Sunday, December 30, 2012

A Few Reminders When Riding A Fixie Bike

Fixie bike rider

Although fixie bikes are considered simple in terms of mechanism, many people still find it difficult to ride especially if they have been users of free-wheeling bicycles. This is one of the main factors that separate fixies and geared bikes as the former cannot be used in coasting and sloping rides. One needs to pedal constantly in order to move forward and it takes more power and strength if the roads are sloping.

Some recommend a fixie bike to those who are still learning how to bike since they will learn how to pedal all throughout their training. Challenge-seekers especially those who are into sports and muscle-building can benefit a lot from riding fixed gear bikes. These folks can take long distances while pedaling continuously to help develop leg muscles and strength. You can view here for fixie bikes and their features to understand more about them.

It is also important to wear proper riding gear such as the right shoes for cycling, a pair of cycling shorts or tights, and comfy/dry-fit shirt. Avoid wearing loose pants as the legs may be caught or trapped in the chain of your fixie bike. Use the toe clips whenever you are riding to secure your feet onto the pedals. You may also need some knee and elbow pads or a protective jacket for long-distance rides. And of course, you should never forget to wear a helmet each time you go out riding.
Fixie bike rider
The use of breaks is often a debate among fixie riders. While other riders may consider it unnecessary since it is possible to stop by locking up the rear wheel. This can be done by back pedaling to put the rear wheel into a halt. You shouldn't remove your feet from the pedals while balancing the pressure on the front and back pedals, enabling you to start and move forward easily again.

However, bike companies like Chappelli Cycles include breaks on their fixie bikes for maximum safety of the rider. You can even choose the size of bike based on your height to enable you to ride it effortlessly.  The selection of fixed gear bikes for sale is crucial to a bikers riding experience. The option to go for a fixie bike can be the best decision for some riders if they are just starting out or finding ways to challenge themselves. Check out Chappelli Cycles website to know more about fixed gear bikes.

Benefits Of Using Fixed Wheel Bikes

Chappelli -  Azul Fixie bike

The streets of today are not just for 4-wheeled vehicles, but also for motorcycles and bicycles. In many countries, they legitimize the use of bikes and have established policies for riders to adhere to. This is a good thing for many people who are conscious about the environment and their health at the same time.

With the wide array of brands and types of bikes, a newbie may become overwhelmed with the list of options. However, it is truly a no-brainer when choosing the right type of bike. If you are a beginner and would only ride on flat roads and even terrain, fixed wheel bikes are the best options. Since there is no need to shift speeds while riding your fixie, it is pretty easy to use especially in an urban setting. This bike is also considered low-maintenance compared to geared bikes with either internal or external hub gears. Although these gears are often considered as safety features, a rider without any proper knowledge of it may find these features useless or even hazardous. You may view here for fixie bikes and other helpful info if you are still in search of a simple bike that's fit for a newbie.

Chappelli - Nero fixie bike
For someone who likes to go on long rides, it is best to choose another type of bike, perhaps an 8-speed bike will be of much interest if you are a true-blue cycling fanatic. Unlike a fixed gear, these bikes are well-equipped for mountainous locations, various terrain and slopes, and coasting while on long rides. You cannot find these features on a fixie, but this simple bike is built to be ridden on even streets and roads within cities and urban communities. It can take you safely to your destination as long as you also practice safety habits such as wearing proper gear, helmet, shoes, and others that are applicable. You can check out Chappelli Cycles for more info on fixed gear bicycles and more.

Knowing the streets you travel on is essential for safely getting to your chosen location. It takes more than just knowing how to pedal a bike or using a proper bike for a specific purpose. But for a beginner who'd like to master the city streets and suburbs, a fixie will help you accomplish all these with fewer hassles on maintenance and repairs. If you know a little about keeping your bike clean and running 100% all the time, then, you and your fixie bike will surely hit the roads for a long time.

Enjoying the ride is very important every time you hit the roads. Just always remember the main purpose a fixed gear bike and you'll know very well why you chose it in the first place. Upgrading your ride can be done once you have built confidence and strength on even terrain, and soon you'll be riding a multi-gear bike with the same ease.

Fixie Bikes vs. Internal Hub Bikes - Which One's For You?

Chappelli fixie bike

There's so much to say about getting the right type of bicycle for anyone who wants to buy one either for leisure or for sport. In today's many cities and urban communities, biking has become a way of life for several people due to many factors and personal reasons.

Some people are focused mainly on getting some serious exercise, so a bike is a perfect tool to help them sweat some fats out. For muscle-building folks, biking is another method of building up leg muscles and strength as they ride onto various terrains and distances. For many bikers who live in the city, getting a bike is a solution to traffic problems as it is easier to maneuver and take short-cuts using one.

However, getting a bicycle can be a challenge for some people who have not yet decided on what type to go for. There are two types of bikes you can choose from - the fixed gear and the multi-gear or multi-speed bikes. Fixed gear bikes are also referred to as fixies since they don't have any gear at all. The speed you'll get will depend on your pedalling power during the ride. You may check out Chappelli fixie bike shop to see a selection of fixed gear bikes and more. On the other hand, internal gear hub bikes are made for coasting and speed shifting isn't a problem. Gear bikes, in general, are made for various terrains, so the need for gear shift is essential as you need more speed for certain terrain.

Chappelli internal hub bike_3-speed classic

 Slopping roads and elevated areas can be very difficult for fixie bikes and their riders as well. You will need to pedal powerfully to be able to surpass the elevation. Same goes with traveling long distances since you will need to pedal continuously if you wish to reach your destination faster.

While it is easier to troubleshoot fixie bikes, internal gear hub bikes are the opposite. If you don't have the know-how, an experienced bike repairman is the right person to go to when problems arise. However, you will not always encounter problems with a geared bike, especially with an internal gear hub as the mechanisms are enclosed and protected from various elements.

For newbie bikers, it is advisable to use fixies instead of any hub-type or multi-speed bike. Fixie bike shops have been sought-after in the recent years due to the increasing interest in bikes, in general. This is primarily due to the fact that many people are concerned of their health and of the environment. Fixed gear bikes Melbourne is one example of an evolving trend involving people's consciousness may it be towards their health, fitness, or premises. You may view here for fixed gear bikes Melbourne and others. On the other hand, internal hub bicycles are racing equally in popularity and usability especially among the sporty people. Mountain bikers and long-ride cyclists love the speed and terrain capabilities of internal hear hub bikes. The possibilities of conquering challenging terrain and long distances are definitely endless when you are riding a multi-gear bike.

The level of expertise of a rider is essential in choosing the right bike to ride on. Both have their own pros and cons when it comes to safety, performance, and functionality. So, if it is your first time to ride, a single-speed or fixed-gear bike is the best option for you. For expert bikers, both can be beneficial depending on the type of road and terrain you're planning to take on. You can check Chappelli Cycles for the best selection of both fixie and internal gear hub bicycles.