Originally Posted by
TenSpeedV2
Precisely why a single speed or fixed gear would be ideal. Less things to break keeping the OP on the road. Simplicity can be a wonderful thing. We are often blinded by the next best and greatest thing. Sometimes simplicity is the best thing. If I was going carless, I would either do some sort of public transportation for groceries. Taxi or bus or whatever was available.
Can I ask what this constant insistence that fenders are mandatory? They are not mandatory. A bike can be ridden as a commuter without them.
Simplicity is nice, but it isn't exactly easy to break a derailleur, nor difficult to replace one. I've never seen someone break part of their drivetrain w/o it being caused by a crash. I know certain people really like SS, but it isn't for everyone. Me? I like gears, and I use them.
As for fenders, I didn't have any for a long time, but I do like them when it is wet out. Living in FL, I am sure the OP has plenty of wet. But you are correct in that they are not mandatory.