Hey guys, I'm kind of new to fixed gear bikes, but they really interest me. I've been researching about them for about two weeks or so. I won't really commute that much, I kind of just want it for casual riding and maybe to learn some tricks. Some of you might think I'm a hipster, but I'm not, I'm not doing this to be "in", I'm doing it because I want to. Before I buy a bike though, I want to ask you experts a few questions. If you think I'm just in this to be "in", don't let it get in the way of you giving me good answers.


Can anyone find me a bike that would be good for free styling? I'm going to ride around here and there, not very far. I will try to learn some tricks like barspins and nose pivots.

I'm around a size 52 CM frame, would I be able to ride a 50-54 CM frame?

Would have like to help you out, but the posting has already been taken down.

John

If you have to keep reassurung yourself that you're not a hipster, you probably are.

Start with Bikes Direct or your local shop and go from there.

Bikes Direct is your best option for getting amazingly good deals on frames, start there. Windsor, Mercier, Kilo, etc... Good frames to start with.

Buy the Mercier Kilo TT, (it comes with brakes at the moment, which is a plus), put some decent toe clips on it, call it a day.

There's a reason just about everyone owns this bike. It's $349 well spent.

If you're doing tricks, get a good set of platforms, clips and straps. Otherwise a good set of clipless pedals such as SPD (SL)'s, eggbeater's, speedplay's, keo's and those will do wonders. But I'm guessing you're more into the tricks than riding. Check bikesdirect.com for some cheap entry level fixed gears.

Sorry guys, but I can't buy online.

https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/bik/1521791080.html

https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/bik/1521868729.html

Would any of these be fine? I can get the guy to switch out the tires and whatnot.

I think I will try out the bike shop, otherwise, I'll have to resort to craigslist.

They are trash. Be patient, you may find a 900 bike for 300 on craigslist. Dont rush to buy. Do some research.

Just curious, would it be costly to powercoat a frame?

That's exactly what I said when I started riding FG on the street in the early 90's. But I was stereotyped even back then but remained strong all these years of riding the FG.

Actually, I WILL be able to buy online.

https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/bik/1521868729.html


So this bike is a no no?

No on all of those craigslist bikes haha... If you can buy online, I guarantee you'll be way happier with a bike from BikesDirect. Like I said, $800 bikes being sold 90% pre-built for avg. of $300... Thats your best deal friend.

Looks like an old entry-level 10-speed frame form the 70s with a fresh powdercoat job. Still has the original cottered crank too, by the looks of it. It wouldn't surprise me to learn that it was a French frame (that sure looks like a French crank) with hard-to-source-these-days French thread bottom bracket and fork. Not much upgrade potential there, if that's what you're thinking.

Those are $100 bikes, at best. And compared to even an entry-level Bikesdirect bike, certainly not worth their asking price.

I'm looking at the bikedirect bikes, I like them, but I really want flat handlebars.

Like this one? You can always swap bars later too. I'm on my second set of bullhorns. They're cheap.

Would it be hard to swap the bars and keep the brakes? I'm not exactly an expert at this stuff as you can see.

https://cgi.ebay.com/ROAD-BICYCLE-TRA...ht_4307wt_1169


Would this be ok?

haha yes these bikes are all built especially FOR swapping (trendy kids and **** doin their color schemes...)

EASILY swap out any part of the bike fool!

It sounds like someone is doing anything to jump on the trend. Talk to your local bike shop. You sound like a fool, Vince.
Read some ****ing stickied topics.

that bike on ebay looks really strange... the top tube looks like its a mile long. I would say go with bikesdirect.com. handlebars are super easy to switch out. brake levers are cheap. you will learn very quickly how simple it is to customize, and you will find out what fits you best.

LOL at how the "fixie bandwagon" effects peoples judgment on buying bikes.

Sure, it would be OK. I think that's the same folks that sell the deep v wheelset that I have. But you'll probably get a better selection and better spec from Bikesdirect. And regardless of what they post here, there's no shame in buying a bike or parts just for a certain "look". Don't let anyone kid you into thinking that a bike is merely a tool.