Bike shopping: what is a fixie? We explain it

For some it is hip, for others practical, others again can not gain much from the principle. Fixies polarize, but are in trend. Our guide explains the term.

Hipster bike or sensible purchase? At Fixies divide the spirits.

Fixies are oriented to the principle of the arrow-fast track bikes, but are used in the city. A look at the advantages and disadvantages is all the more important.

What is a fixie - and what are the advantages?

The term fixie is derived from "fixed gear":

• Fixies have only one gear or transmission. A circuit there is consequently not.
• Furthermore, the rear wheel is fixed with the pedals - a freewheel (when pedaling backwards) you are therefore looking in vain.
• Because of this feature, the Fixie also does without brakes: braked can be the wheel namely by pedaling backwards.

Because of the waiver of so many components, the Fixie is very purist, lightweight and low maintenance. All this is practical in everyday life, but not StVo compliant. This is quite justified, since the pedals can not provide anything like the same deceleration as real brakes - the safety is thus lower than on normal bikes.In addition, as with all single-speed bikes: Riding with only one gear ratio is only practical when there is little downhill. Ultimately, it is thus also a question of priorities, whether the fixie fits its rider.