fixed gear bike?
A fixed gear bike is an excellent transportation option in any city, but it is especially well-suited for New York City. The maneuverability, and reliability of a fixed gear bike is the perfect way to avoid traffic and get across town quickly. And New York is the mostly flat landscape is optimal for single-geared bikes.
If you live in NYC and are considering a new bike, then strap in because, In just a few minutes, you will learn five reasons why fixed gear bikes are perfect for New York. By the end of this article, you will know what a fixed gear bike is, how it works, and why you need to pick one up today!
Editorโs note: This article was updated on February 13, 2021, to include additional information regarding cycling in New York City.
What Is a fixed gear bike
Fixed gear bikes or โfixies,โ as they are often called, are bicycles with a single direct rear-wheel-drive mechanism. The motion can be forward or reverse, depending on the pedal direction. The fixed gear mechanism does not allow the rear wheel to operate freely, or โcoast,โ like most other bikes. The bikeโs speed is determined by how fast the rider can pedal.
With that out of the way, here are just a few reasons why riding fixed in the city is not only practical but also economical.ย
1. Fixed gear bikes are low maintenance
A fixed-gear bike uses a minimum set of components. There is no derailleur to move the chain to another gear as one would find on a bike with multiple speeds. The single gear is fixed to the rear wheel and controlled by the pedals.ย
Because they have fewer components, fixed-gear bikes are easier to maintain and are less expensive when it comes to repairs. You only need to worry about lubricating the chain drive and ensuring other fixtures are tightened and secure. Parts requiring replacement are limited to brake pads due to normal wear and tear.
2. Riding fixed save you money
The most obvious reason why fixed gear bikes are great for New York City is the cost. Fixed gear bikes are very affordable. You can grab a decent one for only $200.ย At that price It wonโt be a great bike, but still.
Road bikes and mountain bikes can be far more expensive because youโre paying for all the bells and whistles those bikes are made for. But are you on the mountain? Are you participating in the Tour de France? Probably not. So why are you wasting your money on features you donโt need?ย
And, since there are fewer parts to deal with, there are fewer breakdowns and less maintenance. so will save money on maintenance as well. The mountain bike guys canโt say that.ย
You also save money on transportation costs. No more cans and subway fares for you! Take a look at this article on how riding a bike can save you a ton of money.
3. Crosstown traffic
A fixed gear bike is particularly useful if you live in manhattan. Subways and buses usually run north to south, thatโs great and all, but what about going crosstown. Anyone whoโs been in manhattan for more than a day will tell you that going crosstown is a nightmare.ย
Other than the seven subway lines at 42st and the L train at 14th, there arenโt any trains that run perpendicular to manhattan, so you will end up taking the bus. Therein lies another problem, traffic is so dense in New York City that you could probably walk to your destination and still arrive faster than the bus.
So, any opportunity to avoid crosstown traffic, skip the expensive parking lots, and overcrowded subways are welcome.ย
A bike is a perfect solution. With a bike, you can bypass the heavy traffic and get to your destination ten times faster. And with its light and slim profile, a fixed gear is the perfect bike for the job.
Need more convincing? Check out our recent detailing ten reasons why fixed gear bikes are the best bikes for commuting to the city.
4. Easily stores in your apartment
The simplicity of a fixie also makes it easy to store. You can even hang a fixed gear on your wall. Or, take off the front wheel for even more storage options. The possibilities are virtually endless. New York City has a lot to offer, but cheap storage space is not on the list.
Got a tiny apartment? Check out our post where we give you five creative ways you can store your fixie in your apartment. And If youโre looking for a way to mount your bike to the wall, consider the options below.
5. Great for walk-up apartment buildings
If you live in the city, you already know that not all apartment buildings have elevators. And If you have a big bulky road or mountain bike, walking up and down the stairs could be a real pain.ย ย
Fixed gear bikes are super lightweight. You can pick them up with one hand easily, so you donโt have to break your back just to go out for a ride. If you live in an apartment building without an elevator, a fixed gear bike is definitely the way to go.ย
Bonus: Maneuverability
Fixed gear bikes are loved by bike messengers because they are lightweight, simple, and fast.ย This allows the rider to focus on maneuvering through New York traffic quickly and easily.
Acceleration is fast, and they can maintain their speed at will. An added bonus is that you can balance while waiting for the traffic light to change.ย
Need more convincing of a fixieโs lightweight and maneuverability? Check out this video from Terry Barentsenโs YouTube channel. Look at how sharp these turns are. Itโs hypnotizing.
Conclusion
Hopefully, by now, you see that there is no better bike to own in New York City than a fixed gear bike. No matter what borough you live in.ย
If you want to dive deeper into the world of fixed gear cycling, we wrote a full guide on everything you need to know about fixed gear cycling and culture.
In this article, we covered some reasons why every new yorker should get their hands on a fixed gear bike. Here are some key takeaways:
Key takeaways
- Fixies are low maintenance
- They cost less and can save you money
- They are perfect for getting across-town
- You can easily store a fixed gear bike in your apartment
- Ideal for buildings without elevators
- They are fast, light and agile
So, do you have anything youโd add to our list? Let us know in the comments below (we read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, check out our full blog for more tips and tricks on everything fixie. Thanks for reading, and stay fixed.
