Originally Posted by IIIXziuR Pabst Blue Ribbon on the workbench of a Fixed Gear Bike shop... you know what that means.

Originally Posted by Taniguchi_Is_#1 buy a new seat. it's like, $40 for a half decent, brand new seat.

As with so many of life's more worthy pursuits, one must strip away modern conveniences to come face-to-face with the fundamentals. So it is with bicycle pedaling. Modern bike transmissions, with their multitude of gear choices, freewheels, and rapid shifting can be an impediment to learning to pedal smoothly. Smooth pedaling is the core of efficient cycling and every rider strives to improve his style throughout an entire career of riding.
How do you learn to pedal smoothly? Traditionally, technique was passed to each succeeding generation through a combination of fixed gear riding and the example of more experienced pedalers. Truly expert, classical pedalers are rare these days. There are too few to lead rides on which beginners can absorb the finesse and elegance of a smooth, balanced pedal stroke.
But no fear! Fixed gear riding can a help any rider develop his pedaling. It is simple and cheap. Many professionals put in important fixed gear miles at the beginning of each season. The sooner you start a fixed gear practice, the better.
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What's to Gain?
Take a ride and notice how different your bike feels! Keep your spin moderate and don't go a great distance. Observe how riding without coasting is so much more of a workout. This will enable you to get exercise in a shorter time.
Avoid big hills to start. With some practice you will learn how to lug a fixed gear effectively. More body english, a rounder pedal force, and persuasive rhythm are all elements to climbing without muscle strain.
As your confidence grows you will be acquiring finesse without any concentration. Your legs are recalibrating and learning to pedal circles not just lumpy down strokes. When the bike is going too slowly and your rpm's are low you will learn how to exert force through all 360 degrees of the pedal path. Otherwise the down stroke would have to be excessive and unfriendly to your knees. When the bike is going too briskly for your taste you will learn how to "float" around the pedals so your butt doesn't bounce all over the saddle.
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Float is the Goal
"Float" is the Zen-like state of soft pedalling which a distinguishes a true master. On the road, few riders have it. Most track riders acquire it through fixed gear pedalling. It is the primary means to avoid injury and sustain impressive effort. It is the tool heart throbs like Fausto Coppi and Jacques Anquetil used to captivate their eras. A truly smooth pedal stroke is a thing of great beauty as much as Edwin Moses on the high hurdles or Eric Heiden on skates. Riding fixed gear is your surest way to develop that talent and have great fun to boot.
Now, back to the 90's

Fully half of the fun is switching back to your regular set up. You'll notice a few very desirable changes:

Originally Posted by IHasLongTorso Ok cool. I was just cuious because I noticed it somewhere an it looked decent and its uber cheap. I figured. Btw anyone know where I can get some decent arms in 155 or 165 length?

Originally Posted by Taniguchi_Is_#1 so someone just stole my bike earlier tonight. surprisingly, i'm not too pissed about it, but rather, i'm pretty amused. too many fucking peasants in philly.

Originally Posted by DUFFM4N any Socal guys wanna hit this up? myself and a few buddies will be riding...let me know

Originally Posted by LB.Motoring I'd roll with you, I dont have my fixed done yet what do you think? Heres better info on it Orange 20 Bikes» Cranksgiving Season Is Here Again!

Originally Posted by Soooshi I'd be so down to do it, but my endurance is shit.