Best Single Speed Bikes in 2018 & Beyond -
Ultimate Guide & Reviews
In the past few years, the best single speed bikes have began to enjoy a comeback in popularity. This has been attributed to their ease of use and ease of maintenance. While they are not ideal for uphill cycling, they are great for urban exploration.This is a complete review about the various types bike. So this is the right place to choose your desire product.
Image | Name | Frame Material | Chain | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Pure Fix Original | Steel | KMC Z-410 | |
 | Critical Cycles Fixed Gear | Steel | KMC | |
 | Takara Kabuto | Steel | Lime Green | |
 | Vilano Edge Fixed Gear | Steel | 46T Ring | |
 | Giordano Rapido | Alu-Steel | Steel Ring | |
 | Retrospec Mantra | Steel | KMC | |
 | Vilano Rampage | Steel | 46T Ring | |
 | Critical Cycles Classic | Steel | KMC | |
 | Steel Stealth Fixed | steel | KMC | |
 | Sole Bicycles Fixed | Steel | Ring |
Introduction to Best Single Speed Bikes
Do you know what a fixie is? Are you looking for a bike that is easy to use and maintain? Are you in need of a bike that gives control back to you? As said earlier, the best fixie bikes as many refer to it has made a comeback thanks to their simplicity. They lack a derailleur, have no gears, have no freewheel mechanism and some don’t have brakes allowing the rider to use their leg power in order to brake.
They are closely related to track bikes. Thanks to their simplicity, they are aesthetically pleasing as they have minimal appearance plus they feature alternative paintwork and styling. This is what helps the fixie stand out from the crowd. Shopping for one means considering several factors. This allows you not only to have that perfect fixie but ensures you are able to purchase it at an affordable price.
Recommended Best Single Speed and Fixie Bikes Reviews
1.Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike
The fixie has been engineered with speed, style and affordability in mind. It comes with an elegant urban geometry frame that is made from durable high tensile steel. Combined with the flip flop rear hub, you are assured of making the best choice when it comes to riding. It gives one flexibility to ride fixed or freewheel. When you ride fixed wheel, you get to enjoy an unmatched feeling of connectedness with this best fixed gear bikes.It also helps you perfect your pedal stroke.
It is engineered with a Neco thread less headset that holds Pure Fix riser bars with Oury grips. The V drome saddle is designed to provide a comfort and raciness. It comes with Promax front brakes which are easily removable especially if you are a purist rider. It has custom Pure Fix lasered KT quandos hubs too.
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2.Critical Cycles Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Urban Road Bike
It is engineered with premium hand built steel fixed gear single speed track frame with bar spin clearance. Thanks to the steel frame, you are assured of durability and long term use of the bike. It has Super Deep-V double wall rims with flip-flop hub and free wheel plus fixed gear cogs on wheel set. These features add more control and efficiency to the bike improving the riders experience greatly. It designed for a rider who wants the sleek profile of a fixed gear plus the refreshing ease of a cruiser.
This bikes come with Harper’s Coaster brakes which means no more cables, no more wires and no more clunky. The coaster brake is one of the most straightforward features that add control. All you need to do in order to activate it is to simply pedal backwards and you will come to a stop. Thanks to this simplicity, the ultra sleek silhouette does not require any significant upkeep since there are only a few elements. The VP freestyle pedals and KMC chain ensure reliability at all times.
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3. Takara Kabuto Single Speed Road Bike
The fixie features a handcrafted steel frame with horizontal dropouts which are designed to handle any kind of abuse especially when cycling through the city. It comes with a flip-flop hub that allows you to run the bike on a fixed gear or standard free wheel. It has a 32 hole alloy wheel support for Kenda tires which are excellent and offer long term use. It is perfect for different road conditions.
The front and rear brakes are built with alloy providing the required stopping power when needed. The bike has a stand over clearance of 31 inches so it provides room for men and women of varying heights. It has a bright and sturdy style which makes it safer for use even at night.
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4. Vilano Edge Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike
As one of the best single fixed bikes, the Vilano Edge Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike is designed to be great looking. It is perfect for riding in town, around campus, to work and around the park. It comes in several colors providing a wide array of choices for the buyer. It has 45mm double walled deep V anodized wheels with matching anodized hubs which provide support to the rider as well as offer a smooth ride.
The forged alloy crankset has a replaceable chain ring allowing you to upgrade to a better option in the future. The fixie has both bullhorn bars and riser bars allowing the rider to have full control as well as ensure efficiency when riding. It is engineered with urban geometry by incorporating a 700c tig welded frame and straight fork. It weighs 41 pounds.
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5. Giordano Rapido Single Speed Bike
The company behind Giordano Rapido has taken its inspiration from Italy’s rich cycling history. It is focused on providing bike lovers with high quality bikes and accessories that provide unrivaled value statement. The bikes and its accessories fuse tradition with latest technological advancements. If you are looking for a highly design single speed bikes for riding proudly, giordano rapido should be your right choice.
At the heart of the Giordano Rapido single speed bike, you will find a strong hand crafted aluminum frame with horizontal dropouts. This is designed to withstand any force thrown at the bike as one rides through the town or around the campus. It can run as a fixed gear or with a standard free wheel. This is attributed to the flip-flop hub fitted at the rear of the bike. It comes with 32 hole alloy wheels which roll on kenda tires. These are capable of withstanding less than perfect roads. The Giordano Rapido single speed bike is available in men’s medium and large sizes.
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6. Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle with Sealed Bearing Hubs
If you are looking for the best fixie bikes that are improved to be perfect for commuting in your city, then the best choice is the Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle with Sealed Bearing Hubs. It has a hand built and tig-welded steel frame which assures you of longevity. It comes with weatherproof sealed bearing hubs that assure you of less maintenance as well as sealing them from dirt and moisture.
Hand built welded steel frame: The fixie is designed to support the weight of the rider at all times. Every person weighs differently. To ensure that the cyclist is able to enjoy a simple, enjoyable and efficient ride, the fixie has a hand built welded steel frame. Steel is a tough material which assures the cyclist of longevity. It is corrosion free which makes it suitable as an all-weather bike.
Flip flop hub: There are fixies that lack brakes. This is not a design flaw but a feature designed to give control back to the cyclist. The is fitted at the rear wheel allowing the cyclist to slow down the bike. Thanks to this feature, you can finally embrace your inner urban cyclist and free wheel all you want.
Handpicked components: The Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle with Sealed Bearing Hubs is engineered by the best. All components are handpicked. From the saddle to the tires, the manufacturer has hand selected each from top notch brands. It has Kenda tired that offer minimal resistance and double wall super deep-V star rims that support the rider.
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7. Vilano Rampage Fixed Gear Fixie Single Speed Road Bike
The world of cycling is quite fascinating especially due to its many health oriented applications. If you are looking for a simple transport system to the city with that converts into cardio workout, the Vilano Rampage Fixed Gear Fixie Single Speed Road Bike is highly recommended from the best fixie bikes list.
Features:
Hi tensile steel frame: In order to connect all other vital components of the fixie, it is built with a hi-tensile steel frame. Thanks to the frame, the saddle, tires, pedals, hubs and handles are fitted in the right locations. Steel is a tough material that can support a lot of weight with ease. Furthermore, it does not corrode like iron. Although not lightweight like carbon fiber or titanium, it is stylish and easy to maintain
Alloy caliper front and rear brakes: Majority of fixies have rear flip-flop hubs that allow the cyclist to free wheel. It also places control in the legs of the cyclist as they use the feature to slow down the bike. The Vilano Rampage Fixed Gear Fixie Single Speed Road Bike is fitted with front and rear caliper bikes. This is a great feature as it helps to slow or stop the bike when one needs to.
28c tires: The product 28c tires help to increase road contact allowing great control to the cyclist. They are available in several colors allowing one to have a stylish bike that is different from others. This helps one’s bike to stand out from the pack and even turn some heads around
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8. Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike with Pista Drop Bars
The Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike with Pista Drop Bars is built by a California based company. It is designed and distributed by those with a passion for cycling. This provides power to the cyclist at all time. There are several color combinations to select from giving the cyclist a stylish bike that turns heads always.
Features:
Super deep V double wall rims:
The bikes are one of the most popular option especially for people living in towns and cities. Not only are they relatively affordable, but they come with useful features like super deep V double wall rims that provide better support to the wheels.
Downward sloped handlebars:
If you have had a chance of riding a track bike before, then you are familiar with the downward-sloped handlebars. While they have a slightly different geometry, they are designed to improve aerodynamics allowing the cyclist to move faster. The downward-sloped handlebars make one to hunch over which encourages the cyclist to ride hard and fast. They also provide more clearance
Narrow tires:
They help to reduce rolling resistance and riding helping one to accelerate faster. Thanks to its design, your movements and the bike movements become in-sync. The bike does not move unless one is pedaling it. This is a great form of cardio workout.
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9. Steel Stealth Fixed Gear Bike with Pursuit Bullhorn Handlebar
Steel Stealth Fixed Gear Bike with Pursuit Bullhorn Handlebar
Features:
Track bike frame:
It comes with a track bike frame designed to improve acceleration as well as provide an aggressive ride. The engineers have eliminated all cables and wires from the bike making it sleek and minimal. The only mechanism provided is a simple front brake that enables one to slow down the bike.
Kenda tires and tubes:
It is fitted with Kenda tires which are a renowned brand for improved road contact. This improves one cycling experience as well as allowing for better acceleration. The tires last long and require less maintenance compared to other brands.
Front brakes:
The constant motion of pedaling from the rider’s movement forms a tangible bond between the cyclist and the bike. In order to slow down and stop, the bike is fitted with front brakes. This improves the level of control especially when cycling over uneven roads and sharp corners.
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10. Sole Bicycles Fixed Gear and Single Speed, Urban Road Bike with Flip Flop Hub
Sole Bicycle Co. is a company that was founded in 2009 by friends who wanted to change the world of the best fixed gear bikes. They had a shared determination and vision that led to the introduction of high performance, stylish and affordable bicycles.
Features:
All shapes and sizes:
The company is catering for a wide array of cyclists and that why it offers bikes in all shapes and sizes.
There are 4 frame sizes available which are designed for people with a height ranging between 5 feet 2 inches and 6 feet or higher. This is factored in the connecting tubes which range between short and long allowing cyclists to scale up or down easily.
Flip flop hub:
The single speed bikes come with two hubs on the rear wheel that allows the cyclist to switch between orientations. When purchased, the bike arrives configured to the single speed hub that allows the cyclist to coast and ride with ease. One can also make it into a fixed gear bike that enables you to ride in fixed drive motion without any coasting.
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How to Choose Best Single Speed and Fixed Gear Bikes
Type of Material:
Today, bikes are made with a wide array of materials. This helps to ensure the bike is durable, lightweight and stylish. Here are a few materials used in the construction of the bike.
Steel:
Considered one of the toughest materials, it has been a favorite for building bikes for a long period of time. Steel frames are not only renowned for their strength but for their comfort and durability. A steel frame is very easy to fix when it has dents or bends. Furthermore, it is quite affordable especially when compared with expensive options like carbon fiber and titanium. Basically it's the basic criteria for choosing the best bikes.
Carbon Fiber:
It is considered one of the most lightweight materials for best fixed gear bikes. It is a non metal and thanks to its nature, it is easily manipulated into aerodynamic shapes and fine tuned in order to increase stiffness and strength. Thanks to improved technology, carbon fiber bikes have become more affordable.
Titanium:
Titanium is an extremely lightweight material and is known to build high quality bike frames. The material has an inherent flex plus it generates a smooth and comfortable ride which is devoid of heavy surface vibration. Furthermore, it looks great, does not corrode and lasts a lifetime.
Style:
Style is a great factor to consider as you will be spending time riding the bike through urban areas. While it may not be a head turner like an exotic sports car, among fellow bikers, it will sure be impressive. When you make style a factor to consider, you are assured of a bike with fewer mechanical parts. While this makes it tougher to ride, it is a more reliable bike that provides you with cleaner lines. Plus it has less cables and clutter. This types of bike is easily customizable to fit your style. Majority of fixies have a detailed retro style – from the bike frame to the wheels and handle bars. You are sure to turn some heads as you ride along the park or the beach.
Size frame:
Every bike is designed with a standard size bike frame especially for adults. This does not mean that it is suitable for everyone. It is important to consider the bike size frame as this will ensure better control and a comfortable ride at all times. If you select a bike frame that is too big, you will have difficulty placing your feet on the ground as well as controlling the bike. Furthermore, it will be even be more difficult to reach the brakes if there are any. If you select a smaller frame, you will run the risk of injuring your knees on the handles as you ride. In order to determine your right size frame, visit a local bike shop in order to get the feel of your specific measurements. Furthermore, you will receive the much needed advice from a professional.
Components:
The bike parts are very important as they help in ensuring the bike gets to function as required. Many people opt to buy a standard fixie but over time, they get to upgrade different components with the purpose of improving speed and efficiency. When shopping for a fixie, you need to look for a bike that has upgradable or replaceable parts. The parts should also be easy to purchase at the local bike store. Some of the most important components you need include the wheelset, the hubs, the saddle, tires and the pedals. While the saddles, tires and pedals may be a matter of preference, it is important to find replaceable parts quickly as the stock model may not offer comfort or durability.
Other Consideration:
As a shopper, there are other considerations that you need to factor in when shopping for the best single speed bike. They include tires, cranksets, cassette, weight and brand. When you purchase any fixie, it comes with stock wheels. This may become worn out after a few rides. It is important to consider a bike that has strong and durable wheels. When you think of weight, you need to consider your living conditions. If you reside in an apartment, you know you have to haul your bike around. Even when it comes to storage, the bikes weight plays a crucial factor.
Final Verdict
If you are planning to purchase the best single speed bikes, you have to shop carefully. You don’t want to end up with a bike that is made of poor quality materials finally becoming a burden rather than a useful tool. This is why it is wise to sit down and note factors that will ensure better shopping. To help you on this quest, here are a few factors you need to consider before purchasing a single speed bike. Type of material, your skill level, style, bike accessories, weight, frame size, geometry, brand and price. These are just but a few of the highlighted things one needs to consider. Still not sure what fixie to purchase? I highly recommend the above reviewed for a wise and approved purchase.
As said earlier, the best bikes are designed for everyday commuters who are looking for a simple commuting system that enables them to enjoy the sunshine, local attractions and breeze. They are designed to be simple with less mechanisms allowing for less maintenance. They are perfect for workout enthusiast and that’s why they are designed for fast acceleration. Planning to shop any time soon? I highly recommend the above reviewed products.