Digging Deeper
2. Distinguishing Between the Two
Okay, let's clear up something important that often confuses people: fixed gear versus single-speed bikes. They aren't the same! A single-speed bike has one gear ratio, just like a fixie, but it has a freewheel. This means you can pedal, but you can also coast. Single-speeds are great for urban riding where you want simplicity but still appreciate the ability to stop pedaling when necessary. They're like fixies, but with training wheels removed...and then a freewheel bolted back on for good measure.
Imagine you're cruising down a slight hill. On a single-speed, you can stop pedaling and enjoy the ride. On a fixie? Your legs are spinning right along with the rear wheel. This difference is a big deal, especially when navigating traffic or handling unexpected situations. It's why single-speeds are generally considered more practical for everyday use, while fixies often attract a more dedicated, dare I say, hardcore following.
The key difference lies in that freewheel mechanism. It's the unsung hero of comfortable cycling, allowing you to rest your legs and maintain momentum. Without it, you're perpetually engaged in the act of pedaling, which can be both exhilarating and exhausting, depending on your perspective and the terrain you're tackling.
Therefore, to reiterate, a fixie and a single-speed bike both have one gear ratio but a fixie does not have a freewheel, but a single-speed does. It is important to note this difference.
So, Can You Make a Fixie Freewheel?
3. Exploring the Possibilities (and Practicality)
Technically, yes, you could modify a fixie hub to accept a freewheel, or even replace the fixed cog with a freewheel. However, this kind of defeats the entire purpose of having a fixie in the first place. The beauty of a fixie lies in its simplicity, its direct connection to the road, and the unique control it offers. Adding a freewheel would essentially turn it into a single-speed bike, losing that distinct fixie feel.
Furthermore, modifying a fixie to freewheel could create some safety concerns. Fixie riders are used to being able to slow down or stop by resisting the pedals (a technique known as "skidding"). If you suddenly have a freewheel, you lose that ability, which could be dangerous in emergency situations. It's like taking away the brakes of a car, and expecting the driver to stop with their feet.
If you are really keen on having a fixie and a freewheel, the best solution would be to simply get a single-speed. Single-speeds provide a simpler riding experience, much like fixies, but you would also have the function of being able to coast or freewheel, which would be beneficial when riding on flat roads or downhill slopes.
In short, while mechanically possible, converting a fixie to freewheel is generally not recommended. It diminishes the inherent characteristics of a fixie and potentially compromises safety. If you desire the freedom to coast, a single-speed bicycle is a much more practical and sensible choice.
