Top 7 Best Fixie Bikes (Reviews And Buying Guide)

Top 7 Best Fixie Bikes Of 2022 (Reviews And Buying Guide)

It is no secret that there is a huge debate about what the best bike is for road cycling. Though many cyclists swear by their road bikes, I have personally become a huge fan of my fixie bike in the last few years.

I find that the simplicity of a fixie bike has offered some key advantages. They are great in the winter and much more versatile than you might think.

Top 7 Best Fixie Bikes (Reviews And Buying Guide)

I also find that a fixie bike provides a type of workout that I cannot get with a lot of the road bikes that are on the market. With me saying this, you might find yourself asking an important question.

Instance 1

BEST OVERALL

01

41+1RK3fakL. SL160

6KU Urban Fixie Bike

Our Rating:

BEST FOR VALUE

02

51TPLbVAleL. SL160

Schwinn Fixie Bike

Our Rating:

IT IS ALSO GOOD

03

State Co. Urban Bike

Our Rating:

What is A Fixie Bike?

Fixie bike is short for a fixed-gear bicycle. These bikes have a drivetrain that does not include a freewheel mechanism. Fixie bikes have historically been known as the standard cycle for track racing.

In recent years, their popularity has begun to increase as many cyclists have switched to them in place of a road bike. Fixie bikes have become particularly popular with urban cyclists and are known for being a great option during the winter months.

Anyways, being relatively a new concept makes it prone to being a bit expensive, and not every person would want to shell that amount of money on a bike.

However, You can read all about fixie bikes and the different accessories needed to run such vehicles through this guide.

 Top 7 Best Fixed-gear Bikes Review

When you have to compromise on price, you really need to cross-check every feature and ensure safety. Yes, you can get safety features in affordable bikes as well, as long as you are choosing the right brand.

01. Schwinn Kedzie Best Single-Speed Fixie Road Bike

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If within a budget, the one thing that concerns you the most is durability, then you need to check for a sturdy framework. Luckily, this model from Schwinn can be the one that you were on the hunt for. 

Framework

This bike is amazing if you want the best pick to hold its shape and last longer. It has an all-steel framework to ensure consistency throughout the framework.

Being steel built makes the bike stable and fit for racing even. As a fixed gear vehicle, this bike has only one speed. And its 46T by 18T drivetrain boasts a flip-flop hub for easy connection. 

So, the bike does not face any issue in redirecting the force directly to the chain. Besides that, it also has 32H alloy rims that easily support 700c wheels for superior compatibility with the whole system.

Usage

Riding this vehicle is super easy, thanks to the caliper brakes that help in precision stops. Moreover, it has the classic Schwinn seats and proper grips for a comfortable ride.

Stylish

The best part about this bike is how it still keeps it cool at a moderate price. The framework comes in bright blue and red and also has gold detailing around the rim.

With so much happening, people can barely figure out the actual cost of the thing!

Pros
  • Comes with alloy caliper brakes
  • Comfortable grips on handle and seat
  • Sports a durable framework and form
  • 700c durable bike
  • Available in two stylish colors
Cons
  • Setting up the bike needs professional help

02. Schwinn Stites Fixie Adult Commuter Road Bike

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Sometimes it is easy to look past important features such as a fork. It connects the entire bike to the front wheel, which certainly means that it is an important feature. Unfortunately, it can also be a defective feature. 

Fork

Thankfully the fork on this model is not faulty. It has the perfect shape to keep the front wheel in check while still giving it full mobility to move. Thus, it becomes responsive and allows you to move about with ease.

Like classic Schwinn products, this one is also very sturdy and durable, thanks to the all-steel hardcore construction. The frame is not too hefty and not very light either. It works fantastically for the best fixed gear bike.

Moreover, it can work with the 46T by 18T drivetrain. The single-speed mode keeps the rider on their toes constantly, and having this steel frame is an excellent choice.

Comfort

This bike is amazing when it comes to usage and comfort. The caliper hand brakes on the front and rear ends allow the user to flip the rear wheel. As a result, you can coast whenever you want. Besides that, it also comes with a comfortable seat and handles.

Style

The shape and design of this model are like the previous one. However, if the bright colors are not something that you want, you can easily go with this. The white and black monotones of the bike make it look classic and mature.

Pros
  • Easy drivetrain
  • Allows to coast
  • Responsive fork system
  • Sturdy steel framework
  • Classic look
Cons
  • The brake pads might have issues

03. GYZLZZB Fixie Single Speed Commuter City Road Bike

While traditional bikes always come pre-installed, you might find the case to be different for the perfect fixies. So, you might get bike that you love to death, but the installation process is a major headache. That does not seem like an ideal situation.

Installation

However, you will not face that issue with the GYZLZZB fixie. It will be helpful if you are a beginner and do not know much about bike assembly because this comes 90% pre-installed.

Rim-work

The remaining 10% will be quick as well. A prominent feature that is noticeable in this model is the rim. 

These rims are unlike traditional ones and have double-walled aluminum. It helps the wheel and the tire to bear the load of the bike easily.

Even with the double-wall, this bike remains 100 kg, which should be easy to pull with a single speed. Besides being durable, this factor also adds protection to the bike.

Fork

Due to having a bigger rim-work, the fork is smaller in size. But that does not stop it from providing stability and balance to the vehicle. In fact, it allows the bike to easily adapt to the reverse brake mechanism.

Design

This design aims to give you a retro feel with its mint-body and large fonts on the wheels. The seat also extends upwards by a lot, and the handle is a curved one.

Pros
  • Assembly does not take time
  • Double-walled aluminum rim
  • Rigid and stable fork
  • Retro design
  • Curved handle for better grip
Cons
  • Does not come with a traditional brake

04. State Bicycle Co. Contender II Premium Fixed Gear Bike

You must have heard of how fixed-gear bikes are getting more popular in the racing world. That is because you can measure the actual speed and skill of a rider with such vehicles. 

Usage

So, if you are also interested in racing with a fixie, this is one of the finest fixie bikes. It is a perfect racing model as it combines the best framework with a highly functional crankset.

With the SRAM S100 Track crank, you can easily harness your peddling power and channel it all to motion without wasting any energy.

This bike consists of Reynolds Chromoly steel, which makes it an absolute banger. It allows the vehicle to remain lightweight, which in turn helps the rider to peddle faster. 

But at the same time, the steel is extremely durable. It also features a 43 mm wheel-set, which has a deep-V design, all of which aids in racing.

Design

Immediately you will notice how the handle of this bike is wildly different from most handles you have seen. The handle curves down towards the front. That helps the rider get in a better position.

Besides that, it also has an aerodynamic level saddle for the ultimate comfort.

Protection

This product will last for a while since its core steel framework is so strong. All the other components, such as the alloy pedals, also make it stronger.

Pros
  • Convenient crankset
  • Sports sturdy Chromoly steel body
  • A unique handle
  • Top-notch seat
  • Perfect for racing
Cons
  • Not suitable for a daily commute

05. State Bicycle Co. Ashton Fixed Gear/Fixie Bike

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Many people shy-away from fixed-gear bikes because it needs constant peddling. That can be an excellent factor if you like to exercise, but most people might not.

However, if you wanted to free-ride using the best single speed bike, then we have something for you.

Coasting

Usually, since a rigid drive train means the hub and chain-set have direct coupling, the rider cannot stop peddling. If they do, that will cause the bike to stop.

However, thanks to its unique feature, you can coast with a single speed on this bike. The flip/flop hub comes in a new sealed bearing form, which gives you the freedom to switch gears and coast whenever you want.

Lightweight

The entire framework of the fixie bike is of steel, not just any steel. It boasts a 4130 chromyl frame, which is superior to most steel types. It keeps the bike extremely lightweight and also shields it from frequent harm.

Comfort

The handlebars on this vehicle come with deluxe bullhorn bar tape that offers it a soft look. The saddle is also padded, and for extra protection, you can easily halt using the radius brakes in the front and rear ends.

Design

This bike comes in a beautiful soft shade of crimson that looks very 50sā€™. The saddle, framework, and even the handles have a recurring color theme that makes this bike extremely stylish and classic.

Pros
  • Switch between fixed gear and coating
  • Sports an aesthetic theme
  • Comes with brakes
  • Lightweight frame
  • Bullhorn taped handle
Cons
  • Not suitable for racing

06. 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie

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If you like the idea of being able to shift the gears and coast at will, but want a best fixie bike that is lightweight, then meeting those criteria might be challenging.

However, do not be upset, as we have a model that fits the description. This bike model is as lightweight as it can get.

Lightweight

For multiple reasons, a bike might need to put on weight, and a top one is for durability. But by utilizing high-quality aluminum, the bike keeps its weight in check.

Flip/Flop 

The entire body, including the frame, has a lightweight status. It is a genius concept that some might consider as not a fixie, but you still can ride at single-speed, so you get a fixie’s benefits.

In this system, you can shift the gear from fixed and make it flexible. Thus, you can coast around corners or ride freely whenever. However, unlike regular bikes, you have to coast with limited speed.

Usage

The lightweight feature, along with free coasting, makes this model perfect for an urban setting. If you hit the stairs, just carry the bike, and if there is a corner, you can coast.

The installation is also fairly simple, making the model quite versatile.

Design

The exterior of this vehicle looks very slick and modern. It comes with a matte frame and a glossy fork, and the contrast looks beautiful. You also get to choose from 10 different color stories!

Pros
  • Lightweight frame
  • Perfect for an urban setting
  • Boasts flip/flop gears
  • Ten different color stories
  • Durable
Cons
  • The seat might be uncomfortable

07. Retrospec Harper Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Bike

510BrZQr7JS. SL500

Retrospec is a brand that is well-loved by many people in the sports community. It is exciting that the brand also has a line of the perfect fixie bikes, and you should know that these are some amazing quality bikes.

Smooth

You might think that an urban terrain is all smooth and glazed, but when you are on a bike, you do not strictly move on the road; you might hit some bumpy spots in the road, and for that, the bike has to be prepared.

Luckily, this model has 30mm deep-V rims to absorb the initial shock from any bump. The KMC chain, coupled with the free-style pedal, also helps in a smooth ride. 

The brand always takes safety seriously; and knowing the jeopardy in any road, they included high-quality Promax brakes. With the help of the brake, you can halt at a split second. The shock absorption also helps in reduced punctures.

Comfort

You will get a high-quality, hand-built steel frame in this bike, which can interchange between coasting and fixed gears. Moreover, it boasts a riser handlebar that helps you to stay up-right and reduces chances of back-aches.

Style

After getting so many cool features, having a bland look would be a shame. But you get two colors ā€“ orange and matte graphite to choose from. It is a perfect fusion of retro and urban style.

Pros
  • Amazing shock-absorption
  • Tig-welded steel frame
  • Promax brakes for safety
  • High-rise handlebar
  • Offers gear switching options
Cons
  • The crank might be too long

Key Factors To Consider When Purchase A Perfect Urban Fixed Bike

As we experience an ecological crisis. the use of environmentally-friendly vehicles like the fixie bike is getting more and more popular. Additionally, it is a great way to exercise and stay active.

The word ‘fixie’ is the shortened name for fixed gear. It is a type of single-speed bicycle that has a drivetrain with no freewheel mechanism. The lack in freewheel mechanism means that when the rear wheel is moving, the pedals also continue to turn. It is simple to use and more beginner friendly compared to a multi-geared bicycle.

What is A Fixie Bike?

While it’s easy to go to the retail bicycle shops to buy a fixie, you should know first the characteristics of the best fixies bike. This will help you make a better and smarter decision that you will certainly not regret. Below we’ve rounded up all the things you need to look for when searching for the best fixie bike.

01. Size

The size is important for comfort and ease of use. There are three things you have to consider when it comes to choosing the best fixie size for you.

  • Minimum stand over height

This is the measurement of the bicycle from the ground to the top tube. Make sure that there is enough gap between the bike’s top tube and your groin. I recommend at least one to two inches gap. The gap allows you to straddle your bike with your feet flat on the ground comfortably.

  • Saddle height

This is the distance between the the bottom bracket and the saddle. The bottom bracket is where you’ll find the pedal. Make sure that the saddle can be adjusted according to your comfort and height.

Too short saddle height can make pedaling extra challenging for you. On the other hand. a saddle height that is too long can cause discomfort and cause knee pain. The right saddle height should allow you to pedal the bicycle easily and comfortably.

  • Reach

Reach refers to the distance between the saddle and handlebars. Too short or too long reach will surely give you discomfort and difficulty in controlling the bike. Hence, always keep in mind the reach size of the bicycle before spending any bucks.

02. Weight

The weight of the bicycle is important for speed. A fixie with lightweight frame and components is faster and easier to control than a relatively heavy bicycle.

Fixies are generally lightweight but you may still want to check the weight to be sure. The best weight for a fixie is between 20 to 25 lbs..

03. Frame

A bicycle frame holds all the entire bike up and holds all important components of the bike. When it comes to choosing the frame, always consider the following:

  • Material

The best materials for a fixie frame are aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber. You may also opt for fixies with frame made of Chromoly which is a chrome alloy steel that offers more strength compared to carbon steel. It is lightweight and durable as well.

  • Weight

Fixies have varying frame weight depending on the brand and materials used. The weight of the fixie frame is important because it can influence the overall weight of the fixie.

  • Size

Just like any bicycle components, the size matters when it come to the frame. Make sure that it offers enough space for you to control the bike comfortably and efficiently.

04. Chain width

If the chain width is not appropriate to the cogset, it is very likely that you will experience trouble while riding your bike. The chains shouldn’t be too wide or else it can rub on the next larger sprocket.

On the other hand too narrow chains can easily be detached and fall between two sprockets. Hence, it is always choose a chain with a width that is fit to the cogset.

05. Drivetrain

The drivetrain is consisted of the key components that are used to move the bike. If a part of the drivetrain fails then the bike is very likely to malfunction.

The drivetrain components are:

  • Pedals
  • Cranks
  • Chainrings
  • Chain cogs
  • Derailleur

Make sure that all these components are working harmoniously to avoid any trouble on the road.

06. Wheels

The wheels allow the bike to move on the road. It is the key component for the bike’s mobility so you have to choose the right wheel for you.

Choose wheels based on the terrain you want to ride. You should also consider your comfort while riding the bike. The most common wheel size for fixies is 700c wheels. Its width varies from 18 to 47mm.

If it’s your first time purchasing a fixie bike, I recommend going for wider wheels because they offer more traction and comfort. They can also absorb shocks more effectively than thin wheels.

However, if you are looking for wheels that can offer strength, lighter weight, faster speed and easier control, then thin wheels are more suitable for you.

07. Saddle

Choosing the right saddle makes a great difference when it comes to comfort for long-haul bike rides. The fixie saddle all comes down to preference. Always go for a saddle that supports your body shape and weight.

Additionally, check if the height is adjustable so you can customize the height according to your comfort. It is also helpful if you can test drive the bicycle to know if the saddle suits you.

08. Brakes

The brakes are crucial for safety. You want a fixie that can react quickly whenever you need to stop your bike. It is best to opt for a fixie that offers both front and rear brakes for a more effective stop.

09. Handlebars

Handlebars are important for controlling the steering of the fixie. Always opt for fixie handlebars that have a good reach and can be adjusted so you can control your bike efficiently.

Handlebars that have integrated bar ends are also a great choice. Integrated bar ends give you a second-hand position on your flat bars. This will reduce fatigue on your hands during long rides.

10. Grips

The grips are the rubber in the handlebars. They allow you to have a firm hold on the handlebars for maximum control.

The best grips depend on the size of the hand of the user. Bikers with large hands and long fingers need grips that are thicker and bigger in size.

On the other hand, bikers with small hands and short fingers should opt for grips that are thinner and smaller.

11. Geometry

The bike geometry affects the overall handling and stability of the bike. It is important to make sure that the bottom bracket height, wheel base, and the distance and alignment between the front center and the chainstays are appropriate.

Additionally, they should be fit to your comfort and preference.

12. Warranty

Securing a warranty can give you peace of mind. A warranty ensures the fixie quality. It may also save you from spending money on factory-related defects.

FAQs Regarding Urban Fixie Bikes

FAQ's About The Best Fixie Bikes

Q. What is a fixie bike used for?

Fixie bikes are a great option for several reasons. They are good bikes for use in urban settings. Fixie bikes are also known for being excellent for winter use.

The simplicity of a fixie bikes makes it a perfect choice for the road conditions that are present during the winter months. The road salt that is used during the winter is not good for the parts of more complicated road bikes.

The simplicity of the fixie bike makes it more resilient than other options.

Great for Winter Cycling

A fixie bike is also a great winter cycling option because you have to consistently pedal. The fact that you keep working with a fixie bike means that you get the most out of the limited time available to cycle during the winter.

Good for Urban Settings

Fixie bikes can also be good for urban settings where the road terrain is relatively flat. As long as you are not dealing with steep, long hills, a fixie bike is a great choice in an urban cycling environment.

The simplicity of the fixie bike also means there are fewer things to distract you when riding in high-traffic areas.

Q. Are fixies legal in UAS?

Are fixies legal in UAS?

The question of fixie bike legality is one that often comes up. There is plenty of confusion about whether they are legal to ride in the United States. When dealing with laws in the United States, you have to remember that they can differ from one state to the next.

With that said, fixie bikes are generally legal in the U.S. as long as they are fitted with brakes that allow for you to skid when on dry pavement. The fixed wheel on a fixie is usually enough in the majority of situations for you to do this.

At Least One Caliper Brake is Required

Some states in the U.S. do require cyclists to have at least one caliper brake on their bike. The majority of the time, the laws are not written specifically for fixie bikes. They are usually pieces of general legislation that cyclists must interpret when dealing with a fixie.

It is a good idea to check out the specific laws about bike brakes in the specific jurisdiction that you live in.

Legal in the District of Columbia

It is worth noting that fixie bikes without a caliper brake are specifically listed as being legal in the District of Columbia. States that allow the use of the best commuter bike with one brake include

  • Nevada, 
  • Florida,
  • New York,
  • Indiana, and
  • Texas.

Q. Is it hard to ride a fixie bike?

Is it Hard to Ride a Fixie Bike?

Riding a fixie bike means that you are the one who is responsible for accelerating and decelerating a well as stopping. The bike has no gears and so it is reliant on your power to get it moving.

Many people might use this fact to say that fixie bikes are hard to ride. In a lot of ways, they are correct.

At the same time, this is one of the many reasons why I love riding my fixie.

Great for pushing physical fitness

A fixed gear bike is a great option if you are wanting to push your physical fitness to the next level. You don’t have the benefit of changing gears to help in the ascent of a long, steep hill. It is your willpower that pushes the bike forward.

This might mean that it is more work to ride a fixie than what you will experience with many road bike options, but this is why many cyclists love them.

Take a time to build up stamina

If you are going to ride a fixie, you will need to take some time to slowly build up your stamina. I would not advise immediately trying to take on challenging hills or long-distance rides.

If you build yourself up slowly, all of these things can be accomplished on a fixie and you get a great workout from the experience.

Q. Can you ride a fixie uphill?

Can You Ride a Fixie Uphill?

You absolutely can ride a fixie uphill. With this said, you will need to be sufficiently conditioned to do so. It takes a certain amount of mental fortitude along with stamina and built-up strength to ride a fixie up a challenging ascent.

The main thing to remember about riding a fixie uphill is that it is not an ability that you will gain overnight. You will have to devote yourself to building up the required strength and stamina.

For me, the work in building uphill climbing ability is one of the most rewarding parts of the journey when it comes to riding my fixie.

Q. Do you need brakes on a fixie?

Do you need brakes on a fixie?

Fixie bikes generally do not come equipped with brakes. These bikes are specifically designed so that you have to resist the movement of the pedals to slow them down. This isoften a sufficient enough method to slow down and stop a fixie bike in the majority of cases.

At the same time, you need to be aware of the fact that most U.S. jurisdictions do require you to have a brake on any bike that you plan to ride on public roadways.

A fixie bike might not need brakes in the purest sense, but it is often required from a legal standpoint.

Q. How to stop a fixed gear bike without brakes?

How to stop a fixed gear bike without brakes?

Stopping a fixie without brakes is a simple matter of bringing down your speed. You still need to keep pedaling while you are doing this. Eventually, you will bring your fixie to a natural stop.

With this said, it is important to note that you should have a minimum of a hand brake on your fixie’s front wheel if you are going to ride it on public roadways.

This is often a matter of law and it is also a matter of protecting yourself and others who are using the road.

Q. Are Fixies Good for Long Distance?

Fixies are great for long-distance riding as long as you are up for the challenge. You need to have a sufficient level of physical fitness and riding stamina to pull this off but it is certainly doable.

I find that there is a great sense of satisfaction that comes from completing a long and challenging ride on my fixie bike. For those cyclists that love what a fixie bike is all about, achieving success in a long ride is one of the great joys of life.

The main thing to remember is to not overdo it at first. Take the time to build your stamina up by slowly increasing the distance that you ride each time out.

Q. How fast does a fixie bike go?

How fast does a fixie bike go?

The top speed that you can achieve on a fixie bike will depend on you as a cyclist and it will also depend on the design of your specific bike. The velocity that can be achieved is affected by factors such as chainring size and wheel diameter.

Generally speaking, a fixie bike can achieve speeds that range anywhere between 30 and 45 miles per hour. These higher speeds are often achieved by riding in the draft of a cyclist that is in front of you.

The upper limit of 45 miles per hour is achievable for many fixie riders when they are riding downhill.

Q. Where to buy fixed-gear bicycles?

Where to buy a fixie bike?

Now that we have covered the question of what is a fixie bike, you are probably wanting to know more about where you can buy one. The good news is that fixie bikes are easy to find.

Most of the top websites that sell bikes and cycling equipment will offer some great fixie bike options. A quick Google search will reveal many great fixie bike options. It will also produce results for merchants that are selling them.

What I recommend is that you do your research and purchase a fixie from a respected manufacturer.

Some of the top fixie bikes that rank highly with today’s cyclists include

Conclusion

Just because these are the best fixed gear bikes does not mean that they are not worth it. In fact, we would ditch the word cheap and say that these are some amazing affordable bikes that sometimes even outperform expensive models.

However, now that you know a lot more about fixies and where to get them from, it should be easy to pick one. So, let the journey of cruising through open roads begin!

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