Originally Posted by
2wheels2freedom
I ask because the thing that attracted me to fixed gear so much was the efficiency, you're getting power throughout the entire stroke, as apposed to just on the downstroke.
Fixed gear will be marginally more efficient as a result of not having power losses in the derailleur pulleys and by letting the bike be a little lighter. But there's nothing magic about fixed that lets you apply power through more of the crank cycle.
But I agree that riding fixed without foot retention is not recommended. The chance of having a crash as a result of losing contact with a pedal is greater on a fixed gear bike.