Everyone who rides a bicycle for pleasure, fitness, or commuting has inevitably stumbled across the friendly debate of road bike versus fixie. People wonder about the difference in speeds of these two types of bikes because one has gears while the other is devoid of them.
The Debate between Road Bikes and Fixies
In terms of sheer speed, road bikes typically have the upper hand, or perhaps more aptly, the upper pedal over Fixed gear bikes.
Road bikes rule over mixed terrains and long-distances, while fixies are fun, agile, and efficient on mostly flat city commutes.
• Road Bikes: Designed for speed, road bikes are often likened to the sports cars of the cycling world. They can reach high speeds similar to a car, making them the ideal choice for long-distance commutes, races, and triathlons.
• Fixies: Fixed gear bikes offer a pure and simplistic ride. They’re less expensive and easy to maintain. Fixies are generally preferred by urban commuters as they provide a solid workout and are extremely maneuverable.
Factors that Affect Speed
When comparing the speed potential of road bikes and fixies, several factors come into play:
Gear Ratios: A road bike’s multiple gears can be adjusted to optimize speed for different terrains, slopes, and rider fitness levels, giving it an edge in versatile performance.
Weight: Fixies’ minimalist design often results in a lighter bike, which can provide an advantage in certain conditions, like climbing hills or quick stops and starts in city traffic.
Less Physical Exertion: Road bikes require less physical effort as compared to fixies. They allow cyclists to choose a comfortable gear, making long distances less tiring. In essence, they can often outpace fixed-gear bikes because cyclists can reserve strength and stamina.
Hill Climbing: The hill climbing challenge is made easier with the multiple gears of a road bike, providing a definite speed advantage over hilly terrains.
Comparing Speed: Road Bikes vs. Fixies
The speed of a bicycle largely depends on a myriad of factors, including rider skill, terrain, and weight of the bike. However, for the purpose of this discussion, we’ll consider three primary scenarios – level ground, inclines and declines.
Speed on Level Ground
On level ground, a road bike generally tends to have an advantage over a fixie due to its multiple gears. It allows the rider to choose the most efficient gear ratio and maintain a higher speed for a particular level of effort.
Fixies, on the other hand, rely on a single gear ratio. Thus, if the gear is too high, a rider would have to exert more effort and tire faster; if too low, they would spin quickly but not cover a lot of distance.
However, a well-tuned fixie with an optimal gear ratio can still match the speed of a road bike for city commuting.
Speed on Inclines
Upwards inclines are where road bikes shine. The multiple gears in a road bike can be shifted to lower gears to make pedaling easier during climbs.
Fixie and single-speed bikes, on the other hand, only have one gear and cannot be adapted to changing terrains. Riders may struggle to keep up speed on steep inclines unless they’re in top-notch physical condition.
Speed on Declines
On downhill rides, riders on both types of bikes can reach high speeds, but keep in mind that the lack of freewheel on fixies means riders cannot stop pedaling even on a descent, making controlling the speed a bit more challenging.
Still, riders on fixies often report speed matches of 40-45 mph on downhill roads, which aligns with the speed road bike users are often able to achieve.
Therefore, when comparing the speed between road bikes and fixies, the deciding factor is ultimately the type of ride you’re on.
Components that Enhance Speed of a Road Bike
Road bikes are engineered with certain features that make them speed-oriented machines. Some of the key components include:
Gearing system: The multiple gears in road bikes allow riders to maintain an optimal cadence even when the terrain alters. Different gearing systems support the quest for maximum speed.
Aerodynamic structure: Road bikes are built with a streamlined design to minimize air resistance, resulting in higher speeds. The drop-bar handlebars, tight wheelbase, and narrow tires all contribute to this aerodynamic superiority.
Lightweight: Road bikes are typically lighter, thanks in large part to their frame materials. This lightness can mean less effort for the rider to propel the bike forward, ultimately boosting speed.
But There are Other Advantages of Fixies
Here are the reasons that may make you consider fixies over road bikes:
Weight Advantage: Fixies are naturally lighter than road bikes – the lack of deraileurs, shifters, and multiple sprockets trims down the weight, making for a more agile ride.
Cost Effectiveness: Due to there being fewer components, fixies are generally less expensive than a road bike. Additionally, maintenance costs can also be reduced.
The maintenance of a fixie is simpler, and thus cheaper, as there are fewer parts that require regular tuning and potential replacement.
Low Theft Risk: Given their low resale value and the specialized knowledge needed to ride them smoothly, fixies are less likely to be targeted by thieves.
Choosing the Right Bike for You
Here are a few points to keep in mind:
Fixies: Fabulous for beginners and city commuters. They are relatively low maintenance due to their simplicity. However, hills can be difficult to manage due to fixed gear ratios.
Road bikes: A little bit complex in design and hence, involve more components and maintenance. However, they offer more flexibility in speed, acceleration, and ride comfort over diverse terrains.
In conclusion, your preference for a fixie or a road bike should essentially depend on your terrain and riding style.
A fixie can offer a great exercise routine and a smooth ride in cityscapes, while the road bike promises to be a consistent companion across mixed terrains and distance rides.
Ensure that the bike you choose amplifies your cycling experience and aligns with your requirements, routines, and preferences.
References
https://bikerenovate.com/are-track-bikes-faster-than-road-bikes/
https://bikecommuterhero.com/why-are-some-bikes-faster/
https://www.peacebicycles.com/fixie-vs-road-bike/
https://brooklynfixedgear.com/bikes-and-parts/fixies-vs-road-bikes/
