my neighbor has had one for a long time with no problems, but he rides it as a singlespeed, NOT fixed. the frame is a rebadged fuji track, and its cheap because it comes with cheaper components. the price on ebay is almost $150-200 cheaper than a stock pista, fuji track, langster, or rush hour. you can use that $ saved to buy a new rear wheel or hub, which is what often goes out first. if you want better quality off-the-shelf components, get an IRO. regardless, you WILL end up getting upgrade-itis. . . who doesn't??