Ever look at a bike with just one gear and wonder, “How do they climb hills with that?” It seems crazy simple, right? But choosing the perfect Single Speed bike is anything but easy. There are so many styles, from sleek fixed gears to versatile freewheels. You worry about struggling on tough climbs or spinning out on fast downhills. It’s tough to know which one fits your city rides or weekend adventures best.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down everything you need to know about Single Speed bikes. You will learn the real benefits of keeping things simple and how to pick the exact setup that matches your riding style. Stop guessing and start riding with confidence! Let’s dive into the world of simplicity and discover your ideal Single Speed machine.
Top Single Speed Recommendations
- 【Single Speed Chain】- Package includes 1 set single speed bike chain, whose size is 1/2×1/8 inch, the bike chain has 114 links, you can adjust length according to the length of your bike chain.
- 【Double X Bridge Design】- Our bike chain adopts double X bridge design, which improves the tensile, torsional strength of the chain and variable speed fluency.
- 【Special Forging Steel】- Single speed bike chain is made of special forging steel which is repeated forged and strict controlled of materials to ensure the strength. Full plating sliver is anti-rust, anti-corrosion, wear-resistant, high cost performance and durable for use.
- 【Easy to Install】- The bike chain is easy to install, you can determine the length of your chain according to the original chain, cut out the length you want with a chain cutter, and install the chain with a chain hook. NOTE: chain cutter and hook is not included.
- 【Wide Application】- Bike chain is suitable for single speed mountain bike, road bike and other bikes, and it is suitable for foldable bikes, BMX, etc.
- The KMC K1 chain is designed for heavy-duty BMX freestyle and track bikes
- Compatible with all Single speed internal gear BMX Track and Fixed gear
- Special Dynamic Configured Plates
- OS outer and tall inner plates which provides the chain with unbeatable tensile strength and eliminates stretching and chain drop
- Perfect chain for high load sports like BMX or Track cycling where you're putting high amounts of pressure on the drivetrain.Mushroomed Reinforced Riveting increases tensile strength.100 Links.1/2" X 1/8" - Pin Length 9 5 mm.Nickel Plated/Black Silver.Weight 411 grams
- Compatible with Shimano or Sram 8 to 11 speed HG cassette body, mountain and road bike.
- Compatible with the chain width from 1/2" ×3/32" to 1/2" ×11/128". (6 speed to 11 speed chains).
- Package Includes: 1pcs 16T cassette, 1pcs 10mm spacer, 2pcs 5mm spacer, 1pcs 3.7mm spacer, 1pcs 2mm spacer, 1pcs lock ring.
- Cassette material: high-resistant stainless steel. Spacers and lock ring material: 6061 aluminum alloy. Total weight: 75.3g.
- REPLACEMENT CHAIN: Fix up and replace worn and damaged chains with a replacement 1/2" x 1/8" Schwinn Bike Chain. Made to work with a variety of non-derailleur bikes, including BMX, cruisers and more.
- SMOOTHER RIDING: Replacement chain fits most adult single speed bikes, keeping your ride smooth and effective on mountain trails and road rides alike.
- HEAVY DUTY CHAIN: This 1/2" x 1/8" chain features 112 links and a heavy-duty build for lasting strength. An anti-drop design keeps your ride smooth, secure, and ready for the long haul.
- EASY REPLACEMENT: Designed for simple replacement, this chain works with the Schwinn Chain Tool and other tools for DIY repairs.
- TRUSTED SCHWINN QUALITY: Schwinn is the original American bike brand. We’ve spent over 130 years building the bicycle industry into what it is today, and we’re not done yet. Each product is designed in Madison, WI.
- 9mm Thick Base: The wider 9mm base evenly distributes stress across the freehub, preventing damage under heavy loads. These aluminum single-speed cogs feature extra-tall teeth for reliable chain retention, even with chain tensioners.
- Premium Single Speed Cog: Designed with a unique tooth shape, narrow-wide profile, and perfect roundness, these sprockets are built to last longer than other aluminum counterparts.
- One-Piece 7075 High-Quality Aluminum Alloy: Unlike most split designs on the market, our one-piece flywheel offers superior strength and lighter weight, weighing only 66g.
- Freehub and Chain Compatibility: Compatible with Shimano Hyperglide style freehub body splines (multi-speed or single-speed). Not compatible with Shimano Microspline or SRAM XD freehub bodies. Works with all chains from 7 to 12 speeds.
- Versatile Spacers Included: The set includes 2pcs 5mm spacers, 1pcs 7mm spacer, and 1pcs 12mm spacer, providing flexibility for different setups.
- 【Package Includes】- The kit includes 1 set single speed chain, 1pcs bike link plier with hook, 1pcs chain breaker and 6 pairs of bicycle chain buckle, they are efficient, accurate matching and labor-saving.
- 【High-quality Material】- Our bike chains are made of special forging steel which is repeated forged and strict controlled of materials to ensure the strength. The are full plating silver to anti-rust, high cost performance, anti-corrosion, wear-resistant and durable.
- 【Double × Bridge Design】- Double X bridge design of the bike chain kit improves the tensile, torsional strength of the chain and have variable speed fluency improvement.
- 【Easy to Install】- The bike chain is easy to install, you can determine the length of your chain according to the original chain, cut out the length you want with a chain cutter, and install the chain with a chain hook.
- 【Wide Application】- The bike chain kit is suitable for all brands of single speed bikes, you can use it as a replacement chain while cycling.
- Compatible with Shimano or Sram 8 to 11 speed HG cassette body, mountain and road bike.
- Compatible with the chain width from 1/2" ×3/32" to 1/2" ×11/128". (6 speed to 11 speed chains).
- Package Includes: 1pcs 17T cassette, 1pcs 10mm spacer, 2pcs 5mm spacer, 1pcs 3.7mm spacer, 1pcs 2mm spacer, 1pcs lock ring.
- Cassette material: high-resistant stainless steel. Spacers and lock ring material: 6061 aluminum alloy. Total weight: 78.6g.
- 9mm Thick Base: The wider 9mm base evenly distributes stress across the freehub, preventing damage under heavy loads. These aluminum single-speed cogs feature extra-tall teeth for reliable chain retention, even with chain tensioners.
- Premium Single Speed Cog: Designed with a unique tooth shape, narrow-wide profile, and perfect roundness, these sprockets are built to last longer than other aluminum counterparts.
- One-Piece 7075 High-Quality Aluminum Alloy: Unlike most split designs on the market, our one-piece flywheel offers superior strength and lighter weight, weighing only 66g.
- Freehub and Chain Compatibility: Compatible with Shimano Hyperglide style freehub body splines (multi-speed or single-speed). Not compatible with Shimano Microspline or SRAM XD freehub bodies. Works with all chains from 7 to 12 speeds.
- Versatile Spacers Included: The set includes 2pcs 5mm spacers, 1pcs 7mm spacer, and 1pcs 12mm spacer, providing flexibility for different setups.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your First Single Speed Bike
Thinking about buying a single-speed bike? That’s great! These bikes are simple, fun, and require less maintenance than bikes with gears. This guide will help you choose the perfect one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a single speed, focus on these main parts. They make a big difference in how the bike rides.
Frame Material
The frame is the bike’s backbone. You will usually see three main materials:
- Steel: Steel frames are strong and offer a smooth, comfortable ride. They are often heavier but very durable. Good quality steel lasts a long time.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is much lighter than steel. This makes climbing small hills easier and speeds up acceleration. Aluminum bikes can sometimes feel a bit stiffer.
- Chromoly (A type of Steel): This is a high-quality steel. It balances the strength of steel with a lighter weight. It is often found on higher-end models.
Gearing Ratio
Since there are no gears, the one gear ratio matters a lot. This is the size of the front chainring compared to the rear cog (e.g., 46/16).
- Lower Ratio (e.g., 42/17): Easier to pedal, great for hills or starting and stopping often in the city.
- Higher Ratio (e.g., 48/16): Harder to start, but lets you go much faster once you are moving. Best for flat terrain.
Brakes
Most single speeds come with front and rear brakes. Always check that the brakes feel strong and responsive. Coaster brakes (pedaling backward to stop) are sometimes included, but caliper or V-brakes offer better stopping power.
Important Components and Materials
Good quality parts make the bike last longer and ride smoother.
Wheels and Tires
Look for double-walled rims. These rims are stronger and resist bending when you hit a pothole. Tires should match where you ride. Skinny tires are fast on pavement. Wider, slightly knobbier tires handle rough city streets better.
Drivetrain
The chain and sprockets (the front and back teeth) should be made of quality metal. A strong, rust-resistant chain is important, especially if you ride in the rain. Sealed bottom brackets are a major plus; they keep dirt and water out of the moving parts, meaning fewer repairs.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a single speed excellent or just okay?
Quality Boosters
A bike feels higher quality when it has components from well-known brands (like Shimano or similar). Welds on the frame should be smooth and clean. Lighter weight generally means better components were used.
Quality Reducers
Cheap, heavy steel frames are often found on the lowest-priced models. If the bike feels very heavy, the parts might be low-grade. Also, bikes that only have a coaster brake often signal a budget build.
User Experience and Use Cases
Single speeds are loved for their simplicity. They are perfect for certain types of riders and environments.
City Commuting
These bikes shine in the city. They are quiet, easy to lock up (less to worry about breaking), and look very sleek. They are ideal for short to medium commutes on mostly flat ground.
Fitness and Fun
Riding a single speed forces you to learn how to manage your speed and momentum. It is a fantastic workout. They are great for casual weekend rides where you just want to enjoy the simplicity of cycling.
Maintenance
This is the biggest win! With no derailleurs or shifters, cleaning and maintenance time drops dramatically. You mostly just need to keep the chain lubed and the tires inflated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Single Speed Bikes
Q: Do I need a special type of shoe to ride a single speed?
A: No. Most single speeds come with standard flat pedals. You can wear regular sneakers. Some serious riders use clipless pedals, but it is not necessary when starting out.
Q: Can I ride a single speed up hills?
A: Yes, you can! It is harder than on a geared bike. You must use your body weight and momentum. A lower gear ratio helps make the climb less exhausting.
Q: What is “fixie” and how is it different from a single speed?
A: A true “fixie” (fixed gear) bike has no freewheel. If the wheels are turning, the pedals are turning. A single speed bike has a freewheel, meaning you can coast (stop pedaling) like a normal bike.
Q: How often should I clean my single speed?
A: Because the chain is always exposed, check it once a week. A quick wipe-down and oiling the chain every few weeks keeps it running smoothly.
Q: Are single speeds safe in traffic?
A: They are generally safe, but you must be aware of your stopping distance. Always ensure your brakes are in top shape. Since you cannot instantly shift to an easier gear for a sudden stop, good brakes are crucial.
Q: How much should I expect to spend?
A: Entry-level, reliable single speeds usually start around $350 to $500. Better quality bikes with lighter frames and nicer components start closer to $600 and go up from there.
Q: Can I add gears to a single speed bike later?
A: It is very difficult and often not worth the cost. Single speed frames are designed without the necessary mounting points for derailleurs or extra shifters. You usually need to buy a geared bike if you know you want gears.
Q: What is the best way to secure a single speed bike?
A: Since they are often lighter and simpler, they can be targets for theft. Use a strong U-lock. Always lock the frame to a secure object, preferably locking both wheels as well.
Q: Do single speeds require special tools for maintenance?
A: For basic tasks like adjusting brakes or oiling the chain, no. For major tasks like replacing the bottom bracket, you will need specific bike tools, just like any other bicycle.
Q: Will I get bored without gears?
A: Many riders find the opposite! The focus shifts from shifting gears to mastering speed control and enjoying the direct connection to the road. Most people find them very engaging.