Back in my student days, I saved up from my part-time job to buy my first fixed gear bike. Although I've since explored road bikes and mountain bikes, at that time, I had little interest in anything but fixies. Yet, here I am today, working earnestly in a bike shop. Why did I fall so deeply in love with fixies? Why did I choose one in the first place? Let me share my straightforward thoughts about fixies from my student days.
The Look Caught My Heart
The simple yet stylish design of single-gear bikes struck a chord with me. I've always been into street fashion and had a keen interest in clothes, which explains why the athletic look of road and mountain bikes didn't appeal to me. Cross bikes felt lacking, and BMX bikes didn't seem practical for extending my range. That's when fixed gear bikes entered the picture, sparked by a skateboarding friend who visited my house on his fixie. fixed gear bikes were the only type of bicycle that could double as a fashion statement. It's probably the same reason many artists gravitate toward fixed gear bikes — they're just so stylish.
Tricks are Fun
I couldn’t do extravagant tricks, but anyone can do a skid. The 'skid' trick, unique to fixed gear bikes, became the essence of my riding pleasure. Learning to skid, to decelerate or stop by pedaling backward, made the rides far from boring; I rode and skidded a lot, especially when I was just getting the hang of it. Even mastering simple tricks can expand the fun of riding a fixed gear.
Fascinating Customizations
Many fixed gear riders are bike enthusiasts, and I'm no exception. I was into motorbikes before fixed gear bikes, not just riding them but customizing them, too. The customization possibilities for fixed gear bikes are virtually limitless, and compared to motorbikes, the parts are more affordable, making full customizations easily attainable. There's no need for inspections, and compatibility checks for parts are straightforward. The simplicity of fixed gear bikes makes them easy to tailor to your preferences, fulfilling the male desire for "full customization."
I worked hard at my part-time job during my student days to afford my first fixed gear bike. It was an entry-level model, and honestly, I yearned for something more expensive. But as a student, the most I could stretch to was about ¥100,000, which was quite manageable with a month's earnings. For today's students, I'd recommend something like the LEADER 721TR, a slightly luxurious model within that price range.
LEADER 721TR Complete Bike
Let me show you a bit of the 721TR customization. Whether you're starting with a custom bike or looking for inspiration for future customizations, I hope you find this interesting.
LEADER 721TR Shred88 Custom: Learn More
LEADER 721TR Promenade: Learn More
LEADER 721TR Newera: Learn More
LEADER 721TR Contrast: Learn More
Aiming for a better bike in the future is a great goal. The first step is to enjoy riding a fixie. Spend your weekends doing tricks and rainy days online digging for parts. I often wish I could go back to my student days with all that free time.
Life with a fixed gear bike might just be what you're looking for.
P.S Interested in exploring more about fixed gear? Contact us to learn more. Also, follow us on Instagram @brotures_global to stay updated. Let's make your ride uniquely yours.
Mittz