I have nearly bought new bikes from bikesdirect a couple times just to try out a fixed gear bike. Sanity kept me from pulling the trigger. I have a Surly Cross Check, and wondering if just buying a wheel and chain would be a good way to try out the fixed gear experience. I would still be carrying around the shifting components, but figure it ought to be close enough to see if I really would like to own one of these machines.

Any recommendations on a wheel for the conversion? I figure I would just get the same type chain I am running now and shorten it to the appropriate length, but if this is now wise chime in here also.

Thanks!!