Hey, I'm new here and new to fixed gear riding as well. I found a old maruishi touring bike in the trash and just recently converted it to fixed gear. I pretty much was able to do the conversion for free. I volunteered for a bicycle program where you volunteer your time and they help you convert/fix you bike for free. Anyways to the point, I'm looking to find a better gear ratio than the one I have. My city is mostly flat with some slightly hilly areas. Right now I've got a 52t chainring and a 20t cog. I love this ratio as I'm able to get up my speed relatively quick but the only dislike I have is that I'm not able to back pedal to slow down very well let alone skid. I do have a front brake by the way. What is a good gear ratio that would be similar to my current one but will let me skid to slow my speed? I've been reading up on it and I tend to see a lot of 48t/17t or 47t/18t. Any suggestions?

Thanks
Jay.