Picked up a single speed a couple years ago (steel frame, Redline 9 2 5) I try to ride it at least once a week on a 17 mile loop (not many hills) I love the simplicity of it. It won’t replace my geared bike, but I’m glad I bought it!

• I still feel that variable gears are only for people over forty-five. Isn't it better to triumph by the strength of your musclesthan by the artifice of a derailer? We are getting soft... As for me, give me a fixed gear! — French track cyclist and sportsjournalist Henri Desgrange, on his preference for single-speed, non-freewheel bicycles