Originally Posted by
BluesDawg
I don't buy that oft repeated line. Both are fun. Both are simpler and lighter than a multiple geared bike with derailleurs. Both force you to adjust your riding style and thinking to the fact that you have no gears. The fixed gear adds another dimension by not allowing coasting.
Almost right. The fixed gear adds another dimension by allowing you to control your speed using your legs. That's more subtle and effective than skids and more global than just stopping. Once you learn the knack, you will find yourself having more control over your speed than if you have to reach for brakes.
The not coasting bit is just ... another something. To be honest, you don't really miss it until you climb back on a bike with a freewheel and barrel into an intersection too quickly because 'the bike's broken'.
Richard