FIXED GEAR BICYCLE

In Australia, "fixed-wheel" is the normal term for the subject of this article — meaning the opposite of freewheel, and "fixed-gear" usually refers to a single-speed bicycle.

A fixed-gear bicycle (or fixed-wheel bicycle, sometimes known in the USA as a fixie) is a bicycle that has no freewheel, meaning it cannot coast — the pedals are always in motion when the bicycle is moving.

The sprocket is screwed or bolted directly onto a fixed hub. When the rear wheel turns, the pedals turn in the same direction.[1] This allows a cyclist to stop without using a brake, by resisting the rotation of the cranks, and also to ride in reverse.

Track cycling in a velodrome has always used fixed-gear track bikes, but fixed-gear bicycles are A fixed-gear bicycle
An 18-tooth cog that attaches to the rear hub of fixed-gear bike
Track cogs are typically attached and removed from the hub by screwing them with a chain whip. This tool has a lockring spanner for securing a reverse threaded lockring against the cog.

A fixed-gear bicycle
An 18-tooth cog that attaches to the rear hub of fixed-gear bike
Track cogs are typically attached and removed from the hub by screwing them with a chain whip. This tool has a lockring spanner for securing a reverse threaded lockring against the cog.

A fixed-gear bicycle
An 18-tooth cog that attaches to the rear hub of fixed-gear bike
Track cogs are typically attached and removed from the hub by screwing them with a chain whip. This tool has a lockring spanner for securing a reverse threaded lockring against the cog.

Brakeless
Cyclist riding a fixed gear bike without brakes

Some fixed-gear riders think brakes are not strictly necessary, and brakeless fixed riding has a cult status in some areas.[21] For the image-concerned cyclist, brakes and their cables add extra aesthetic "bulk" to the simple, minimalist look of a fixed gear.

Other riders dismiss riding on roads without brakes as an unnecessary affectation, based on image rather than practicality.[22] Furthermore, riding brakeless can be very dangerous, and may jeopardize the chances of a successful insurance claim in the event of an accident — and is against the law in many jurisdictions.[23]