Track bikes

[which doctor]

I don't get them. Sure they're hip 'n all but I don't see what's so bad about gears and brakes :confused:

[Invincible Summer]

Using a track bike for actual racing makes a lot of sense - you're trying to basically go really fast in a circle so you don't want brakes or the weight of a derailleur or anything like that.

Plus, having a fixed gear means that it's a more efficient way of pedalling.

However, I don't see why anyone would want a fixed gear for city riding - singlespeed is fine since you can coast and have brakes (which are essential for city riding... lots of drivers are fucking idiots), but fixed gear seems to be dangerous in a city setting.

Also, having no derailleur and stuff makes it a lot less hassle free.

They are really sexy though:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1111/580615093_26173957f6.jpg

http://velospace.org/files/BIKE.jpg

[bcbm]

I've never understood the attraction either, especially after riding one. I ride singlespeed, but that was mostly because my gears rusted up and didn't work so I just removed them. Just bought a new wheel and single speed hub today, actually (cuz my hub broke) and it cost more than my bike did originally... nice. Thinking about taking off my back break too.