There is something incredibly special about the way a cyclist feels when riding a fixed-gear bike, no matter how odd it may seem to build a bike with no brakes. When the pedals turn, the wheels turn in sync. And when the pedals slow, the wheels slow in sync. Brakes are sometimes present for “just in case” emergency situations, but your legs are responsible for stopping the bike, just as they are responsible for accelerating it. And learning to ride is like starting all over again. But once you hit your stride, riding a fixie feels so darn good — it’s like you, the bike, and the road are all connected.
Apart from feeling unique and looking cooler than anyone else on the road, a single-speed fixie also requires virtually zero maintenance, which is ideal for novice cyclists and minimalists. They can even be used for track racing, if you're daring enough.
If you're looking for a fixie bike to ride around town, the most important things to consider are the riding position, the frame's material, if you want brakes or not, and price. Because more expensive fixie bikes are typically made for racing, you often won't find brakes on board and the riding position will be designed with aerodynamics in mind. More affordable fixie bikes (sub-$500) will have a more upright riding position and come with two brakes. They're also typically made with steel frames, which are more durable than lightweight carbon for riding around town.
So if you're in the market for a new bike, we recommend taking one of these fixies for a spin — you might just come over to the dark side with us.
Note: The cycling industry has experienced an incredible sales growth since the start of 2020, and as such, demand is greater than supply. Inventory sells quickly, especially online. We will check frequently to ensure that the recommended bikes are in stock, but please understand that our suggestions may be unavailable at the time you are reading. If so, check back frequently, and we will do the same.
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Most Stealthy Fixie
State Bicycle Co. Black Label v2 Aluminum Fixed Gear Bike
Compare this bike to a fully loaded Toyota 4 Runner: It's the classic, popular, reliable bicycle that you see all over town, and it's chock-full of upgrades when compared with State's popular and affordable Core Line. We can't help but think of the Batmobile when we see this stealthy Black Label fixie!
To build the lightest bike possible without sacrificing durability, State combined a double-butted aluminum frame with an Essor full carbon-fiber fork and steering tube. It also features an oversized seat post and stem, and some pista drop bars (think track racing) that are guaranteed head-turners.
Perfect for commuters, this bike is safer than ever. Front and rear brakes allow you to stop on a dime when the stoplight turns yellow, and the Wanda commuter tires are wider than most for better stability and confidence when rocks, potholes, and even curbs just can't be avoided.
We especially love how the brown leather seat and matching handlebar grips give the Harper a timeless, classy style.
When you have to lug your bike up seven flights of stairs daily to a studio apartment downtown, you'll appreciate how lightweight this alloy bike is (just 18 pounds for the small size). This all-black bike goes with every outfit, and looks just as good zipping through the streets as it does displayed as wall art in your digs.
Indecisive? Try riding in fixed-gear mode, but if you decide against it, simply flip the rear wheel and you've got a single-speed cruiser that can stop quickly, thanks to front and rear brakes.
Perhaps our favorite part of this model is the style — there are about 10 unique color schemes for both men and women, all equipped with these killer deep-dish 50-millimeter wheels. Ride it fixed, or switch the flip-flop rear wheel hub and coast with single-speed with the included front and rear brake.
With an average of 4.3 stars from over 75 reviews, this is a wise choice for Amazon shoppers. Order it online and have it delivered right to your doorstep. Because there are so few parts, a novice can put this bike together in a flash.
As a cyclist in Denver and Philadelphia, our editors have always coveted other people's Bianchi bikes. They're an Italian brand with heritage dating back to the company's beginning in 1885.
Bianchi's single-speed Pista may not look like anything special, but the steel frame is wonderfully solid, the drop bars are made for speed (and style), and it's backed by the company's 130-year reputation for building high-performance race bikes.
If you're considering track racing but also want a bike that can handle weathered streets, you'll love this race-inspired bike. The Thunderdome is one of the smoothest, fastest, and sexiest fixies out there, whether you're racing laps on the track or racing traffic to the time clock.
A strong, yet lightweight aluminum frame meets a carbon Whisky No. 7 tapered front fork with through axle to make this bike stiff, yet compliant, and nearly eliminates road chatter. Meanwhile, a polished silver seat post, stem, handlebars, and wheels make this bike shine like a diamond in the rough. Heads will turn.
Sure, style isn’t everything. But we firmly believe that if you look better, you feel better, and in turn, you’ll ride better. So hop up on the saddle of Solé’s el Tigre and hit the road. El Tigre has a bit more of an upright geometry, plus flat handlebars (versus drop bars), which both help to improve comfort by minimizing strain on your back.
Indecisive much? Try riding in fixed-gear mode, but if you decide against it, simply flip the rear wheel and you've got a single-speed cruiser that can stop quickly, thanks to front and rear brakes. The color schemes all have a nice pop to them, too.
Andrew BettlachAndrew has been contributing to the outdoors and fitness content on BestProducts.com since 2017; he's a nature lover, peak-bagger, skier, and general good-time haver who lives in Colorado, knows where all the fresh snow is, and what gear you should be wearing for staying warm or looking fresh.
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