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i really don't see the point, why a fixed bike is nothing for a beginner? it doesn't matter on what you start when you are not used to ANYTHING
I fully support the fixed bike suggestion from the point of view, that you will start to ride different and in a more responsible/foresighted/"surroundings including point of view" way. And it is just a different way of biking, like telemarking is a different way of skiing. Both things work on similar platforms and get you to another plays faster than walking. But it is not the same.
Somehow the guitar suggestion "play before buy" fits for the bike too. Get to a shop and try something some stuff out. I have 9 ( ) different bikes and they are really not exchangeable - each one is somehow unique with its riding behaviour...

I just finished my couple months of working in a bike shop and now can tune up a bike to a minty fresh ride. I even had some experience restoring bikes and I just rebuilt my bike with upgraded components. I would recommend a bike from the 70's like a 3 speed raleigh or schwinn. They are heavy tanks but the gears will help you climb those hills plus they are made out of steel so they will last forever. They are easy to maintain, too. Everything was built to last back then. The modern bikes area always the ones with the most problems. Find a used bike than find a laid back shop where they dont yell at you for not knowing anything and get it fixxxxxxed up and you'll be good to go.

I personally ride fixxxxed because I feel so connected to the road. The movement of my legs are the movements of the back wheel. It can be a very spiritual experience. Plus I am sooooo out flying down hills and zipping through cars. Just be careful because you cant stop on a dime but you can stop efficiently. Your legs get really brolic too from all the ascents. No need to worry about shifting just bike. It is so simple! but thats just my thoughts.

jwar wrote:I have a REALLY big truck and I'll run all of you bike riding hippies over. Just sayin.

Oh, we've got somethin' for trucks.

Woah! Lots of great info.

Ok, so I clicked through the site that Greyscales posted, and using Chankgeez' advice... this is the sorta thing I'm probably look for, right?

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/oxford.htm

Not that bike, necessarily, but the general form, features... and hopefully price because I can totally afford that.

I'd kinda rather just buy something than find something old and have it fixed up... unless I could do that pretty cheap? I get that it'd likely be more reliable, but my trips are like 5 miles max generally.

That style handles scares the shit out of me

Psyre wrote:That style handles scares the shit out of me

WTF are you talking about?

Yeah, McSpunkle, I think you're on the right track.

You should still try to ride as many bikes as possible to see what's most comfortable for you.

If you order something online, make sure you order the correct size. (Actually, make sure you get the correct size regardless.)

Chankgeez wrote:

You should still try to ride as many bikes as possible to see what's most comfortable for you.

If you order something online, make sure you order the correct size. (Actually, make sure you get the correct size regardless.)

^this - size and adjustment really do matter. Knowledgeable friend that aren't trying to sell you something will also be good to have around!

Chankgeez wrote:WTF are you talking about?

Uhhh

^I have a hard time turning



^I don't have a hard time turning?

Psyre wrote:

Chankgeez wrote:WTF are you talking about?

Uhhh

^I have a hard time turning

Use your body weight. Lean into the turn.

Bikes direct is a great site. That is where I got my bike! Like has been stated make sure you get the proper size and also that it is assembled correctly. It is not as simple as just putting it together you need to grease every threaded bolt and make sure everything is properly centered.

You can put brakes on fixed-gear bikes too, doods. It isn't taboo.
It's prolly good to have if your chain breaks or somethin'.

Yeah, I have a front brake on mine. Wouldn't want to ride around campus without one. Too many idiots on the road or crossing the road.

Bikes are good! I lost my drivers licens in april and has been riding my bike to work ever since, lost 8 kilos in weight!
That is a half hour bike ride one way.

Achtane wrote:You can put brakes on fixed-gear bikes too, doods. It isn't taboo.
It's prolly good to have if your chain breaks or somethin'.

greyscales wrote:Yeah, I have a front brake on mine. Wouldn't want to ride around campus without one. Too many idiots on the road or crossing the road.

Rear brake, FTW.