Riding a single speed bike is one of the purest joys of cycling. These bikes bring a unique style to the experience, offering a simple yet effective form of transportation. They are widely used for commuting, tackling urban streets with ease, or going on thrilling adventures off the beaten path. Whether it’s for running quick errands, pushing yourself in racing, or mastering new tricks, their versatility is unmatched.
As they become increasingly popular worldwide, more people are considering buying one. If you already own a single speed bike, knowing the benefits of single speed bike is important to enjoy the ride without unnecessary complications.
What are single speed bikes?
A single speed bicycle is a great option for those who want a simple yet efficient ride around town while enjoying some fun along the way. Unlike multi-speed bikes, which have complex setups with multiple gears, these bikes operate on a single gear ratio, eliminating the need for derailleurs to switch between speeds.
The underlying concept is straightforward—one sprocket at the rear, one chainring, and nothing extra to worry about. While the usual gear-changing mechanisms can vary, the beauty of a single speed bike lies in its simplicity, making it a fantastic choice for riders who prefer a low-maintenance and efficient ride.
benefits of single speed bike
Single speed bikes have been around for a long time, but lately, they are getting more popular as people realize how much fun they bring to every ride. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your old bike or invest in a new one, choosing this type of bike can be a top decision for anyone who loves simplicity.
1. They’re light!
One of the best things about single speed bikes is that they are much lighter than geared ones, making every ride smoother and more enjoyable. Since they have no extra gears, they are easy to carry up stairs, onto trains, or through a busy city without any worry.
You can take them anywhere, whether you’re riding around town, commuting to work, exploring a park, or hitting the trails. Their simple transport and minimal weight make them a fantastic type of bike for people who need to move quickly from place to place without hassle.
Related: What Is Singletrack Biking?
2. They’re easy to maintain and repair.
The simplicity of a single speed bike’s setup makes it incredibly easy to maintain and repair since there are fewer parts that could break. With the lack of complicated gears, there’s less that can go wrong, saving both time and effort. This is why many experienced cyclists recommend these bikes for those who prefer a hassle-free riding experience. However, it’s always smart to carry a tool kit with the essentials, just in case something happens unexpectedly on the road.
3. They’re affordable!
One big plus of a single speed bike is that it’s much cheaper than its geared counterparts, making it a great option for those looking to save money. With fewer components and no extra parts, these bikes require less maintenance, which reduces servicing costs over time. You can expect to pay anywhere from £350-£600 for a decent-quality bike that will last long, and if you find the best deal, you might even get a lifetime warranty.
Unlike complex bikes that often need adjusting or replacing broken parts, a single speed keeps things simple. Of course, if you’re into high-end cycling, you can go nuts and build a $10,000 custom carbon fiber model, but for most riders, affordability is key.
4. They keep you fit.
The single speed bike is a classic ride with a modern twist, designed to be ridden at a constant, comfortable speed, making it excellent for commuting and long rides where you can take in the scenery. It’s a great way to stay fit, as cycling regularly means improved physical condition.
Once you develop the habit of riding to different places, you’ll start noticing a positive change in your body—you’ll feel more energised, become healthier, and even get leaner over time. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best benefits of owning a single speed bike.
Related: North Dakota Ebike Laws
5. They increase your concentration and agility.
Riding a single speed bike requires you to stay in tune with your body and how the bike is doing at all times. This means you need to focus on your balance and coordination to ride well and smoothly. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to react quickly to unexpected obstacles in your way, which will make you more agile and improve your overall control on the road.
6. Offer a Fresh Look at Your Favorite Trails
Single speed bikes are great for combating burnout when you’ve ridden the same trails a million times. If you try them on a single speed, the challenge will refresh your experience and motivate you to push harder. I guarantee you’ll discover new things you never noticed on a geared bike before. Plus, because they are more difficult to ride, even a short session where you squeeze in a quick workout becomes incredibly satisfying.
7. Provide a Deeper Understanding of Momentum
When you ride a single speed bike, you naturally learn to respect the power of momentum. Since you can’t change gears, that means no easy spinning when facing slow speeds or tough terrain. If you bog down, your only options are to power through the challenge or stop and walk.
Consequently, you begin to develop techniques to maintain your speed, such as choosing better lines, building speed at every opportunity, and letting the bike roll naturally instead of overusing the brakes.
You’ll feel how to carry speed properly and brake less, making you faster and more fluid on the trail. This new way of riding sharpens your control, and when you apply these lessons to a geared bike, you’ll become smoother and faster than ever.
Related: Idaho eBike Laws
8. Give a More Zen Experience
Single speed bikes offer a very quiet and relaxing ride, allowing you to focus on the road without distractions. With a straight chain that doesn’t slap or rub, there is simply less stuff on the bike to worry about. This minimal design also makes the drivetrain incredibly smooth, giving you a calm and effortless riding experience that feels more connected to the road.
Types of single speed bikes
To understand the different options available, it’s important to know that you can use almost any bike to ride single speed, though there are some limitations depending on the type of riding you plan to do. In general, as long as the frame and wheels are compatible with your preferred style, you can easily convert a regular bike into a single speed. There are many kinds of bikes, each designed for a specific purpose, so it’s best to choose the right one based on your needs before deciding which gearing system will work best for you.
How do single speed bikes work?
Single speed bikes offer a fun and straightforward ride with just one gear setting. This means you control your speed purely by how you pedal. If you’re climbing a hill, you’ll need to push with more energy to go faster, while on a downhill slope, you can freewheel and coast quickly without worrying about shifting gears.
Final Thoughts
Single speed bikes offer an easy and efficient way to travel. They are fun to ride, require minimal maintenance, and are easy to operate, making them a great choice for those who prefer a stress-free cycling experience. These bikes are also robust and simple, helping riders focus on the pure joy of riding without getting confused about gear changes. With all these benefits, it’s clear that a single speed bike is the best choice for anyone looking for a straightforward, enjoyable cycling experience.
Related: Nebraska eBike Laws
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to brake on a single speed bike?
When riding a single-speed bike, you only have one gear, so learning how to stop properly is essential. The key is to use your momentum wisely—when it’s time to slow down, instead of relying only on the brakes, you can gradually ease off your pedaling. If your bike has hand brakes, they work by pulling a cable when you squeeze the levers on the handlebars. This creates tension in the system, which runs through the brake pads and slows the wheels smoothly.
To improve your control, practice braking in a safe area where you can try alternative ways of stopping. At first, these methods may feel strange, but after a few tries, you’ll get better at managing your speed. Learning to apply the right technique will make your braking more efficient, helping you ride with confidence like a pro.
Which is better, fixed gear or single-speed bikes?
When comparing single-speed and fixed gear bikes, many people think they are interchangeable, but they have key differences. Both are gearless and simple to maintain, but the major difference lies in the freewheel mechanism. A fixed gear bike lacks this device, meaning the rear wheel moves only when you pedal, so you cannot coast like you can on a single-speed. If you want a ride that allows you to stop pedaling and glide, a single-speed is the perfect option. However, if you prefer a more controlled and engaged ride, a fixed gear might suit your lifestyle better.
Some single-speed bikes can be adapted into fixed gear models, thanks to clever design choices like those found in Steed bikes, which are delivered as single-speed but allow you to switch between the two types. Before deciding, it’s best to do some research to find the best bike for your specific needs. If you’re not sure, you can book a test ride to learn more and avoid the five common mistakes people make when purchasing a fixed gear bike.
Related: Ohio Ebike Laws
How can I increase my biking speed?
To increase your biking speed, you need to focus on improving your overall fitness level and building endurance. Optimizing your bike’s gearing and maintaining proper maintenance ensures smoother rides with less resistance. Additionally, practicing efficient pedaling techniques will help you generate more power with less effort, making your rides faster and more controlled.
What is the ideal speed for biking?
The ideal biking speed varies depending on different factors, such as the terrain, the rider’s fitness level, and the type of bike being used. For most recreational cyclists, a comfortable speed usually falls within the range of 10 to 15 miles per hour on flat roads.
Related: Arkansas Ebike Laws
Related: Virginia Ebike Laws
