Single Speed or Fixie
While singlespeed bikes and fixies may appear similar due to their lack of gears, there are significant differences between the two setups that should be considered when choosing how to set up your new bike.
Singlespeed bikes are equipped with a freewheel cog, which spins independently of the pedals, similar to a traditional bike. In contrast, on a fixie, the rear cog is directly joined (or fixed) with the rear hub. This means that when the wheel of a fixie turns, the cog, along with the crank arms and pedals, will also turn. This fundamental difference in drivetrain design affects how each type of bike rides and behaves on the road.
A flip-flop hub means that the rear wheel has a fixed gear sprocket on one side and a freewheel sprocket on the other side. Remove and turn the wheel around to change.
Single speed
On a single-speed bike, the rear cog is a freewheel, allowing it to spin independently of the hub. When you pedal, the motion drives the rear hub to turn, similar to a traditional bike. However, when you stop pedaling, the rear wheel can continue to spin freely without engaging the crank arms. This allows you to coast along without needing to pedal, providing a familiar riding experience akin to riding a bike with multiple gears.
Fixie (Fixed Gear)
These days, the term "fixie" is commonly used, but what exactly is a fixie? Fixed gear bicycles, often referred to as fixies, are bikes that lack a freely independent rear cog. In a fixie, the rear cog is firmly fixed to the hub of the rear wheel. This means that when the rear wheel is turning, the cog will also be turning, along with the crank arms. As a result, when riding a fixed gear bike, you cannot coast. Your legs must pedal continuously while the bike is in motion.
To illustrate, think back to your old tricycle from childhood. The pedals were directly attached to the wheels. If the wheels turned, the pedals turned as well. Whether you pedaled forward or backward, the wheels would correspondingly turn in the same direction. Similarly, in a fixie, the direct connection between the pedals and the rear wheel creates a continuous pedaling motion, providing a unique riding experience characterized by constant engagement and control.