My winter fixed Dunelt is ready

[fossala]

First 32 mile ride completed and looking forward to getting load's more winter miles in .

Quick question about descending on a fixed gear what's the best way ?

The best tip for descending is to relax. Being tense makes movements less fluid.

 

[biggs682]

The best tip for descending is to relax. Being tense makes movements less fluid.

Tried this on today's fixed ride and it works .
Felt a lot more relaxed and at ease on descents .

 

[biggs682]

He’s grown a beard and got a top knot!

Not got enough to do a top knot .

Another 35 miles this morning

 

[biggs682]

Just to show how hip me and the Dunelt are we stopped at Bozeat skate park this morning.

 

[12boy]

It's not a sin to fit a front brake. When I rode fixed that brake saved me on more than one occasion. Knowing it was there enabled me to relax when riding downhill or in situations where unexpected quick stops are likely.

 

[12boy]

After riding fixed for a while on 700 c 28 mm tires I hankered for wider. My surly steamroller claims 38 mm possible but not with a rear brake, I found. The fork is fine. In terms of winter riding, Schwalbe 35 mm studded tires really make a difference on icy roads and can cut through some snow too. They do raise the effort level a bit so a lower gear may be needed. I've found fixed gear bikes a bit better on slick surfaces they seem more sensitive to sensing traction loss. The front brake sure is nice on an icy road, though.

 

[rogerzilla]

I've never fallen off on slippy roads when on fixed. I think it just demands more concentration,so you're more careful to begin with. Also, you can slow down gently through the pedals with very little risk of skidding.

 

[biggs682]

Another 49+ miles this morning on this machine really enjoying the simplicity of fixed wheel riding .

 

[rogerzilla]

I'll do 35 miles on the yellow Harry Quinn fixie tomorrow morning. I much prefer it unless the terrain is extreme. Long flattish rides like the Dunwich Dynamo are great on fixed. I'd never do it on gears again.

 

[biggs682]

I'll do 35 miles on the yellow Harry Quinn fixie tomorrow morning. I much prefer it unless the terrain is extreme. Long flattish rides like the Dunwich Dynamo are great on fixed. I'd never do it on gears again.

I am finding It's all about getting the right tempo going and tailoring your routes to suit

 

[Yellow Saddle]

Quick question about descending on a fixed gear what's the best way ?

Walk down.

 

[biggs682]

My rotation scheme has bought this one back to the top of the pile again for a couple of weeks

 

[CXRAndy]

Never saw the point of fixed gearing outside a track environment. A freewheel is far superior and matches the simple drive line.

 

[fossala]

Never saw the point of fixed gearing outside a track environment. A freewheel is far superior and matches the simple drive line.

I think many would be to differ.

 

[12boy]

I am currently single speed, largely because the hills here require 140+rpm descents on a fixie. There are still a couple of things I prefer on a fixie, although this is just my opinion.
When riding on ice and snow the fixie keeps me more aware of traction or lack thereof . It also allows me to shed speed when my rims are wet or icy and the brakes don't work well.
I am very familiar with the bike routes in my little town and unfortunately fall into a Zen autopilot state in which I am not vigilant. As we know, vigilance is not only the cost of freedom but also is a requisite for avoiding accidents. Riding fixed requires me to pay attention and so is safer, since inattention by me or car drivers have caused all my accidents.
It's fun to have that direct drive connection with the bike. I like chicken but a big bloody steak is tasty too.