Just recently got into fixed gear and got myself a bike off eBay. Most bolts are pretty rusty but not seized. Just swapped the bullhorns it had for some drop bars. I know I should get some foot retention but what do you guys recommend I do next?
by Technical_Variety_69
14 Comments
Ride that motherfucker!!!
you said next, not what you know – get foot retention…
Just ride it for a few months. That’s the only way that you’ll know what you do or don’t like about it, whether it’s fit, function or aesthetics. After you’ve owned it for a while you’ll have a better idea of what to change.
get straps
Foot retention, compact road drops?
When I first started riding fixed, I first watched premium rush then I started with bullhorns and from there was advised to switch to a riser bar, wedged bar or even drop bars. Tried drop bars and hated it, got risers and absolutely 100% makes it a more enjoyable riding experience. I also think risers look better.
Ride the shit out of that thing
loosen ur chain (move wheel forward) until ur cranks are able to knock back and forth
Foot retention and time in the saddle! The best way to get faster than any new parts will ever make you is free, ride like crazy!
Pedals and straps or cage
Either get new hardware or polish the ones u got with a dremel
Foot retention…FOOT RETENTION!!
Glad to see that brake, cool kids stay out of the hospital.
In that spirit: Get those straps ASAP – be super careful around hills and watch your speed until you have foot retention, losing your pedals as a beginner can be really sketchy. You might be able to calmly apply the brake until your cranks slow down enough to find your footing, but if your pedals slam into your legs and you freak out you could eat pavement in a really bad way.
The track drops look great, but be warned they are low-key the worst handlebars, especially for a beginner. Actual track riders use them to get into a super aerodynamic position, but you aren’t as flexible as they are, your bike fit isn’t dialed in by an expert, and you aren’t racing so the aero gains aren’t important. These will force you to ride in a really uncomfortable position, and won’t even make you faster in the process – your body produces more power when properly supported in a more ergonomic position, and bad positions fatigue you faster so you can’t train for as long – the more comfortable you make your bike, the better you’ll be at riding it.
That’s really the whole game as a beginner: make the bike safe, dial in the fit, and put in the miles.
Sweet rig! What brake lever is that?