Riding a bike with a single gear can feel incredibly pure and connected. But if you're new to the world of minimalist cycling, you've likely come across two terms: single-speed and fixed-gear. While they might seem the same, there's one crucial difference that changes the entire riding experience. This guide, based on insights from the "Questions Answered" series, will break down everything you need to know to find your perfect ride. Priority Fixed Gear and Single-Speed Models Priority Joker - Designed for velodrome and closed course track racing. Priority Ace - Spades version features a flip-flop hub fixed sprocket (sold separately) Priority Coast - Available in single-speed, 3 speed, and 7 speed. Priority Sauce - Available as single-speed (Sauce) and eight speed (Hot Sauce) What's the Key Difference? The Ability to Coast Both single-speed and fixed-gear bikes have a single front chainring and a single rear cog, meaning they have just one gear ratio. However, the fundamental distinction lies in whether you can coast. Single-Speed Bikes: These bikes are equipped with a freewheel mechanism, which is similar to a ratchet. This allows the rear wheel to turn freely without forcing the pedals to move. When you stop pedaling on a single-speed bike, you can coast just like on a regular geared bicycle. Fixed-Gear (Fixie) Bikes: On a fixed-gear bike, the rear cog is directly connected to the rear hub. This means if the back wheel is moving, the pedals are moving. You cannot stop pedaling unless the bike is completely stationary. This direct connection gives riders a unique sense of control and "being connected to the bike and road". The ability to coast is what makes the two bike types so meaningful and distinct from one another. Pros and Cons of Single-Speed Bikes Single-speed bikes offer a blend of simplicity and practicality, making them a popular choice for urban commuting and casual riding. Pros: Low Maintenance: With fewer parts to break or wear out—no derailleurs, shifters, or multiple chainrings—single-speed bikes are incredibly simple and easy to maintain. This makes them a durable option, especially for winter commuting. Lightweight: The absence of extra components makes these bikes lighter than their geared counterparts, making them easier to carry up stairs or onto public transport. Affordable: Due to their simple design and fewer components, single-speed bikes are often more affordable to purchase and maintain. Simplicity and Focus: Riding a single-speed removes the mental effort of shifting gears, allowing you to focus on the ride itself and enjoy the experience. Cons: Limited Versatility: The single gear ratio means adapting to varied terrain, like steep hills, can be challenging and requires more physical effort. You have to stand up and pedal hard to get up hills. Not Ideal for Long Distances: The lack of multiple gears can lead to fatigue on extended journeys, as you cannot coast to rest or adjust your cadence for different speeds. Pros and Cons of Fixed-Gear Bikes Riding a fixie is often described as the "purest form of cycling". They are a favorite among track cyclists and city messengers for their unique characteristics. Pros: Enhanced Connection and Feel: Because your legs are always in motion with the wheels, you feel a direct connection to the bike and the road. This can improve your pedaling technique and leg strength. Power and Efficiency: The direct drive system ensures that all your energy is transferred straight to the rear wheel. This provides a powerful and efficient ride with a smooth pedal stroke and no "dead spot" in the stroke. Low Maintenance: Like single-speed bikes, fixies have minimal parts, making them simple and durable. The video transcript also highlights how a belt drive system can make a fixed-gear bike even lower maintenance, as the belt doesn't need to be lubricated and lasts longer than a chain. Unique Braking: You can slow down and stop by resisting the forward motion of the pedals, which is known as backpedaling, or by skidding the rear wheel. However, most road-legal fixies in many places are also equipped with a front brake. Cons: Cannot Coast: The inability to coast means your legs are constantly moving, which can be tiring on long rides and particularly challenging on downhills, where the pedals can spin at a very high speed. Learning Curve: Fixed-gear bikes require a certain level of skill to ride safely, especially for braking. The constant pedaling and braking method requires practice to become second nature. Not for Hilly Terrain: Climbing hills is more demanding as you cannot shift into an easier gear. Higher Risk of Injury: Without a freewheel, you must constantly keep your legs moving. If you forget or fall, there is a chance of being thrown over the handlebars. What About a Belt Drive System? Is a belt-drive system a good option for a single-speed or fixed-gear bike? The answer is "definitely." A belt drive system is even better than a chain because it doesn't need lubrication, won't rust, and lasts longer. It also provides a smoother ride, as there is no chain slack to take up when you start pedaling. How to Convert a Multi-Speed Bike If you're interested in trying a single-speed or fixed-gear bike, you can convert your existing multi-speed bike. While a fixed-gear conversion is more involved, a single-speed conversion can be a simple way to start. Single-Speed Conversion: A simple way to try it out is to shorten your chain and run it over a single sprocket on your cassette and a single chainring. You'll need to use a chain tensioner to keep the chain from being too loose, or use the existing rear derailleur as a tensioning device. Fixed-Gear Conversion: Converting to a fixie is more challenging, as you need a bike with horizontal dropouts to adjust chain tension. It often involves removing derailleurs and shifters, and replacing the cassette with a single cog.