Looking to get a commuter that I can ride 15 mins to campus/ around town as I really don't want to use my expensive Domane for this. l've never had a fixed gear before and I really like that this has a flip flop hub as well. Is this specialized Langster a good option for what I'm looking for? Would probably be riding it no more than 10 miles at a time. Would love some input!
by CurlyCrimps
7 Comments
Yes, I have one. It’s great!
I would only recommend a single speed if you are fit and the distance is very flat. Even a few overpasses or tunnels can be tough unless you choose a very low gear ratio. Other than that, the simplicity is lovely, with good tyres and tubes this will be a dependable and easily maintained bike. Fenders are recommended for rain commuting.
Yeah. SS is perfect for commuting.
Hopefully not big hills in your commute
As long as it’s reasonably flat terrain a bike like this will make a really fun commuter bike. There’s “better” commuters that are setup for racks and fenders, they might be more comfortable. But light fast single speed is just good simple fun to ride. It will make you want to ride, to push harder, you’ll find yourself racing cars across town. I do suggest throwing some sort of fenders on any commuter bike, even a puddle can ruin your day without them. They make fenders for bikes without fender mounts, that’s not a problem.
My housemate rode that single speed ten miles a day across London for a decade. That bike is a beast and it’s beautiful looking to boot. Re: single speed riding – you get used to it.
Also I believe it’s quite light which makes accustoming to using your calves for hills instead of gears an easy transition.
Also, enjoy your new calves.
Fixed gear is rough but can be fun imo, single speed is cool on a distant like that. The price is right for getting into commuting.
If you have lots to carry around while commuting make sure you have the right bag for it, or even better bags you can attach to the bike as it will be hard on your back over time