Riding a single speed bike is an uncomplicated experience, but if you want to push it to go fast, there are a few key modifications you should consider. I’ve spent years fine-tuning my own ride, testing different ways to maximize speed without compromising control. The secret lies in both the riding style and the small adjustments you make to the bike itself. Many riders have wondered how to make single speed bike faster, and in this article, I’ll share exactly what you need to know to transform your ride into a more efficient machine.
6 ways to make a single speed bike faster
Change your tyre pressure
One of the easiest ways to make your single speed bike go fast is by adjusting your tire pressure. Many riders overlook this simple tweak, but the right pressure can make a huge difference. Check the PSI range printed on the side of your tires and pump them accordingly. If you prefer a comfortable ride with better grip on the road, especially in wet or muddy conditions, keeping the pressure on the low end can help. This setup also reduces the risk of a puncture, especially when riding over rough terrain.
However, if you want to hit top speeds, increasing the pressure to the high end of the scale is the way to go. A higher pressure means less contact with the ground, reducing friction and allowing for a smoother, faster ride. Plus, a properly inflated tire makes the bike more responsive, which helps when navigating tight corners.
Adjust the gear ratio
If you ride a single speed or fixie and want to go faster, tweaking your gear ratio is key. The gear setting on these bikes is determined by the number of teeth on the front and rear sprockets. A higher ratio means more speed, making it the best option if reaching top speed is your priority.
In practice, this setup makes pedaling from a standstill feel like hard work, but once you move, you’ll cover more ground with each push of the pedal. To increase the ratio, switch to a larger chainring or a smaller cog, allowing for a smoother, more efficient ride at high speeds.
Adjust chain tension
Getting the right chain tension is crucial for a smoother, faster ride. If the chain is too tight, it creates unnecessary friction, slowing you down. If it’s too loose, there’s a risk of it falling off, which affects your speed and control. To find the Goldilocks balance, gently move the chain up and down—it should wiggle about 1 cm in either direction.
If you notice the chain moving too much, a tension adjustment is needed. Try loosening the rear tire and shifting it slightly forwards or back until you get the perfect setup for maximum efficiency.
Related: Benefits of Single Speed Bike
Perform basic bike maintenance
Whether you ride on the road or tackle rough mountain trails, dirt build-up over time can slow you down. It affects the movement of key bike components, making your ride less efficient. To maintain efficiency, commit to regular maintenance, which includes cleaning your bike after a muddy ride and lubricating the chain. A well-maintained drive chain helps you travel faster and improves performance. Plus, taking care of your bike will prolong its life, ensuring a smooth and powerful ride every time.
Make rider and bike more aerodynamic
If you want to boost your speed like a pro cyclist, wearing the right gear matters. While full lycra suits aren’t for everyone, choosing streamlined clothing can help shave valuable seconds off your cycling time. Avoid bulkiness in your outerwear, as looser fabric catches wind and slows you down. A skin-tight ensemble isn’t necessary, but lighter, fitted clothes can make a real difference when riding for performance.
Your body position also plays a key role in reducing air resistance. The lower and smaller you are, the less drag you’re creating. Tuck in your elbows, drop your shoulders, and keep your knees aligned over the balls of your feet to maintain an optimal stance. Adjusting your bike seat height helps with efficiency and control. For a super fast single speed ride, make your trusty steed as aerodynamic as possible by removing bottle holders, mudguards, and panniers—a streamlined setup equals a speedy ride.
Improve your fitness
There’s no quick fix to getting faster on a single speed bike, but improving your strength will make a big difference. Unlike a geared bike, where you can fall back on different gears, riding a single speed relies entirely on leg power. The best way to improve is through interval training and activities that strengthen your legs and core. Simply heading out for rides on a regular basis will help you develop the fitness levels needed to ride at faster speeds with ease.
What does it mean to sprint on a bike?
Sprinting on a bike means pushing yourself to go fast in a short burst using all your muscles, including your legs, glutes, lungs, and heart. This intense workout helps improve your fitness level, builds endurance for longer biking sessions, and can increase both speed and stamina in cycling.
It also strengthens flexibility and strength, making you a more efficient rider. However, there are risks associated with sprinting, including the chance of injury, so it’s important to start slow and gradually build up over time until you feel comfortable with the exercise.
How long should I sprint for?
Your sprint attempts should last between 5 and 30 seconds to maximize effectiveness. These brief bursts of high energy push your body to its limits and can feel challenging, especially if you usually ride in an aerobic training zone. To become better at sprinting, you need to focus on proper technique and build your general strength over time.
How to sprint on a fixie
Cycling requires more than just strength and speed; it also requires using the right form. Sadly, despite the fact that technique needs just as much attention as strength and acceleration, it is usually ignored.
Learn how to ride off the saddle
Standing on your bike pedals might seem like a no-brainer, but not every rider feels comfortable doing it while moving. If this is a concern, you’ll need to get over it because sprinting requires you to stand up to transfer maximum power. The best way to improve is through practice, periodically rising from the saddle until it feels natural and helps you push harder for better speed.
Don’t lean too far forward
When you lift from the saddle, avoid leaning far forward, as this can throw off your balance. Instead, maintain a vertical line from your front axle to your shoulders to keep control. Too much weight on the front wheel makes the bike difficult to manage and reduces your overall speed. Keeping the right posture will help you ride more efficiently and maintain better stability at high speeds.
Related: What Is Singletrack Biking?
Start on your strong foot
Bring your strongest foot up and over the top of the pedaling circle to start the sprint.
Keep your body stable
Continue to keep your upper body relatively relaxed. During the commotion of a sprint, it will move a little, but not too much.
Allow your bike to move side to side
To ride fast, you need to maintain a forward-facing front wheel while allowing your bike to sway back and forth. This rocking motion is natural and necessary to transfer maximum power when sprinting. Don’t be afraid of tipping the bike slightly right and left—moving aggressively helps generate speed and keeps you balanced during intense efforts.
Look forward
Always keep your head up and your gaze forward. Particularly at these speeds, you don’t want to divert your attention from your destination.
Pull up on the handlebars for extra power
When pushing down with your left foot, your bike will naturally move to the right, allowing you to pull up on the handlebars with your left hand. As your right foot drives down, do the same with your right hand to keep the motion balanced. This controlled movement helps transfer maximum power from side to side for better speed and efficiency. Also, keep your elbow bent to maintain control and avoid unnecessary strain while sprinting.
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Try using drop bars
If you want to sprint more efficiently, consider switching to drop bars instead of riser bars. They help you get into a more aerodynamic position, reducing wind resistance and making your bike traveling fast much easier. However, they can be challenging to manage, especially at high speeds, so it’s important to practice your handling methods before making the switch. If you’re serious about improving performance, drop bars can give you the edge you need.
Don’t forget to practice
They say practice makes perfect, and this applies to cycling as well. There’s no exception when it comes to improving your speed. Take every chance you get to push yourself, and don’t be afraid to throw in a sudden sprint whenever possible.
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FAQs
Does sprinting make your legs bigger?
The quick answer is no—riding a bike won’t make your legs significantly bigger on its own. Cycling is an aerobic workout that stimulates endurance by strengthening muscle fibers, making them more resistant to exhaustion during training without causing excessive bulking. However, if you ride long distances, you may notice some muscle gain over time, but not to the extent of strength-based exercises like weightlifting.
How do you ride a fixed gear bike faster?
Before sprinting on a fixed gear or track bike, it’s important to know how to ride off the saddle properly. Avoid leaning too far forward, as this can throw off your balance. Instead, let your bicycle move side to side naturally while maintaining control. Always look ahead and use your arms to raise the handlebars for added strength. If you want the best control and speed, consider using drop bars for a more aerodynamic position.
How can I improve my bike sprinting?
If you want to increase your leg speed for sprinting, one of the best ways is incorporating interval training into your routine. This type of training alternates between short, high-intensity bursts of exercise and shorter, less-intense rest periods.
