If you’re looking for the best fixed gear bikes, keep reading to find out what we’ve discovered after a lot of careful research and digging around.
Unlike mountain bikes or other types that may have all sorts of different speeds and gears, a fixed gear bike (also known as a fixie) is much simpler. Fixies are popular because they’re simple, easy to build and work on, and you have a lot of control.
On top of all that, they’re very fun to ride, and popular among enthusiasts. When you pedal forward, the bike moves forward a proportional amount.
The same goes for when you pedal backwards. You get maximum efficiency for your efforts with a single speed bicycle, they’re often lighter due to having less mechanical parts, and once again - an absolute blast to ride around!
In a hurry? The test winner after 17 hours of research:
Schwinn Stites Single-Speed Fixie Bike
SCHWINN STITES SINGLE-SPEED FIXIE BIKE
Why is it better?
96/100
our score
15
Researched sources
112
REviews considered
17
hours researching
31
products compared
Last Updated: October 1, 2020
By Max Shumpert: This article has been updated to reflect the most accurate information regarding fixed gear bikes available for those who are interested in single speed bikes. The best 7 available have changed, and information has been added to assist individuals in finding the best single speed bikes currently available on the market. The FAQ has also been updated.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our Top Pick  | Our Top Pick | PURE FIX ORIGINAL | Rating: | |
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| CRITICAL CYCLES HARPER COASTER FIXIE STYLE SINGLE-SPEED | Rating: | ||
| Budget Pick  | Budget Pick | 6KU FIXED GEAR SINGLE SPEED URBAN FIXIE ROAD BIKE | Rating: | |
 | SUBROSA ERRO UTB 700C BIKE | Rating: | ||
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| RETROSPEC BICYCLES MANTRA V2 SINGLE SPEED FIXED GEAR BICYCLE | Rating: | ||
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| STATE BICYCLE CO. BLACK LABEL 6061 V2 ALUMINUM TRACK FIXED GEAR BIKE | Rating: | ||
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| RETROSPEC HARPER SINGLE-SPEED FIXED GEAR URBAN COMMUTER BIKE | Rating: | ||
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| SCHWINN STITES SINGLE-SPEED FIXIE BIKE | Rating: | ||
|
| STATE BICYCLE BERNARD - FIXED GEAR/SINGLE SPEED BIKE | Rating: | ||
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| PURE FIX PREMIUM FIXED GEAR SINGLE SPEED BICYCLE | Rating: |
Best Single Speed bikes
We’ve carefully tested and analyzed a lot of fixed gear bikes currently on the market, and decided on these 12 as our favorites. We’ve made sure to cover various budgets, styles, uses, and component options to provide a better variety.
We definitely have our top two choices that we’ll reveal at the end, but we recommend any of these 12 for those looking to either get started with fixies, or upgrade from one they converted themselves.
1. PURE FIX ORIGINAL
Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike
Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike
The Original from Pure Fix is a perfect example of a well-rounded fixed gear bike that focuses on all the right aspects, while keeping the price in an affordable range.
It offers a truly authentic fixed gear look, but places an emphasis on its components and ride quality.
Add in an array of color options (30 to be exact) and you have a superior ided gear bike that provides excellent efficiency and control, with the ability to suit anyone’s style.
The Original’s frame is crafted from high-ten steel, taking a different approach from many companies who prefer aluminum these days. Don’t worry about weight though; the Original stays within the 22-24 pound range depending on its size.
The frame showcases a classic urban look, with straight dropouts, a straight fork, and a seatpost angle than encourages forward-leaning riding. An alloy riser handlebar helps the rider to relax just a bit, creating a more comfortable environment or the back and shoulders.
Seating is provided by a racing-style saddle with a slight dip in the front, and some added padding as well. This helps the bike retana fast feel, with some added comfort for longer rides across town.
The Original uses a sealed bearing crank for the rear hub, which also happens to be reversible for the times you need a freewheel ride instead. A KMC Z-240 chain and hard plastic platform pedals help to round out the efficient 44:16 gear ratio for this drivetrain.
A single ProMax caliper brake in the front offers ample stopping power when needed in a moment’s notice. The included lever has a responsive feel to it, without being too sensitive or mushy.
The bike’s wheelset consists of 40mm deep dish rims with added aerodynamics and durability for tough city riding.
WTB ThickSlick Kenda tires go all-in with the bald tire feel, combining a thicker and more durable tire design with a slick tread, for smooth, shock absorbent riding that can withstand small potholes and drops.
The capability to equip accessories such as foot straps, water bottles, racks, and handlebars are just some of the many features of this bike which we explore in Our Pure Fix Original in-depth review.
2. Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Fixie Style Single-Speed
Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Fixie Style Single-Speed
Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Fixie Style Single-Speed
Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Fixie Style Single-Speed is a true street smart fixie that combines the sleek stlye of a fixie with ease of a cruiser bike together to create a versatile bike that is still built for super smooth ride.
Crafted from high-tensile strength steel frame this harper coaster is durable enough and absorbs the bumps in the road easily.
Coaster brakes make the bike safe and add a bit more stopping power when needed for maximum control with no handle-gripping control.
30mm deep-V rims offer the right amount of stability and swiftness, and are paired with attractive Kendal commuter tires that have a tread for smooth handling on city roads.
The Harper Coaster Fixie definitely looks the part, and has all the right components to back it up. This is one of the best combinations of style and functionality you’ll get for an entry level price.
3. 6KU Fixed Gear Single Speed Urban Fixie Road Bike
6KU Fixed Gear Single Speed Urban Fixie Road Bike
6KU Fixed Gear Single Speed Urban Fixie Road Bike
The Fixed Gear Bike by 6KU is of the best urban bike 2020 for commuting, enjoying the weekend and getting around without unnecessary gears and weight. For a city dweller having a bunch of gears is a drawback because stop and start traffic means that you would need to change constantly.
Fixed gear is the way to go in an urban setting, and this bike from 6KU is a perfect choice. Not only is it elegant and stylish, both important characteristics, the quality of the materials and components used is also stellar.
The frame itself is constructed of steel which is incredibly lightweight and uses fork with relaxed geometry to forget your worries of a rough ride. This construction method gives you the best of both worlds, a bike that is light enough to carry upstairs while still being extraordinarily durable.
6KU believes “everyone should be able to own a bike without breaking the bank” which is why they skipped unnecessary features to keep the price affordable and to give you huge value.
Their fixed gear bikes are available in five different colorways so that you can find one to match your personality. Navy blue/black, black/black, burgundy/black, celeste/black,banana colour and white/black.
Every bike is manufactured and designed by 6KU, ensuring that every model that leaves their factory has been stress tested, color approved and quality assured. Plus, they have a hassle free warranty if the bike breaks because of a manufacturing problem.
That’s great, but what about the specifications? This fixed gear bike uses a lightweight steel frame, with a matching fork that gives you strength and comfort.
You’ll notice that it’s packed with features including wide & low handlebar setup and premium aluminum components.
The components are quick and easy to assemble with an assembly video guide provided by the company. With all these features, this bike requires less maintenance as well.
The bike rides on wheels complete with a flip-flop hub, which lets you swap between freewheel and fixed gear so you can coast or use a direct drivetrain. Swapping between them only takes a minute or less!
If you want to remove the front or rear brakes, as many people prefer to do with fixed gear bikes, it’s incredibly easy and will only take a minute or two.
Our in-depth review of the 6KU Urban Track closely examines many of the features of this lightweight aluminum bike, such as its replacable stainless steel dropouts smooth double butted welds.
4. Surly Lowside
Surly Lowside
The bicycle is a genuine mountain road bike bike which gives exceptional speed and productivity on the back alley, dirt ways, and so on.
The frame and the fork is crafted from Surly Lowside . The comfortable seat gives the bike a loud and an eyecatching artwork and is more comfortable and durable with a good high quality materials.
It gives an aggressive riding feel that is perfectly matched with the Surly Sunrise handlebar and stem angling. Velo Lock-on style grips add some comfort to your steering.
You get 26" Alex MD40 rims depending on the finish you go with. Surly Dirt Wizard 26 x 3.0 60tpi Tubeless Ready tires , helping to give the bike its notable durability and toughness.
The wheelset easily tackles bumps and drops in your path, protecting against being, boosting shock absorption, and improving handling.
If you don't want to spend too much when shopping for a brand new fixie, this is your best option.
Check out our Critical Cycles Pursuit in-depth review for a which offers similar features to this bike.
5. Retrospec Bicycles Mantra V2 Single Speed Fixed Gear Bicycle
Retrospec Bicycles Mantra V2 Single Speed Fixed Gear Bicycle
Retrospec Bicycles Mantra V2 Single Speed Fixed Gear Bicycle
Retrospec bicycles single speed fixed gear bike is yet another example that shows you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a quality, stylish fixie that is ready to go from the minute you get it assembled.
This bike offers everything from 15 color options, to surprisingly solid parts and components that have been combined to offer an agile and fun ride.
The frame is crafted from high-tensile steel that has been tig-welded through for a more seamless look.
Promax brakes are on both the front and back wheels, that ensure an appropriate amount of control while riding in the city.
A sealed cartridge bearing hub and flip flop hub, gives the bike extra versatility with a freewheel mode when desired.
The combination of Vp freestyle pedals ,KMC chains and deep v rims makes this bikes and its comfort steel frame, makes it perfect for daily commuting and for cruising at beach.
Overall, the Retrospec bicycles is a solid value, and makes for an ideal introduction to fixies for beginners thanks to its price.
You can also check out our in-depth review of the Golden Cycles bike where we cover everything, from handlebars to brakes.
6. State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061 v2 Aluminum Track Fixed Gear Bike
State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061 v2 Aluminum Track Fixed Gear Bike
State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061 v2 Aluminum Track Fixed Gear Bike
Those who are looking for speed and performance above all else with a fixed gear should strongly consider the Black Label made by State Bicycles. This bike is truly a lightweight beast on the road, and can also hold its own on the track as well.
The Black Label has an aggressive and powerful build that encourages high speeds and quick handling at all times.
The frame is made from 6061 aluminum aero material, and is highlighted by an Essor carbon fiber fork, reducing weight and giving it added shock absorption properties in the front.
A Premium aerodynamic race saddle with steel rails positions the rider to adequately maneuver the drop down handlebars. Although not required to use, the Black Label does come with brakes for the front and back wheels that can be easily mounted on the handlebar.
High flange sealed bearings are found on the bike's rear hub, which can of course be flipped to offer freewheel riding as well. This is coupled with a Classic retrostyle crankset, and a KMC Z410 chain.
CST 700x23c tires give the bike some added speed and balance, option for better steering and power instead of rugged shock absorption and thickness. 700c track wheels with 43mm of depth provide the perfect setting for the tires, and help keep the weight down as well.
Yes, the State Black Label,with its frame build and high-end components make it all worth it. If improved performance is your goal, and you don’t mind some sleek styling as well, the Black Label should be your first choice.
In our review of the SB Black Label we dive deeper into some of the details and features surrounding this fast and efficient fixed gear bike. We thoroughly disect what makes this bike tick.
Retrospec Harper Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike
Retrospec Harper Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike
The Harper is a true commuter bike packaged as a fixed gear, resulting in a natural combination that makes this an affordable and versatile back and forth bike for daily use.
The Harper uses a hand-built steel track frame that gives the rider a better sense of stability and body positioning more conducive for logging some extra miles each day.
A hybrid-style saddle offers some much welcomed comfort, without losing the race-like design many fixed gear riders prefer.
The Harper’s handlebars are very generous with their rise on each end, allowing for a more upright riding position that is easier on your back. Soft rubber grips offer easy steering and handling.
Commuting can be a little more treacherous on a fixie, so this bike included hand brakes on both the front and back for better stopping ability in a moment’s notice. Yes, you can remove them if you’d like, or just go down to one.
A flip flop rear hub provides freewheel riding in just a matter of minutes. VP Freestyle pedals are very wide and light, helping you to maximize your pedal efficiency with each revolution. The best bicycle chain KMC, connects the rear hub and crankset.
30mm deep-V rims with a machined braking surface interact well with the caliper brake pads, avoiding squeaking while improving stopping power. Wanda city tires are a bit on the thin side, but they are very durable, and contribute to the bike’s quick overall feel.
Fixies always make for great commuter bikes, but the Harper really takes the idea to heart. It offers plenty of functionality, without sacrificing style, feel, and comfort. This is easily one of our favorites.
8. SCHWINN STITES SINGLE-SPEED FIXIE BIKE
Schwinn Stites Single-Speed Fixie Bike
SCHWINN STITES SINGLE-SPEED FIXIE BIKE
The Schwinn Stites Single-Speed Fixie Bike is a fixed gear bike that includes a few different approaches for an economical fixed gear. This bike manages to include a noticeable different frame design, and more unique brake choice as well.
The Schwinn is all about steel racing frame and fork. Its frame and fork gives a responsive and a reliable ride. The frame is forged from steel, along with the handlebar, stem, seat post, and even the pedals.
Schwinn urban seat and urban grips offer added comfort at key touch points, not to mention a touch of sleek urban style
The bike’s saddle adds comfort at key touch points, and is a good match for the handlebars complete with urban grips. This helps create the typical bike-oriented riding position but with just enough angling for a more relaxed stance when seated.
Dual alloy calliper brakes are operated to offer crisp all- conditions. One of the standout characteristics is the 46t x 18t single-speed drivetrain with bike’s flip flop hubs . The rear flip flop hub can easily be switched around to offer freewheel riding.
The 700c x 28mm tires are paired with super high profile alloy rims which offer stability and durability. We love the Silver with Blue and White with Black of Schwinn Stites, which comes with a good tire option if you’d like to be a little more bold.
Either way, for under a bike of its price, the Schwinn Stites offers a great value for a lightweight commuter package with less maintenance, and a good way to get into riding fixed gear bikes for cheap.
Our Merax Finiss in-depth review thoroughly covers features such as its unique tire design, along with many other qualities.
9. STATE BICYCLE BERNARD - FIXED GEAR/SINGLE SPEED BIKE
State Bicycle Bernard - Fixed Gear/Single Speed Bike
State Bicycle Bernard - Fixed Gear/Single Speed Bike
State Bicycle co. has a reputation for putting out quality fixed gear bikes that easily are accessible for riders in terms of both budget and feel.
It comes as no surprise that they now offer several fixed gear bikes, with the State bicycle Bernard being one of them.
This classically-styled fixie uses a lightweight 4130 Chromoly frame Set which is superior to hi-tensile steel frames, that offers great stability and momentum as a trade-off.
A rear flip flop hub allows for fixed gear and single speed with coasting, and is part of a drivetrain that uses a 16T fixed cog, and a 46T chainring bottom bracket .
Brakes come on both the front and rear wheels for better stopping power. 43mm double-walled deep-V rims with hubs are a great match for the bike’s 700cx23c city tires with minimal tread.
Overall, State Bicycle Bernard is a good fixed gear bike that merges style with solid components and quality frame materials. Riders who want a comfortable fixie should give this one an extra look.
10. PURE FIX PREMIUM FIXED GEAR SINGLE SPEED BICYCLE
Pure Fix Premium Fixed Gear Single Speed Bicycle
Pure Fix Premium Fixed Gear Single Speed Bicycle
The Pure Fix Premium fixed gear single speed is one of the more unique fixies out there, combining Pure’s potent blend of high-end gear components and strategic design.
The bike’s frame is crafted from high-ten steel, which Pure manages to keep at a low weight of 19 pounds when fully equipped.
The double-butted 4130 full chromoly frame and fork is used for a durable ride. A Pure Fix drome saddle offering just enough coverage and padding to keep things adequately comfortable.
The alloy handlebars on a Pure Fix stem places the rider in an ideal position that encourages speed and agility, but not at the expense of your back and shoulders.
A 44:16 gear ratio is provided by a three-piece sealed bearing crankset, and a flip-flop rear wheel hub. Flat Wellgo pedals include cages for a more secure ride, or better assistance when stopping without hand brakes.
For those that want a hand brake, the Pur Fix includes a front Tektro brake that you can equip or keep off, depending on your preferences. Versatile Kenda tires are paired with 30mm deep dish wheels that encourage higher speeds and better handling.
Brand name components include Kenda Tubes, Wellgo pedals, KMC chain, Tektro front brake
The Pure Fix Premium Fixed Gear Single Speed Bicycle offers more fun, and functionality as well. This is a fixie for those who want to make a statement in a unique way, and all without going over $500.
Consider Buying Second Hand
1. Cinelli Tipo Pista Track Bike
Cinelli Tipo Pista Track Bike
Cinelli Tipo Pista Track Bike
The Cinelli Tipo Pista Track Bike offers a more durable fixed gear bike for those who need a fixie that can withstand some added abuse from demanding city riding.
Swapping out low weight for stability and ruggedness, the Cinelli Tipo Pista Track Bike is built to take on the daily impacts of sprawling urban cores.
The Cinelli Tipo Pista Track Bike is based around an aluminum frame that offers a bit of flex, coupled with a carbon fork for improved toughness.
A saddle offers a fair amount of padding, which is a nice surprise considering the overall build of the bike.
The caliper brakes are found on the front and back of the bike, giving you lots of stopping power that’s perfect for the unpredictability of urban streets.
The wheelset offers a bit of a contrast from its tough frame design. With 700c x 25mm tires, it also features a small amount of tread for added grip on the pavement.
Some other features it includes are classic round Columbus alloy tubing and the extra-long dropouts for perfect chain tension.
This doesn’t offer any unique or standout aspects, but overall, it’s a very quality fixed gear bike that gives riders who need more toughness an affordable option.
Important aspects to consider when buying Best fixed gear bikes
The more you know beforehand, the better your shopping experience and final purchase result will be. Here are the most important things to go over prior to buying a fixed gear bike.
SKILL
In case you weren’t aware, fixed gear bikes do require some skills that go beyond your basic bike riding ability learned at a young age. Most of us are used to having a freewheel for years prior to riding a fixed gear bike, so the drivetrain’s operation changers things fairly drastically.
With fixed gears, the constantly engaged pedals alter how you accelerate and slow, which in turn affects how you navigate the bike and achieve your pedal efficiency. If you’re still a novice in regards to your bike skills, a fixie is going to take some getting used to.
This is especially true if you are going to opt for a brakeless model. If you have never ridden a brakeless fixie, you will need some adjustment and reconfiguring of your riding habits.
In this case, it’s best to get a bike with brakes for emergencies while you learn to stop using other methods.
SIZE
The size of your fixed gear bike is just as important as any other. These bikes generally use a road bike frame design with a flat top tube, so you have to be mindful of the inseam clearance first and foremost.
If you end up with a bike that is too big or too small, the quality of the ride will be affected, which includes your steering and pedal efficiency. The extra control needed for fixed gears places an added emphasis on buying the right size as well.
Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of fixed gear bikes are available in multiple sizes, and not just small, medium or large. Most of the time, you can find a bike in a particular size measured by inches, giving you the ability to purchase the exact size for your body.
PURPOSE
Fixed gear bikes are very popular for commuting and urban transportation in dense areas, but their uses can go well beyond that. Identifying your future bike’s main purpose and usage can help you select the one that is best for that.
If you’re a heavy commuter, and you need a bike that is light, fast, and controlled, it’s best to look for models that are around the 20-22 pound range, have a mid range gear ratio, and include a hand brake as well.
Those who are looking to ride a fixie more casually around the neighborhood or close by, and prefer a little more style will have more choices, since brakeless models will generally be okay, and the bike’s design and aesthetic get a little more attention too.
Riders who are using the fixed gear bike for fitness use and training will want to get a model that places an emphasis on comfort and performance, which will include optimized drivetrain components, a light weight, and maybe even clipless pedals or holsters.
We have covered best bike pedals that will help you improve your endurance and experience when riding your bicycle,
Now, you don’t have to classify yourself in any of these areas, but it does help to consider your main reasons for getting a fixie.
COMPONENTS
A proper understanding of a fixed gear bike comes from having a proper understanding of its core components. Here are the main ones you need to be familiar with.
Fixie Frame
The frame is where it all starts. As we said earlier, fixed gear bikes generally have a road bike-type frame. This gives the bike some added response and control, which helps with speed and maneuvering too.
The usual build of a fixie means you’ll be feeling a lot bumps and shocks in the road, so the frame can help with that in some sense. Aluminum frames are not only lighter, they offer a bit more flex than steel frames, which helps absorb shock.
Steel frames do offer the most in terms of pedal efficiency and stability, so it’s really a trade off, and depends on preference. Most will want a lighter frame, however.
Hub/drivetrain
This is arguably the most important part. A fixed gear bike really is all about the fixed gear, so the components are of the utmost importance for those wanting the best riding experience, speed, and power.
Sealed hubs are usually preferred since they keep out dirt and moisture, and help cut down on the maintenance. Reversible hubs are always a good idea as well, since they give you the option of flipping the wheel around for freewheel riding, which may come in handy from time to time.
The front crank and rear cog comprise the rest of the drivetrain, with their size determining the gear ratio of the bike. Larger cranks will have higher top speeds, but slower acceleration.
Pedals can vary on fixed gears, but a basic BMX-style platform pedal set is very common. Those who want more control, or need assistance with brakeless stopping will want clipless pedals, or toe cages.
Handlebars
The handlebars of a fixie play a large role in determining how it steers, and your actual riding position as well. Handlebars that curve upwards on the sides are more comfortable to ride, but may not offer the right aesthetic to some.
Shorter handlebars are popular among fixie purists, along with a purely flat design. Bullhorns and dropped handlebars are options as well, and depend on your preference and riding needs.
Saddle
The saddle of a fixed gear can vary greatly. Road and racing saddles are very common, but there are some who will want something a little more comfortable, even if it doesn’t look as cool.
For the most part, fixed gear bike saddles are basically road bike saddles with a little extra padding. Some may have a more aggressive shape as well. The saddle’s angle adjustability plays a big role in how it well feel for you and your body size.
Grips for a Single-Speed
Fixed gear bike grips give you plenty of options for expressing your own personal style preferences. BMX-style rubber grips are popular with urban riders who are going for that street fixie look. Taped grips are popular with others.
Rubber grips are going to be the most comfortable, but grips are one of the easiest things you can change out on a bike, so don’t prioritize them too much when shopping -- you can always change them later.
conclusion
We hope you have some clarity now when it comes to shopping for your own fixed gear bike. As we’ve said, all of these bikes are solid, with most of them catering to certain budgets or riding styles.
Just remember to use the criteria we highlighted earlier in the article, and you’ll end up with the perfect single-speed bike for your riding needs.
Let us know how you like your new bike in the comments below, and please feel free to check out our review section for some in-depth examinations of a handful of our favorites from this list.
Schwinn Stites Single-Speed Fixie Bike
SCHWINN STITES SINGLE-SPEED FIXIE BIKE
Why is it better?
96/100
our score
Last Updated On:
How can a high tensile steel bike be number 1? If it is not 4130 it’s not worth riding let alone buying.
Good point, will reconsider my rankings.