Fixie bikes, or fixed gear bikes, are known for their simplicity and agility. Many cyclists enjoy the minimalist design of these bikes, and appreciate being integral to the cycling community. Some argue that brakes detract from the nature of a fixie bike, while others consider them necessary for safe riding.
Do Fixie Bikes Have Brakes?
Even though fixed-gear bicycles lack the freewheel mechanism, they still need brakes to stop. The need for brakes is evident when riding on hills or in environments with unpredictable traffic.
In addition, having brakes can mitigate the strain put on the knees while riding. Single speed bikes and geared bikes have brakes for this reason, and fixed gear bikes are no exception.
While some fixed gear bikes come without brakes due to personal preference, it is important to have at least one brake installed for safety reasons.
The absence of brakes may lead to accidents or skidding, especially on wet surfaces. As such, cyclists need to install brakes on their fixies to ensure their safety and that of other road users.
How Do Fixed Gear Bikes Stop
Fixie bikes can stop in a few ways, including using brakes on the handlebars or using one’s body to resist the pedals’ motion.
On fixie bikes, if the rider stops pedaling, the cranks will continue to spin. The back wheel can also act as a brake, or rather a ‘system of braking’ – putting pressure on the pedals to reverse the direction of motion will slow down the bike.
It’s important to note that while most fixed-gear bicycles only have a front brake, some have no brakes at all. This is because the original track bikes didn’t come with brakes as they weren’t necessary due to the uniform direction of travel, lack of corners, and inability to stop any faster.
Brakes on Single Speed Bikes vs Fixies
When it comes to brakes, there are some differences between single speed bikes and fixies.
Single speed bikes typically have brakes on both the front and rear wheels. In contrast, most fixies only come with a front brake, and some don’t have any brakes at all.
However, the reason for this is that fixie riders can use the resistance of the pedals to slow down the bike or skid the rear wheel to brake. Some cyclists prefer this minimalist approach, as it reduces the number of components on the bike and can make it easier to maintain.
However, it’s important to note that riding without brakes can be dangerous, especially in busy urban environments.
Brakes on Fixies – Caliper or V-brakes?
When it comes to choosing brakes for your fixie bike, you have the option of caliper or V-brakes.
Caliper brakes are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice among fixie riders. However, V-brakes offer better stopping power and are more effective in wet conditions.
Some fixie bikes may come without brakes altogether, which can be a risky choice for inexperienced riders.
Regardless of which brake system you choose, it’s important to ensure that your fixie bike is equipped with a reliable stopping mechanism to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Why Some Fixie Bikes Come Without Brakes
Some fixed-gear bikes come without brakes. This is because the direct connection between the pedals and the wheels makes it possible to slow down and stop the bike simply by resisting the motion of the pedals.
Some avid fixie riders prefer the thrill and challenge of riding without brakes, and they enjoy the increased control and responsiveness that comes with relying solely on their pedal resistance.
On the other hand, some cyclists may be hesitant to ride a fixie without brakes, particularly if they are not used to the unique handling characteristics of this type of bike.
Pros & Cons of Brakes on Fixies
The addition of brakes to a fixie bike is a subject of debate among cyclists.
One advantage of having brakes on fixies is greater control and safety when riding downhill or on inclines. Brakes also give the rider more options for stopping, without having to rely solely on leg power.
However, some purists argue that riding a fixie without brakes improves skill and balance, and avoids the need for additional components that can add weight and complexity to the bike.
It’s important to remember that if a fixie is used on public roads, at least a front brake is required by law for safety reasons.
Installing Brakes on Fixed Gear Bikes
If you do not use brakes on your fixie, it’s possible to add front and rear disc or rim brakes.
Fitting brakes to a fixie requires some basic mechanical skills and tools, and a quick guide may come in handy for those who want to do it themselves.
For those who are not adept at mechanical work, it’s best to seek assistance from a bike mechanic or a friend who has experience in bike assembly.
Adding brakes to a fixie improves its safety and legality, particularly when ridden on public roads.
However, some fixie purists argue that having brakes is antithetical to the minimalist ethos of fixed-gear cycling.
The Role of Pedal Resistance in Stopping Fixies
The pedals and rear wheel of a fixie are directly linked, which means stopping pedaling will also stop the bike.
As the rider begins to slow down, they can use the resistance of the pedals to come to a complete stop.
Experienced riders become so accustomed to this method that they consider it as an art form. While this might seem daunting to riders accustomed to traditional bikes with hand-operated brakes, the feedback from the pedals provides a heightened sense of control over the bike’s speed.
However, it is worth noting that some riders prefer installing a caliper or V-brake system to add an additional level of safety to their fixie.
References
https://brooklynfixedgear.com/cycling/why-fixie-bikes-dont-have-brakes/
https://www.yellowjersey.co.uk/the-draft/whats-the-difference-between-single-speed-and-fixed-gear-bikes/
https://fixedgear.life/why-do-fixies-have-no-brakes/
https://steedbikes.com/blogs/news/how-to-stop-your-fixie-bike-without-brakes
https://www.dedhambike.com/buyers-guides/buyers-guide-to-fixie-bikes-pg201.htm
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/fixie-bicycles-fixed-gear-brakes-new-rules-cyclists-mot-430641
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-41036581
