Single speed bikes are different from many bicycles in that they have only one gear. Unlike many bikes that have several gear options, single speed riders must rely on just one speed, whether they like it or not. Single speed riders must be able to conquer hills small and large without the ability to shift to a more manageable gear. While this may sound less than desirable, the single speed offers many bonuses that make it a viable option for cycling novices and experts alike.
The Pros of a Single Speed Bike
A single speed bike consists of one cog attached to the hub of the back wheel of the bike. Some advantages to this design include:
- Lightweight. A single speed does not have an entire set of gears and also does not have a derailleur system, taking off a considerable amount of weight from the bike.
- Greater speeds. Less weight means you can travel faster. Also, the chain is not subjected to as much friction because it only has to travel around a single cog in a straight line, rather than traveling around a cog and derailleur system.
- Easier maintenance. Fewer gears means fewer parts to have to keep clean. It is easy to reach the chain and clean the nooks and crannies of a single speed.
- Less expensive. Single speeds are generally less expensive than comparable models with multiple gears. This makes it a decent entry level bike for novices looking for a ride that doesn't cost an arm and a leg.
The Cons of a Single Speed Bike
While a single speed has many advantages that make it an attractive option, it comes with its own set of challenges that riders must be prepared to face, such as:
- Riding difficulty. Single speeds can be very difficult to ride on hilly terrain. If you live in an area with a lot of hills, you may want to wait until you are more experienced to take on a single speed.
- Higher fitness requirement. Since it is more difficult to conquer hills on a single speed, riders need a higher base level of fitness to ride around comfortably.
- Less efficient. Single speeds are less efficient in terms of energy expended, and so can place a lot of strain on your body compared to a geared bike that uses your energy more efficiently.
There are many advantages to riding a single speed if you can get over the demanding difficulty and fitness level required to get around. Remember that, like any bike, single speeds should be locked properly whenever left alone to avoid the risk of theft. Single speeds may be less desirable to some people, but thieves will not hesitate to steal any functional bike that they can get their hands on. These single gear bikes have also become a fashion trend in some areas and so may require a heightened level of lock security to minimize the chance of theft.
Contact Us
To speak to an experienced bike lock expert about how to properly secure your single speed, please contact A&Js' bike locks today at 708-460-2999.
