Originally Posted by HandsomeRyan

If you've never tried it, no one will be able to explain it to you in words. There is a certain "one-ness" with the bike [often referred to as the "Zen of Fixed Gear"] since you control both the acceleration and braking with your legs the bike feels like a prosthesis or an extension of your body much more than a traditional freewheeling bicycle. They are also great fitness training tools. You have no idea how much you coast until you hop on a bike where you can't anymore. A few weeks riding fixed and you'll have legs like tree trunks!

As I said before- I think all cyclists should at least try riding a fixed gear bike sometime. I know it won't be everyone's cup-of-tea but I think the association with urban youth riding brakeless track bikes like maniacs on the streets have tarnished the reputation of a very fun type of cycling that is done by a diverse group of people.

A few other benefits:
• FG bikes are inexpensive since they don't have shifters, derailleurs, and cassettes (the most expensive components of traditional bikes).
• FG bikes are simple to build and maintain, other than chain oil and tension and some air in the tires there is almost nothing to tweak or adjust on a regular basis.
• FG bikes are incredible training tools for building muscle and endurance. Lance rides one!
• FG bikes (especially "track geometry" frames) offer a much more "exciting" ride becasue you really feel the direct power transfer. They make "the same old ride" that grew boring on a traditional bike seem new and fun again. [At least this was my experience with them]