Single speed bikes

For simplicity and style, you can't beat a single speed bike. One gear means no derailleur, no gear changes and less maintenance.

As well as the derailleur, single speed bikes dispense with the weight of rear cassettes, gear shifters, cables and extra chain links, giving extra weight savings. 

Also, because there is no lateral (side to side) movement, less stress is placed upon the chain, which means it doesn't deteriorate as quickly as a geared bike.

In fact, some single speed aficionados think these bikes are the truest, purest form of cycling.

"I still feel that variable gears are only for people over forty-five. Isn't it better to triumph by the strength of your muscles than by the artifice of a derailleur? We are getting soft... As for me, give me a fixed gear!" Henri Desgrange, L'Équipe article of 1902

Fixed or free wheel?

Fixed wheel bikes force the pedals (and your legs) around as the bicycle moves forwards. Free wheel hubs allow riders to coast, (ie to move along without having to pedal).

As arduous as they sound, fixed wheel bikes are great for fitness, with most spin classes using this type of technology. They are also used in track racing. The downside to a fixed wheel comes as revolution of the wheel continues to spin the pedals even when there's a need to slow down, for example when travelling downhill.

Some rear wheels come with free and fixed wheel hubs ("flip-flops") so you can switch your riding style based on the profile of your route (ie how hilly it's going to be).

The one advantage of fixed wheel hubs is the capacity for performing tricks, as the BÖIKZMÖIND movie below shows.

For more information

Bristol has a growing single-speed scene, with events and rides regularly taking place. Two useful websites exist for single speed enthusiasts:

• Bristol Alleycats
• Trackdropouts Bristol

A number of local bike shops stock single speed parts. Bristol Bike Workshop and Bristol Dropouts in particular have a large supply of both single speed bikes and accessories.