Commuting - Commuting on a fixed

I've been commuting to work ever since my move to SC (about two and half weeks now) and I've been thinking of regearing my fixie and commuting on it. The rides about 7-8 miles. Any thoughts?

Oh I used to ride my fixed on actually road rides for 30 some miles so I'm not too worried abotu distance or anything.



Thanks

Depends on what kind of commute you have.

My commute to work is seven miles one way and I choose NOT to ride my fixie to work because the first couple of miles are extremely hazardous with a very narrow four-lane main drag (the stupid car drivers THINK it's a drag strip!):rolleyes:so I'm on the sidewalk half the time anyway. Cars (and busses) are turning in front of me and sometimes I can get forced into curbs or hitting a rock or whatever. Whan I somehow manage to get through this the next five miles is smooth sailing. I suppose I can take another route but it would be too far out of my way. Fixies would just be too dangerous (for ME, anyway).

I think a good idea would be a fixed/freewheel rear hub where you can freewheel to work (if you have to get there quickly) and ride fixed going home when you are more relaxed and want to ENJOY the ride.

Of course other riders commutes might be different than mine!

I rode my fixed gear on my commute when I get the urge... my main commute is pretty much flat, thru an urban area. About 4 miles each way. If you're commuting on a fixie, I'd put a front brake on the bike as a backup, just in case, to heck with style.

i have a road bike and a fixed. the fixed get 75-80% of my rides mostly commuting.
get something(gearing) you are comfortable with. front brake and a fender perhaps.

I commute on fixed most of the time. It's simply much more durable and lower maintenance than anything else.

yeah man, fixed is the way to go for a commute. the bike is a maintenance dream, and reliability is the name of the game for a commuter. tho, the route you take will determine if its a safe decsion. a front brake is a good idea if youre commute isnt all bike path. it seems like i have a similar situation as yours, and i wouldnt ride any other type of bike.

let us know what you do

I commute on a fixed too. I think the main question is, how hilly is your route? Commuting on a fixed is definately low maintenance, and the pedals kick the momentum right back into my legs. :D