Introduction

Fixed gear bicycles, often referred to as “fixies,” are becoming increasingly popular among bike enthusiasts and urban cyclists. With no freewheel mechanism, the gear is directly connected to the pedals, meaning that if your bike is moving, your legs are too. This gives the rider an unparalleled connection with their bike and can make for a truly exhilarating cycling experience. In this article, we’ll discuss four ways to ride a fixed gear bike so you can get the most out of this unique cycling experience.

1.Skid stop

One of the most appealing aspects of a fixed gear bicycle is the ability to execute a skid stop. This entails locking the rear wheel by resisting the pedal motion while leaning forward over the handlebars to shift your body weight off the rear wheel. It might sound daunting at first, but with some practice, you’ll quickly become proficient in skid stopping.

Tips for mastering the skid stop:

– Start by practicing on a flat surface with minimal traffic

– Apply pressure to the pedals by pushing forward with your front foot and pulling back with your back foot simultaneously

– Lean forward gradually to shift more of your weight onto the front wheel

– With time and practice, you’ll be able to control the duration and movement of your skid

2.Track standing

Track standing refers to balancing on your bike while it remains stationary — an essential skill for fixed gear riders. The technique involves keeping both feet on the pedals while maintaining balance by slightly turning the front wheel and applying counter-pressure on the pedals.

Tips for mastering track standing:

– Begin practicing near a wall or railing for added support

– Keep your dominant foot forward on the pedal at approximately two o’clock position

– Maintain a slight bend in your arms and legs for increased flexibility

– Practice moving forward and backward in small increments to improve balance

3.Riding at a high cadence

Fixed gear bikes encourage a higher cadence, which can result in a more efficient and fluid cycling style. Riding at a high cadence challenges your leg muscles and cardiovascular system, making it an excellent workout method for both casual and serious cyclists.

Tips for riding at a high cadence:

– Set attainable goals for increasing your RPM (revolutions per minute) gradually over time

– Focus on maintaining a smooth and consistent pedal motion

– Incorporate interval training sessions to help build stamina

– Listen to your body and adjust the pace as needed to avoid injury

4.Riding brakeless

While not compulsory nor recommended for everyone, some fixed gear cyclists choose to ride without brakes — relying solely on their skills to control speed and stop. This is best suited for experienced riders who have mastered skid stopping and track standing.

Tips for riding brakeless:

– Always prioritize safety: wear a helmet, maintain appropriate tire pressure, and ensure the bike is well-maintained

– Practice skid stopping and track standing regularly

– Develop an awareness of traffic conditions and surroundings when riding in urban settings

– Consider keeping a front brake on your bike if you’re new to riding brakeless or if you ride in heavily trafficked areas

Conclusion

Riding a fixed gear bike offers unique challenges that can dramatically improve your cycling experience. By mastering techniques like skid stopping, track standing, riding at a high cadence, and potentially going brakeless, you can unlock the full potential of this distinctive style of cycling. Remember always to prioritize safety while exploring new skills on your fixed gear bike. Happy riding!