fixtie

Fixtie (often spelled fixie) is an informal term for a fixed-gear bicycle, a bicycle whose rear wheel is driven directly by a cog fixed to the hub. On a fixed-gear drivetrain, the pedals rotate whenever the wheel does, and the rider cannot coast.

Most fixties are single-speed bicycles without rear derailleurs. They may use a flip-flop hub that provides a fixed gear on one side and a freewheel on the other. Braking is typically accomplished with a front brake; backpedaling can slow or stop a fixed-gear bike, but coasting is not possible on a true fixed-gear setup.

Fixtie bicycles originated in track racing but gained urban popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. They became associated with minimalist aesthetics and rider communities that value simplicity, light weight, and a direct connection to the road. Variants include city fixties, track-inspired bikes used on velodromes, and conversions of standard road bikes.

Specifications commonly include 700c wheels, steel or aluminum frames, and simple components. Common gear ratios for street riding range roughly from 44/16 to 48/17, with adjustments made for rider weight and terrain. Tires are typically narrow to mid-width, such as 23–28 mm.

Maintenance emphasizes keeping correct chain tension on fixed setups, maintaining hub bearings, brakes, and overall drivetrain cleanliness. Because the drivetrain has no freewheel, handling requires attention to pedal input and braking technique. Safety considerations include reliable braking, wearing a helmet, and awareness that fixed-gear riding demands continuous rider engagement and balance.