I rode a fixed gear in Iowa City in the early 80's (all year round, I was carless in college). I did have to add a frt brake, riding down Market towards IMU was too much when I had a Pagliai's pizza in one hand. You're young, it'll make you a better rider. I used to ride out Mormen Trek Road to BlackHawk Ave in the spring, that ride on a fixed gear will make you fit, straight into the wind with rollers!