Originally Posted by pedex
^^ what about the loading on the knees when pulling up on the pedals while seated and pedaling a freewheel bike? its no different than riding a fixed, you just tend to do it more often on a fixed gear
I'm not saying that inherently a switch from push to pull is going to explode your face, I was just trying to say that the potentially hazardous loading from pedal-braking a fixed drivetrain comes from the drastic change in direction/loading. Not so much the resistance one you're already engaged in the act of slowing down.
I don't really see the point to this discussion however, since the people who ride brakeless understand the risks, rules and rewards of it and make that choice consciously (I hope). They are adults (I hope) and can handle the repercussions (I hope!).