Originally Posted by
JohnDThompson
Skid stopping, by its very nature, is less efficient than a caliper brake on the front wheel, and by definition involves a degree of loss of control. If you're riding a fixed gear to "look cool" you may find it appropriate, if not adequate. But a front caliper brake is highly advisable. There's no law requiring you to use the caliper if you're inclinded to the "coolness" of a skid stop, but having it available may save you from serious injury or death at some point.
FG riding on the road with MVs and peds is hairy at best. I have decided to run a front brake on my fixie if only to keep the word "moron" out of my epitaph. Those intrepid young cyclists who run brakeless have more years to live down their bad decisions and they heal faster than we older riders. Still, I fear for their safety. I'll just continue to endure the stigma of a front brake. But alas, my whip doesn't have that minimalist coolness.