I first started riding one as a training tool. Geomorphology dictates hills here, so the one gear makes legs stronger. I still take my standard MTB for rides where I just want to go fast, but the SS rides make me faster. They are so simple and can be ridden in harsh conditions. Now one of my favorite things is the night ride. The trail here begins with ~1.5 mile climb. This is great because I can pass the $2000+ bike riding HID whielding guys and say great night while they can't catch their breath as they turn up their nose at my sub $400 SS and 10w light.