What is a Fixie?

The fixie is here, and it's taking over the streets of your home town. A lot of people have been asking us what’s up with this new cycling fad called fixies. Well do not fear, as Primera can explain exactly what a fixie is, why they’re so great, and how you can get your hands on one.

This is how Wikipedia describe a fixie:

A fixed-gear bicycle (or fixed-wheel bicycle, commonly known 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 directly onto a fixed hub. When the rear wheel turns, the pedals turn in the same direction. 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 now again used on the road, a trend generally seen as being led by bicycle messengers.

Riding a fixed gear bike is an acquired taste and even the basics take a while to master. But there is a certain purity by being just rider, bike and city, and as you are always pedalling you are always in contact with the road. Fixie riding is addictive, and the craze is already well under way in London, New York and San Francisco.

You can find out what the fuss is all about at Primera. We stock a wide range of fixed gear bikes including Specialized, Marin, Fixie and Blue.