Gear math does get confusing.
This bike is 46x17 which I have seen is a pretty common combo.
The whole "Skid Patches" thing is interesting as well.
The 17T cog seems to be good in that respect:
Urban Velo #9 - Fixed Gear Skid Marks
46x17 is 72.4 inches and 17 skid patches
46x18 is 68.4 inches and 9 skid patches
46x19 would give me 64.8 inches and 19 skid patches?
I am using a front brake but I like the idea that my tire wear could be more even.
Nashville definitely has hills but it isn't San Francisco.
After I get my pedal straps and build up my legs a bit I will have an opinion.
This bike already has way more usable torque than my boat anchor 3 speed had in 1st gear.