Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - New to the game, looking for suggestions.

Hey guys, new to the forums and fixies/SS in general.

I'm 24, out of school, and looking to grab a SS just to cruise around on.

Surfing craigslist with about a $400 budget... Any advice? Thinking a flip-flop hub would be idea since being able to coast @ the boardwalk and such would be nice.

Here are a few I was looking at...

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/bik/2316622649.html

Seems decent, already talked him down to much less.

http://annapolis.craigslist.org/bik/2271488909.html

Talked this guy down to $350 and he's pretty close by.

Think those are fair prices to pay for either one of those? That Globe Roll 2 seems like its a steal if everything checks out on it.

Thanks for any help in advance, I know these posts are probably annoying to some of the more veteran members of the forum but I could use the help - thanks.

It's called a scene not a game....

It's called a scene not a game....

Super insightful, so you're saying I should go with the Roll 2?

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/kilott.htm

I'd recommend the Globe just for the fact that its a bit newer bike. Now, i am not hating on old bikes, i'm just saying it will be much easier to have an idea of what the Globe has been through throughout its entire life than the 70's bridgestone. You can always check the frame for noticeable defects, but you never really know whats it has been through in the last 40 years. It is also a conversion, which, again not hating on anything, but the Specialized is a bike that was built to be a SS/FG.

Also, about how tall are you or rather what is the inseam on your pants? The Globe is an "Extra Large" and the Bridgestone seems to be slightly big as well. You really shouldn't buy a bike that does not fit you. So you should see what size bike you need.

One last thing, have you checked out Bikes Direct at all? They have numourous bikes to fit your budget. One of the most commen referalls for new riders is teh Kilo TT. Another cheaper choice is the Windsor "The Hour". Both very good starter bikes. You can also then have the choice to pick different size bikes that will fit you well.

Hope this helps a little.

Link to BIKES DIRECT HERE (http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/trackbikes.htm)

.Chris


EDIT: Yummy beat me to the Kilo TT post...haha

sounds like you already have your heart set on the globe. you've mentioned it twice unprompted outside of the original context.


fwiw, i would get the globe roll.

fwiw, it's not a scene it's a gloryhole.

I'd recommend the Globe just for the fact that its a bit newer bike. Now, i am not hating on old bikes, i'm just saying it will be much easier to have an idea of what the Globe has been through throughout its entire life than the 70's bridgestone. You can always check the frame for noticeable defects, but you never really know whats it has been through in the last 40 years. It is also a conversion, which, again not hating on anything, but the Specialized is a bike that was built to be a SS/FG.

Also, about how tall are you or rather what is the inseam on your pants? The Globe is an "Extra Large" and the Bridgestone seems to be slightly big as well. You really shouldn't buy a bike that does not fit you. So you should see what size bike you need.

One last thing, have you checked out Bikes Direct at all? They have numourous bikes to fit your budget. One of the most commen referalls for new riders is teh Kilo TT. Another cheaper choice is the Windsor "The Hour". Both very good starter bikes. You can also then have the choice to pick different size bikes that will fit you well.

Hope this helps a little.

Link to BIKES DIRECT HERE (http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/trackbikes.htm)

.Chris


EDIT: Yummy beat me to the Kilo TT post...haha

Thanks for the insight - I have checked out BD but I've heard mixed reviews about ordering from them, so I'm just exploring all my options before I pull the trigger on anything...

I'm 6'0, my inseam is probably around 30''(guessing, don't have a tape-measure within arms reach this moment). Looks like the Globe might be a hair too big for me.

Appreciate the input though, I was leaning towards the Globe for all the reasons you listed in the first paragraph - the mileage on the frame, the fact that its converted, etc.

Any particular Kilo TT Model I should be aiming for?

sounds like you already have your heart set on the globe. you've mentioned it twice unprompted outside of the original context.


fwiw, i would get the globe roll.

fwiw, it's not a scene it's a gloryhole.

I don't have my heart set on anything at this point - I'm leaning towards the Globe because it's much newer. But I'm really open to any options at this point. I want something that isn't going to fall apart on me - but also wont break the bank(**** happens, bikes get stolen, I'm impoverished, etc).

I know you get what you pay for but I figure I can just upgrade **** as it breaks - as long as it has a decent frame I guess.

But it looks like that Globe is and XL size and I'm only 6'0'' so it might be too big for me anyway.

Thanks for the input though, appreciate it.

Also found this one, I could probably talk him down to $250 - looks like he didn't take very good care of it though(Tires are flat, badge looks chewed up?).

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/bik/2321064762.html

Thanks again guys, keep it coming.

But it looks like that Globe is and XL size and I'm only 6'0'' so it might be too big for me anyway.


You can't possibly shop for a used bike without knowing exactly what fits you. I am 6'1" with a 34" leg length (stocking feet, back to wall, book pressed upward to pubic bone, mark wall, measure up from floor), which makes my proportions in the standard range. I can fit a 58cm frame up to a 61cm frame, but must adjust stem reach and seat height accordingly. My top tube length plus stem reach length must equal approximately 68.5 cm for proper fit, although there can be some fudging depending on bar type and brake lever placement.

If you're 6' but have only 30" inseam, you would have a longer torso than average. You'd want to be very conscious about top tube length and stem reach to fit yourself. This might drive you to larger frames with shorter stems, but might not, depending on the frame geometry. Your real inseam measurement (from a bike fit perspective, not a pants rack perspective) may be longer than you realize.

Take some accurate measurements then begin looking again. Your local bike shop should permit you to ride a few bikes in your size, but it's best to be up front with them about your budget and what you intend to purchase. That way, they'll know that they're investing in you for future business, but not likely the sale of the bike that you test ride.

Phil G.

fwiw, it's not a scene it's a gloryhole.

this is full of win.

Any particular Kilo TT Model I should be aiming for?

Whichever floats your boat. The TT, TT Pro, and Stripper are all the same frame with different finishes. The Pro, as the name and price suggest, has nicer components. The TT and Stripper are essentially the exact same bike, with different paint jobs. The WT has different geometry (I believe?) and fits huge tires (just ask gysewho). The S3X (if they still sell it) has an internally geared fixed hub.

Whichever floats your boat. The TT, TT Pro, and Stripper are all the same frame with different finishes. The Pro, as the name and price suggest, has nicer components. The TT and Stripper are essentially the exact same bike, with different paint jobs. The WT has different geometry (I believe?) and fits huge tires (just ask gysewho). The S3X (if they still sell it) has an internally geared fixed hub.

Ok, sounds good - I might just grab a standard Kilo TT. What would be the first thing I should replace on it? I know that's a can of worms but - I mean performance wise.

Wheels?

You can't possibly shop for a used bike without knowing exactly what fits you. I am 6'1" with a 34" leg length (stocking feet, back to wall, book pressed upward to pubic bone, mark wall, measure up from floor), which makes my proportions in the standard range. I can fit a 58cm frame up to a 61cm frame, but must adjust stem reach and seat height accordingly. My top tube length plus stem reach length must equal approximately 68.5 cm for proper fit, although there can be some fudging depending on bar type and brake lever placement.

If you're 6' but have only 30" inseam, you would have a longer torso than average. You'd want to be very conscious about top tube length and stem reach to fit yourself. This might drive you to larger frames with shorter stems, but might not, depending on the frame geometry. Your real inseam measurement (from a bike fit perspective, not a pants rack perspective) may be longer than you realize.

Take some accurate measurements then begin looking again. Your local bike shop should permit you to ride a few bikes in your size, but it's best to be up front with them about your budget and what you intend to purchase. That way, they'll know that they're investing in you for future business, but not likely the sale of the bike that you test ride.

Phil G.


Please re-read everything Phil just said, then when you are done, read it again. Take his advice. Head to the local bike shop and see what size frame you would use.

As for 'performance upgrades' on the Kilo. Just get the bike and ride it. You will gain performance without changing a thing with a good amount of seat time at first. I will say however, that after riding the bike for a little bit, you'll probably want to change the gear ratio to fit your riding style. But that is something you can figure out after you first get the bike, then ride it around for a bit. You cannot possible think of performance upgrades if you do not have some seat time on the bike yet. You have to ride the bike, get used to it, do research on here regarding 'upgrades', then while riding start to think of areas on the bike you might want to improve that would increase performance. At least thats what i did. I rode my bike stock for about 3 months. First thing I changed out was my saddle and bars. I didnt like drops for street riding, so i switched to bullhorns because they were more comfortable. I also did not like my seat, so i got fitted for a seat and bought one. Both upgrades (Not big like new crankset or wheels) gained me lots of performance because I was more comfortable riding and could ride harder.

.Chris

I think you should get the TT Pro since you're already talking about replacing things. They come with Sugino RD-2 cranks, nicer wheelset, F/R brakes, etc. All you would have to change is the saddle, pedals/clips, and maybe the handlebar if you wanted.

The pedals and saddle that come on the TT are pretty bad. Especially the pedals.

Yeah haha. I remember I almost took a fall clipped in on campus and thought I was all good, but when i got back home I found out my foot bent the **** out of those pedals lol.

Please re-read everything Phil just said, then when you are done, read it again. Take his advice. Head to the local bike shop and see what size frame you would use.

As for 'performance upgrades' on the Kilo. Just get the bike and ride it. You will gain performance without changing a thing with a good amount of seat time at first. I will say however, that after riding the bike for a little bit, you'll probably want to change the gear ratio to fit your riding style. But that is something you can figure out after you first get the bike, then ride it around for a bit. You cannot possible think of performance upgrades if you do not have some seat time on the bike yet. You have to ride the bike, get used to it, do research on here regarding 'upgrades', then while riding start to think of areas on the bike you might want to improve that would increase performance. At least thats what i did. I rode my bike stock for about 3 months. First thing I changed out was my saddle and bars. I didnt like drops for street riding, so i switched to bullhorns because they were more comfortable. I also did not like my seat, so i got fitted for a seat and bought one. Both upgrades (Not big like new crankset or wheels) gained me lots of performance because I was more comfortable riding and could ride harder.

.Chris

This all sounds very reasonable to me. Thanks for the advice - I was just getting a little worried because I'm new to this stuff, and you see posts saying how bad stock components are on these lower-end bikes.

Random observation - the bullhorn style handlebars do look a bit more comfortable for all-around riding, but like you said - I'll just have to get some saddle time in and decide for myself what I want to change or upgrade.:thumb:

Question - Is there a resource(on this site or otherwise) where I can find a detailed lay out of a SS bike so I can familiarize myself with the names of all the different components? I.E. a picture of a SS with different parts labeled like the Cog, bottom bracket, crank, etc.

Also, I just measured my inseam wearing mesh shorts and it was 31.5''(very erotic), What size frame would suit me? I know I *should* go to the LBS and get fitted but I went there already and they are the pushiest sales staff I have ever encountered - and I work in sales. They basically harassed me the entire short time I was in there and I swore I would never give them any of my money. I am in the process of finding a better LBS but I would like to order a bike sooner rather than later. So bare with me.

Thanks again for answering my dumb questions, I promise to learn these things and answer other peoples' dumb questions on here down the road.:D

Yeah haha. I remember I almost took a fall clipped in on campus and thought I was all good, but when i got back home I found out my foot bent the **** out of those pedals lol.

Is confused.

"clipped in" ? Aren't the stock pedals just things you shove your average shoe in and pedal with? Or do they require you to wear those special shoes that clip into them?

Bare with me, the last bike I owned was a Mongoose BMX circa 1998 - and I'm pretty sure it just had plastic pedals, =)

No those are clipless pedals, when I said clipped in, I just meant my foot was secured into the toe clips and strapped. I should have said strapped in, but whatever lol.

No those are clipless pedals, when I said clipped in, I just meant my foot was secured into the toe clips and strapped. I should have said strapped in, but whatever lol.

OK! that's what I thought but I just wanted to make sure, lol. I've been scrolling through so many Steamrollers/Kilos/Pistas/etc. online in the past few days that its making my head spin since they all seem to have different pedals or no pedals at all depending on price and picture.:lol:

globe, but please give it some color. It looks like a ghost bike.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/kilott.htm


+1

Seriously! Wish I had someone to tell me to go to Bikes Direct 3 years ago. Instead I spent that money on a too small conversion with Bike Island wheels. Even the Hour/Messenger are really solid. But Yah get a Kilo. You'll thank us.

Bare with me
sup sqrl

This all sounds very reasonable to me. Thanks for the advice - I was just getting a little worried because I'm new to this stuff, and you see posts saying how bad stock components are on these lower-end bikes.

Random observation - the bullhorn style handlebars do look a bit more comfortable for all-around riding, but like you said - I'll just have to get some saddle time in and decide for myself what I want to change or upgrade.:thumb:

Question - Is there a resource(on this site or otherwise) where I can find a detailed lay out of a SS bike so I can familiarize myself with the names of all the different components? I.E. a picture of a SS with different parts labeled like the Cog, bottom bracket, crank, etc.

Also, I just measured my inseam wearing mesh shorts and it was 31.5''(very erotic), What size frame would suit me? I know I *should* go to the LBS and get fitted but I went there already and they are the pushiest sales staff I have ever encountered - and I work in sales. They basically harassed me the entire short time I was in there and I swore I would never give them any of my money. I am in the process of finding a better LBS but I would like to order a bike sooner rather than later. So bare with me.

Thanks again for answering my dumb questions, I promise to learn these things and answer other peoples' dumb questions on here down the road.:D

You need to find another bike shop. Tell them what you want and ask for their help, being very plain (but kind and humble) about your intentions. To learn, there are many, many books on bikes. Stop by your local full-service book shop and browse the sports section - you'll find some illustrated books. Most will not cover fixed gear/single speed bikes in any detail because these represent a niche market. Perhaps a book on track racing?

As for size, I would say that you definitely DO NOT want standover height to be your determining factor to begin selecting a comfortable size, due to your relatively longer torso. Are your arms longer, too? Based on a 6" height, I'd guess that you'd do better on a frame with a top tube between 58 and 59.5 cm, and a stem reach of about 10 or 11 cm to start. Much of this is bike geometry dependent, so you'll have to check the geometry charts on the models you're considering. This is ESPECIALLY vital if you choose to go mail order. With limited experience, you need someone to validate your size choice BEFORE you place the order. Find an experienced friend or advisor first.

Phil

+1

Seriously! Wish I had someone to tell me to go to Bikes Direct 3 years ago. Instead I spent that money on a too small conversion with Bike Island wheels. Even the Hour/Messenger are really solid. But Yah get a Kilo. You'll thank us.

Yeah, ''The Hour'' looks like such a great deal - but I'm not sure if it would be ideal for me since there isn't a flip-flop hub and I would think being able to start out single-speed as appose to full-on fixed gear might be a smarter option. At least it comes with a rear break - I guess ill have to think about it.




You need to find another bike shop. Tell them what you want and ask for their help, being very plain (but kind and humble) about your intentions. To learn, there are many, many books on bikes. Stop by your local full-service book shop and browse the sports section - you'll find some illustrated books. Most will not cover fixed gear/single speed bikes in any detail because these represent a niche market. Perhaps a book on track racing?

As for size, I would say that you definitely DO NOT want standover height to be your determining factor to begin selecting a comfortable size, due to your relatively longer torso. Are your arms longer, too? Based on a 6" height, I'd guess that you'd do better on a frame with a top tube between 58 and 59.5 cm, and a stem reach of about 10 or 11 cm to start. Much of this is bike geometry dependent, so you'll have to check the geometry charts on the models you're considering. This is ESPECIALLY vital if you choose to go mail order. With limited experience, you need someone to validate your size choice BEFORE you place the order. Find an experienced friend or advisor first.

Phil

Hmm, that's kind of surprising to me that there aren't any detailed charts or illustrations online. I guess I'll check out the local Barnes & Noble.

In regards to size, I will have to seek out another bike shop to get fitted then it seems. I'm in the Baltimore/DC area so I would think there are plenty of options.

Thanks.