Lately, it feels like the atmosphere of "road bike or bust" has mellowed out a bit. It's at times like these that I spot a distinctively different bike zipping through the city, sliding its tires sideways and making quick turns. You know what I'm talking about, right? A fixed-gear bike. And I'm curious about it. Why is that? Shall we investigate together?

What is a true fixed-gear bike?

Originally, a fixed-gear bike (piste bike) refers to a bicycle designed specifically for track racing. In Japan, this is keirin racing. Let's take a look at what kind of bike it is.

Reference: KEIRIN GUIDE Official Website

 It's interesting that while road bikes are dominated by aluminum and carbon, keirin racers seem to exclusively use chromoly frames. Even with minor improvements to frames and parts, their appearance hasn't evolved much from older models. Why is this?

This is because all parts used on bikes for keirin racing must be certified by the Japan Keirin Autorace Foundation (JKA), formerly the Japan Bicycle Promotion Institute. The purpose of this regulation is to ensure that "the bikes are durable and won't break during a race." 

Most parts are designated by a single company, and only frames from certified builders can be used, with strict regulations. The weight of the bike is typically around 7-8 kg. This system is designed to ensure that the outcome of a race is purely based on the rider's skill. Furthermore, brakes are not permitted by regulation.

ICAN Track Bike - Learn more

 Fixed-gear bikes for city use

These "true" fixed-gear bikes cannot be used for actual city riding. This is because they lack brake mounts and cannot be fitted with brakes. Fixed-gear bikes without brakes were once used in cities and caused problems, but they are now prohibited. What we can use in the city are so-called "racer replicas." Prices vary, but many are cheaper than road bikes, with entry-level models costing around 50,000 yen, mid-range models 70,000-80,000 yen, and even high-end ones rarely exceeding 100,000 yen.

Characteristics of Fixed-gear bikes

The biggest characteristic is that, unlike road bikes, they have no derailleur, making them single-speed. The gear ratio is around 2.5 to 2.8. Compared to road bikes (1.22 to 4.82) and keirin racers (around 4.0), this is a mid-range gear ratio. (Gear ratio = front gear / rear gear. A smaller value means lighter pedaling)

Another characteristic is the rear wheel hub. Besides the freewheel found on regular bicycles, there is also the fixed gear, which is original to fixed-gear bikes. This means the wheel and crank are directly connected, so the pedals are always turning as long as the bike is moving, which can be terrifying for beginners. Therefore, most fixed-gear bikes used for city riding utilize a freewheel.

In reality, a fixed gear makes it difficult to start from a standstill, and the pedals continue to turn even if you pick up speed downhill. Similarly, if you carelessly lean the bike into a turn, the spinning pedals could crash into the ground. Frankly, it's dangerous.

In other words, fixed gears offer very few practical advantages, yet they have passionate supporters. This is due to the direct feeling and peculiar lightness that comes from the direct connection between the gear and crank. Once you get used to it, the enjoyment is immense.

There's also something called a double cog, which allows both fixed and freewheel gears to be installed. For the curious, this might be a good way to try both. Of course, even with a freewheel, you can still fully enjoy its benefits. The lack of a derailleur, the ample gear thickness, and high rigidity are some of the contributing factors.

Bikes with derailleurs have a slightly offset rear wheel, and the absence of this might also contribute to the fixed-gear bike's agile feel.

The handlebars are typically narrow drop bars. The brake levers are mounted on the bar section, which is usually where you hold them. Besides these, bar-type, bullhorn-type, and road bike handlebars can also be used, allowing for a relatively free riding style. The brakes and tires are almost identical to those on road bikes.

ICAN Track Bike - Learn more

How to enjoy a fixed-gear bike

First, there are four ways to stop.

① Apply the brakes normally

② Backpedal (with a fixed gear, pedal against the rotation - not very effective)

③ Foot brake (press down on the rear wheel with one foot. Zero practicality - damages shoes)

④ Skid (shift weight to the front wheel, lock the rear brake, and slide sideways)

Methods ② to ④ have zero practical use other than braking, but fixed-gear bikes allow for tricks, similar to BMX. This is where ② to ④ create a spectacle. You can find trick techniques in videos on YouTube and other platforms. BMX videos can also be helpful.

For city riding, a kickstand would be desirable, but a center stand can be attached discreetly. It requires some care in use, as it might interfere depending on the crank angle, but this is a small price to pay for elegance.

As for fixed-gear bike fashion, there are no strict rules like with road bikes. It suits both casual and street wear. Skateboarding shoes are recommended.

Note that fixed-gear bikes, like road bikes and BMXs, do not have chain guards. When wearing wider pants, it's a good idea to roll up the cuff of your right leg. A cruising speed of about 20km/h is typical. The top sprint speed is around 30km/h. They are not ideal for long distances due to the lack of gears. Why fixed-gear bikes, after all?

The simplicity of not having a derailleur is very appealing. Because of its simplicity, it is lightweight and agile. Because of its simplicity, there are no unnecessary complexities in its structure. Maintenance is also relatively easy. With fewer parts, there's a lower chance of breakage. The price is also relatively affordable. Most fixed-gear bikes you see in the city have their own unique customizations and riding styles, emanating a different kind of aura. The coolness factor is also undeniable.

ICAN Track Bike - Learn more

Summary

 So, what do you think? A vehicle with a hint of danger—men (and some women, pardon me) are weak to such things. The thrill of experiencing a bit of the extraordinary in daily life is also profoundly satisfying. Fixed-gear bikes bring such a worldview into our everyday lives. I've listed some fixed-gear bike manufacturers below. If any catch your eye, be sure to check them out.

FUJI　SURLY　MASI　GIOS　MONGOOSE　GT　RAINBOW　ARROW　SCHWIN　CREATEBIKES　FOCALE44　ICAN　and so on

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