Top 19 Best Single Speed Bikes Reviews 2020

Whether you want a simple way to exercise or prepare for your riding race, my review of the best single speed bikes will help you choose an ideal model.

The best single speed bikes provide you lots of benefits. It comes in a simple design, meaning no multiple gears are added to the construction. Therefore, it will require low maintenance. It is also easy to use and suitable for various purposes, such as casual riding, commuting riding, exercise, etc. mostly in less bumpy terrains like city roads.

It is also because of uncomplicated parts; single speed bikes are usually lightweight for easy maneuverability. Moreover, they are more affordable than some bike types. That’s why they have become more popular between riding enthusiasts and anyone who loves physical activity with bikes. 

As a result, there is a wide range of models on the market, making you feel overwhelmed and don’t know which style is the best one for you. Keeping that in mind, I decided to review the top 19 best single speed bikes available on the market to help you make an easier decision. 

Keep reading through this article to pick a favorite bike that meets your demand.

Read our latest guide about best cruiser bikes.

What are the Best Single Speed Bikes?

The best single speed bikes depend on various factors, but the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Single Speed Hybrid Bicycle is considered the best overall model. Although it is a bit higher-price, you can’t refuse its excellent features and premium grade quality.

The 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Urban Track Bike is also another great model that experts recommend because of its high performance and 10 colors to match various personalities.

I have listed the top 19 best single speed bikes with highlights of each style to help you save your time searching for hundreds of models out there. Let’s take a look.

Best Overall: sixthreezero EVRYjourney Single Speed Hybrid Bicycle

“Premium grade material; high performance; durable and strong construction; easy to use and control; comfortability; great upright position”

Best Value: sixthreezero Around The Block Single-Speed Bicycle

“Sturdy frame and fork; prolonged lifespan; extra-large saddle for a comfortable seat; work well on flat terrain; rust and corrosion-free”

Best for Beginners: Kulana Lakona Beach Cruiser Bike

“Easy to ride; fenders included; corrosion and rust protection; quick and precise stopping; durable construction; comfort for long riding”

Best for Mountain Bike: Eurobike Kingttu Dual Disc Brake Folding Bike

“Top-first material; durability; heavy-duty construction; withstand big weight; accurate brakes; convenient shifter; powerful 26-inch 3-spoke wheels”

Best for Road Bike: sixthreezero Men’s 7-Speed City Road Bicycle

“Excellent front and coaster hand brakes; a rear rack included; high-quality material; sturdy frame; lightweight design; smooth rolling”

Best for Commuting: Golden Cycles Single Speed Fixed Gear Bike

“Excellent for long distances; extended longevity; durable material; corrosion and rust prevention; customized riser bars; easy to control”

Best for Urban Bike: 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Urban Track Bike

“Great riser bars; incredible lightweight design; high-quality material; sturdy construction; reasonable price; smooth and comfortable rolling”

Best for Cross Bike: Retrospec Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike

“Excellent flip-flop hub; free of corrosion and rust; high-quality material; easy to ride; long-lasting; fast and comfortable riding”

Best for Fixed Gear Bike: Retrospec Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Fixie Single-Speed Bike

“High-quality hand-built frame and fork; high performance; durable material; great upright position for maximum comfort”

Best for One Speed Bike: Knus Beach Cruiser Urban Single-Speed Bike

“Sturdy crank set; oversized saddle; ideal for long distances; comfortability; stable riding; highly precise rear brake; easy to control”

Best for Cyclocross Bike: Retrospec Harper Single-Speed Urban Commuter Bike

“Flip-flop hub design; front and rear brakes; safe and accurate stopping; upright position for max comfort; free of shoulders strain; superior material”

Best for Hybrid Bike: Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Juliet Single Speed Bicycle

“Simple and lightweight design for ease of maneuvering; premium grade material; exceptionally durable; versatile application; smooth riding”

Best for Cruiser Bike: Schwinn Mikko & Huron Adult Beach Cruiser Single Speed Bike

“Wide tires; stable and smooth riding; rust and corrosion prevention; durable construction; easy to control; precise stopping with rear brake”

Best for Women: Firmstrong Navitas Organics Single-Speed Cruiser Bike

“Incredibly lightweight; easy to ride and maneuver; extra-large saddle for additional comfort; perfect for daily riding; durability”

Best for Men: sixthreezero In The Barrel Single Speed Beach Cruiser Bicycle

“Heavy-duty construction; simple design; bubble saddle; comfortability; durability; require low maintenance; smooth riding”

Best for Electric Bike: Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike

“Safe stopping with linear-pull brake; exceptionally lightweight; easy to ride; stability; oversized cushioned saddle; comfortability”

Best for Under $500: Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Medium Single Speed Bike

“Superior Tig-welded steel frame; durability; great flip-flop hub; simple design; low maintenance; drome saddle; free of rust and corrosion”

Best for Under $300: 6KU Fixed Gear Single Speed Urban Road Bike

“Precise stopping with front and rear brakes; heavy-duty and sturdy frame; smooth riding; built to last; great riser handlebars”

Best Cheap: Schwinn Kedzie Single-Speed Fixie Road Bike

“Budget-friendly option; great caliper hand brakes; crisp stopping; exceptionally lightweight; durability; adjustable and comfortable saddle”

Best Single Speed Bikes – Comparison Chart

Before going into details of the 19 best single speed bikes, I’d like to give you some fundamental information about these models, including size, frame material, wheel size, and specific purpose.

Those features will help you narrow down overwhelmed choices to select the most appropriate bike:

Top 19 Best Single Speed Bikes Reviews 2020

It’s time to discover the top 19 best single speed bikes available to purchase in 2020. In this part, I will cover all the key features, pros, and cons of each model to help you easily pick your suitable style.

Let’s delve into it!

Best Overall: sixthreezero EVRYjourney Single Speed Hybrid Bicycle

Key features 

• Wide paddle with dual spring cushion 
• 2-inch durable semi-slick tires
• Front hand brakes
• Handlebars are designed to ensure comfort curve
• A rear rack and fenders included
• Suitable for riders with 5 or 6 feet 4 inches height 

Product specs

Frame material	Aluminum
Wheel size	26 inches
Size	19inch/One size
Color	4 options
Item weight	36.5 lbs
Load capacity	300 lbs

The first thing to notice about this sixthreezero EVRYjourney single-speed bike is its sturdy and durable steel frame. This material provides you with maximum comfort, which is suitable for long hours riding. You can use it for normal riding or even commuting. 

Besides, the wheels are made from high-quality aluminum with large tires, creating a cushioned support feeling for effortless rolling and riding. What’s more, this bike is designed with the upright style, allowing you to ride it as comfortably as possible without affecting your back and shoulders.

Another great thing I love about this sixthreezero EVRYjourney bike is that it is equipped with additional parts for more convenience. For example, it includes a rear rack so that you can attach a basket or pannier on it. But these components are sold separately.

Best Value: sixthreezero Around The Block Single-Speed Bicycle

Key features

• Single speed for easy control 
• Constructed with coaster brakes
• The saddle is premium cushioned with high-density foam
• Comes with a rear rack 
• Rider height: 5 to 6 feet 2 inches

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	24 inches
Size	24 inches/1-speed
Color	3 options
Item weight	–
Load capacity	300 lbs

This sixthreezero Around The Block single speed bike is the same line with the previous model. However, this bike comes in a bit bigger size, which is 24 inches. Therefore, it will be more suitable for taller riders. 

This is a valuable option because it is made from top-first material with a strong steel frame. Although this construction is a bit heavier than aluminum, it will not get corrosive if left under the rain or harsh weather conditions. So you can expect it to last for many years to come.

Unlike the above model, this sixthreezero Around The Block bike has a smaller wheel size. This is the feature that I don’t really like about this bike because it will not be ideal for bumpy roads. However, in general, it is suitable for flat terrain and long distances.

Best for Beginners: Kulana Lakona Beach Cruiser Bike

Key features 

• Designed with vintage surf style
• The saddle is wide, cushioned, and high-density foam for maximum comfort
• The rear cargo rack is included for an optional basket
• Fenders included
• Rider height: 4 to 5 feet 

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	26 inches
Size	26 inches
Color	Blue
Item weight	46 lbs
Load capacity	–

My first impression about the Kulana Lakona Beach Cruiser Bike is its simple design with single speed drivetrain, making it an ideal for beginners because it is extremely easy to use. Besides, it has a rear coaster brake, allowing you to stop without effort.

Related: Best Cruiser Bikes for Women  

What’s more, you can notice that this bike has a super-large saddle and comes in an upright riding position. This design brings maximum comfort when you have to ride for hours and hours. 

Another great feature of the Kulana bike that the two above models don’t offer is the fenders. This feature helps prevent dust and mud from splashing up to you. It also increases classical flair with the pastel blue.

Best for Mountain Bike: Eurobike Kingttu Dual Disc Brake Folding Bike

Key features

• Excellent double suspension 
• Can withstand a maximum weight of 310 lbs
• Powerful disc brakes
• Rider height: 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	26 Inches
Size	–
Color	Blue
Item weight	42 lbs
Load capacity	310 lbs

The Eurobike Kingttu bike is equipped with unique 26-inch 3-spoke wheels, providing maximum support to help you easily ride on rocky and rough mountain trails. Besides, the disc brakes in the front and rear wheels provide you with optimum stopping power.

This bike is constructed with a premium grade steel frame and fork; therefore, it is relatively heavy (around 40 lbs) for some riders, especially women riders. In turn, it can stand up with a max load of 310 lbs.

See also: Best Mountain Bikes for Women

Another remarkable feature of this bike is its front and coaster Shimano derailleurs. It also provides riders with 21-speed options, and you can easily change between different speeds with a convenient shifter on the grips.

Best for Road Bike: sixthreezero Men’s 7-Speed City Road Bicycle

Key features 

• Easy to stop with 2 handbrakes options: front and gear
• Versatile design with 7 gears option for the optimum riding
• Curve handlebars for comfortable and easy control
• Handlebars are designed to adjust the tilt and height to fit your size quickly
• Rider height: 5 feet to 6 feet 2 inches

Product specs

Frame material	Aluminum
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	26 inches / 7-speed
Color	3 options
Item weight	32 lbs
Load capacity	–

The sixthreezero Men’s 7-Speed bike comes in a classic design with small wheels. Besides, it is constructed with lightweight and high-quality aluminum, which is ideal for road bikes. Its compact size will help you easily to pass through people on the road.

This bike is equipped with rear and front handbrakes, allowing you to stop it anytime effortlessly. The seat and handlebars are designed in an upright position, making sure your back and shoulders are not tired when riding for a long time.

Related: Best Road Bikes Under $500

Another unique feature of the sixthreezero Men’s 7-Speed bike is its dual-walled rims, ensuring smooth rides. Moreover, 7-speed offers various riding options. You can choose a suitable mode for leisure riding or commuting easily.

Best for Commuting: Golden Cycles Single Speed Fixed Gear Bike

Key features

• Front and rear brakes for easy and precise stopping
• Features both single and fixed gear speeds for the best riding experience 
• Excellent Golden Cycles Crank
• Riser bars can be easily customized to be suitable with city conditions
• Rider height: 4 feet to 6 feet 4 inches 

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	48 inches
Color	Heaven
Item weight	–
Load capacity	–

The Golden Cycles bike provides you with two option ridings: single speed and fixed gear speed, as its name implies. This design helps you experience more on every road, especially long-distance like from your home to work and vice versa.

Besides, this bike is equipped with front and rear brakes, ensuring easy, quick, and precise stopping. This is considered a great feature for commuting because you don’t know what you will encounter on the road. 

Another feature making this bike an ideal option for commuting is its premium-grade high-tensile steel frame. What’s more, it is constructed using Tig-welds technology, ensuring strength and durability. Moreover, it can prevent rust and corrosion, so you don’t need to worry if it exposes to rain or intense sun.

Best for Urban Bike: 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Urban Track Bike

Key features

• Incredibly lightweight with 6061 aluminum for convenient carrying
• Excellent riser bars for quick and easy direction/navigation in the urban condition
• Front and coaster brakes included
• Rider height: 4 feet 10 inches to 6 feet 6 inches  

Product specs

Frame material	Aluminum
Wheel size	–
Size	XS
Color	2 options
Item weight	21
Load capacity	–

The 6KU single speed bike is made using high-quality 6061 aluminum, which is considered one of the most lightweight materials. This construction creates more convenience for you to ride in crowded places as urban. 

Besides, this bike has an outstanding feature, which is its riser bars, providing you with additional support for effortless navigation. It is also equipped with both rear and front brakes, allowing fast and precise stopping. 

In addition, the 6KU bike has a simple design, making it easy to clean and maintain. However, it doesn’t include fenders in both two wheels. This drawback might make you dirty with mud when riding in the rain.

Best for Cross Bike: Retrospec Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Bike

Key features

• The rear wheel hub comes in flip-flop design 
• Great dual-walled rims
• Great bullhorn handlebars

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	57cm/Large
Color	Celeste
Item weight	–
Load capacity	220 lbs

One of the greatest features of the Retrospec Critical bike is its flip-flop backward wheel hub, allowing you to switch from fixed gear speed to single speed more straightforwardly. 

Besides, it is built with top-first and sturdy steel material. This frame is strong and durable enough to withstand tough conditions. It also prevents the bike from being rusty or corrosive if it is left under the rain or exposed to much water for a long time.

Another notable thing about this bike is its bullhorn handlebars that come with high-quality rubber grips. This excellent combination provides you with comfort and allows you to ride faster, especially when you need to pass pedestrians on city roads.

Best for Fixed Gear Bike: Retrospec Critical Cycles Harper Coaster Fixie Single-Speed Bike

Key features

• Premium hand-built steel frame for maximum durability 
• Super deep-v dual-walled rims
• Excellent Kenda City tires
• It doesn’t cause toe overlap 

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	57cm, L
Color	2 options
Item weight	27 lbs
Load capacity	250 lbs

The Retrospec Critical fixie single-speed bike comes with a great coaster brake system, allowing you to stop more straightforwardly. All you need to do is pedal backward, and the bike will stop immediately. 

Not only provides smooth rolling, but this bike also gives you the most comfortable riding experience. The riser handlebars are designed in an upright position, making your back and shoulders stay straight. You will not feel tired and can be ready to ride for a long distance with ease and comfort.

Like the previous model, this bike’s frame is also constructed with top-first material, creating strength to withstand elements and harsh outdoor conditions. Besides, it can prevent corrosion and rust, ensuring a prolonged lifespan.

Best for One Speed Bike: Knus Beach Cruiser Urban Single-Speed Bike

Key features

• Super-large saddle for optimum comfort
• Heavy-duty crank set
• Dual springs
• Rider height: 5 feet to 6 feet

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	26 inches
Size	–
Color	3 options
Item weight	34.8 lbs
Load capacity	222.2 lbs

The Knus single speed bike offers only one speed, as its name suggests, which is ideal for casual/leisure riding or beach cruising. What’s more, it has rear brakes, which is really easy to use and provides safe and precise stopping.

Related: Best Beach Cruiser Bikes

Besides, I was also impressed with its curvy frame. It looks so great. More importantly, it is constructed with high-quality and strong steel, allowing it to stand up with the hardest conditions without rust or corrosion.

Another crucial feature of this bike is its superior comfortability. It is designed with an upright position; therefore, you don’t need to lean too much forwards or backward, reducing significantly strains on your shoulders. It also allows you to sit and ride with complete leg extension.

Best for Cyclocross Bike: Retrospec Harper Single-Speed Urban Commuter Bike

Key features

• Convenient flip-flop hub included 
• Comes with front and coaster brakes
• Great riser handlebars
• Dual-walled rims

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	60cm, XL
Color	Retrospec White & Black
Item weight	25 lbs
Load capacity	220 lbs

The Retrospec Harper single speed bike is specifically hand-built with superior-quality material. Its strong and sturdy steel frame provides additional strength to withstand impact and other harsh conditions. 

Another worth-mentioning thing of this bike is its front and rear brakes. This feature provides maximum safety, letting you control the bike better and can stop anytime with no trouble. 

Besides, the freestyle paddles and upright position design creates an optimum, smooth, and comfortable riding. Therefore, you can ride it for long distances without tiredness. What’s more, although it is made from steel, it seems to be relatively lightweight, ensuring easy carrying.

Best for Hybrid Bike: Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Juliet Single Speed Bicycle

Key features

• Flexible flip-flop hub
• Tig-welded steel frame
• Simple but powerful and versatile design
• Rider height: 4 feet 11 inches to 6 feet 6 inches  

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	54cm/Medium
Color	Juliet Matte Black
Item weight	22 – 25 inches (depending on size)
Load capacity	–

The Pure Juliet fixed gear single speed bike is a perfect combination of speed and style. You can choose your favorite riding modes using its flip-flop rear hub. Besides, the front brake design allows you to stop easily and precisely no matter the speeds you are riding.

This lightweight bike is built with exceptionally strong and heavy-duty steel. Therefore, you can ride it under any weather conditions without worrying about corrosion. What’s more, the drome saddle ensures comfortable riding, especially when you have ridden for long hours.

The Pure fixed gear single speed bike is particularly designed with wheels and tires that have the ability to provide the best control. You don’t need to worry about slipping during the rain because it contacts the road very well.

See also: Best Hybrid Bike for Men

Best for Cruiser Bike: Schwinn Mikko & Huron Adult Beach Cruiser Single Speed Bike

Key features

• Relatively wide tires
• Excellent single speed drivetrain
• Cushioned, wide saddle for maximum comfort
• Fenders included
• Rider height: 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 2 inches  

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	26 Inches
Size	17-Inch/Medium
Color	4 options
Item weight	45 lbs
Load capacity	250 lbs

Like most models in this list, the Schwinn cruiser single speed bike is made from high-quality, sturdy steel. This material makes its frame stronger to prevent impacts. It also protects the bike from substances causing wear or rust.

The cruiser handlebars are combined with an upright position, decreasing stress on the shoulders and back. From that, you can expect a comfortable seat and can ride for a long time.

Another great feature of the Schwinn bike is its rear brake. With this design, you can easily control the speed and stop anytime quickly and safely. 

Best for Women: Firmstrong Navitas Organics Single-Speed Cruiser Bike

Key features

• Soft, anti-slip foam grips
• Excellent balloon tires
• Super-large saddle
• Sturdy paddles
• Rider height: 5 feet to 6 feet tall

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	26 inches
Size	15.5 inch/Large
Color	10 options
Item weight	25 – 30lbs
Load capacity	300 lbs

If you are looking for a single speed bike for women with 5’ or 6’ tall, don’t forget to give the  Firmstrong Navitas Organics a try. It is specifically made for girls with a strong, durable frame. However, the wheels are made from aluminum, so the total weight of the bike is relatively light. Therefore, it is easy to maneuver. 

Another notable feature to mention about this bike is its rear brake, which is really easy to use. It also helps you stop quickly and more precisely. Besides, the tires are also wide and thick, providing smooth rolling.

What’s more, the Firmstrong bike is designed with a large seat and handlebars. These two features create additional comfort. However, it is not designed with water bottle mounting for long distances riding.

Best for Men: sixthreezero In The Barrel Single Speed Beach Cruiser Bicycle

Key features

• Single-speed for casual riding
• Offer a simple gear system
• Curvy handlebars
• Coaster brake for easy stopping
• Excellent bubble saddle
• Rider height: 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 4 inches 

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	26 Inches
Size	18-Inch
Color	3 options
Item weight	30 lbs
Load capacity	300 lbs

Like the previous model, the sixthreezero In The Barrel single speed bike is designed for daily rides, like going to the beach, or on the boardwalk, etc. However, it is particularly made for men with a bigger size. Moreover, the forward pedaling creates the best position for taller men.

Besides, this bike comes with an extra-large saddle that provides additional comfort. Because this model has a very simple design, its brakes are also uncomplicated. You just need to pedal backward to stop anytime. 

Another advantage of the sixthreezero In The Barrel bike is its great balloon tires. This feature helps increase grip with the road surfaces to prevent unwanted slippering. 

Best for Electric Bike: Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike

Key features

• Comes with adjustable handlebars
• Unique three-wheel design 
• Excellent front and rear fenders
• Wide space for a large basket
• Rider height: 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 2 inches 

Product specs

Frame material	Aluminum
Wheel size	26 Inches
Size	26-Inch
Color	9 options
Item weight	70 lbs
Load capacity	350 lbs

The first thing to notice about the Schwinn tricycle bike is that it comes with 3 wheels, creating more stability, helping anyone can easily ride it, even beginners. Moreover, the two rear wheels provide an extremely large space for putting a basket for optional groceries or other goods.

Although it looks a bit cumbersome, it is relatively lightweight because of its aluminum material. The frame is also designed with an ultra-low standover position, allowing you to sit on the saddle without effort. 

Besides, all three wheels of the Schwinn bike are built with front and rear fenders. This feature will protect you from mud or dirt during rainy or damp weather.

Best for Under $500: Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Medium Single Speed Bike

Key features

• Excellent flip-flop hub
• Comes with a place for a water bottle 
• Premium Tig-welded steel frame
• The front brake can be quickly removed 

Product specs

Frame material	Aluminum
Wheel size	–
Size	54cm/Medium
Color	2 options
Item weight	23 lbs
Load capacity	250 lbs

The Pure medium single speed bike is constructed with high-quality, sturdy steel frame and fork, creating additional strength to stand up with impact. This material seems to be slightly heavy, but it is durable and free of corrosion and rust.

What’s more, it is designed with a flip-flop hub, allowing you to change from freewheel speed to fixed gear quickly without any effort. Therefore, you can easily choose a suitable speed depending on the terrain you’re riding the bike on.

Related: Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500

Besides, I also love the front brake design, which can be easily removed anytime, providing a funnier riding experience. However, if you are a novice rider, I recommend not removing it to ensure you can stop in a timely and accurate manner.

Best for Under $300: 6KU Fixed Gear Single Speed Urban Road Bike

Key features

• Front and coaster brakes for more stopping power
• Advanced flip-flop hub
• Require low maintenance 
• Provide smooth and easy rolling
• Rider height: 4 feet 11 inches to 6 feet 5 inches  

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	2 inches
Size	L/55cm
Color	Slate
Item weight	24 lbs
Load capacity	250 lbs

With under $300, you can own a great single speed bike for urban and casual riding as the 6 KU fixie road bike. Moreover, it is designed with a flip-flop hub, allowing you to move from single-speed to fixie to match riding terrain. 

Another great thing to look at this bike is its outstanding riser handlebars, which are designed with low and wide shape to ensure fast handling and navigation. Besides, it comes in all tools to build the bike more straightforwardly. 

See also: Best Hybrid Bikes Under $300

The 6 KU bike is also made from a steel fork and frame like most models on this list. This material provides excellent strength to protect the bike from harsh impact. What’s more, it is built to withstand corrosion or rust in case it is exposed to lots of rainwater.

Best Cheap: Schwinn Kedzie Single-Speed Fixie Road Bike

Key features

• Excellent double side hub
• Offers caliper hand brakes
• Saddle’s post can be easily adjusted 

Product specs

Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	700 centimeters
Size	One size
Color	2 options
Item weight	32.18 lbs
Load capacity	–

One of the most highlighted features of the Schwinn fixie road bike is its caliper brakes in both front and rear wheels. This excellent design helps deliver as precise stopping as possible. It is also suitable for riding on busy roads like in the city.

The high-quality, durable steel frame and alloy rims provide maximum strength and performance, especially for long-distance riding. Besides, it also has a flip-flop hub to help you quickly change between freewheel or fixed gear ridings.

Another strong point of this bike is its cushioned saddle. It is designed with unique Schwinn technology to give you the best comfortable seat. What’s more, the grips are also designed to help you easily handle on city road conditions.

Single Speed Bikes’ Buyer Guide: How to Choose the Right Bike?

Everyone’s need to use a single speed bike is different, which can be for commuting, for riding in urban or mountain areas, etc. No matter what purpose you use it for, there are a few things that you need to consider when shopping for the best single speed bikes.

Check out the following criteria to pick a suitable model for you!

Gearing

Picking the right gear is the first thing to consider when you are purchasing your single speed bike. The reason behind this is that you will ride it over hills, through harsh weather, etc., and a good gearing will determine how well your ride is during those conditions.

One of the best ways to calculate the gearing ratio is based on the gear inches. You can use an app named Bike Gear Calculator, which is available for both Android and iPhone, to figure out the inches. 

For example, if your purpose is riding a bike for commuting, then you should go with models with around 70 gear inches. This number would be slightly bigger if you live in a place with flat roads.

Handlebars

Because single-speed bikes are usually ridden in urban areas; therefore their handlebars commonly come in shape to help you easily pass pedestrians and other vehicles. 

Basically, there are 4 types of handlebars as follows.

Drop bar: This type comes in a lower position than others, which is ideal for riding in an aerodynamic way.

Bullhorns: If you intend to buy a single-speed bike for racing, or just to ride faster than your old model, you should go with this handlebar. 

Rise bar or mustache: This option is rarely found in single-speed bikes. Basically, it is designed for a more backward-leaning position, which is a bit difficult to control, especially for beginners.

Flat bar: This is considered one of the most common choices because it is designed shorter, and the brakes are also narrower than the three above ones. This construction brings the most comfort for easy maneuvering. 

Frame & Fork

Frame and fork are other crucial things to look at when you’re shopping for single-speed bikes. There are three major frame designs, including commuting, forward-leaning, and leveraged upright road frames.

The first construction is ideal for riding a long distance, such as commuting from home to work and vice versa. The second one seems to be more popular because of its versatility. That means you can use it for racing, mountain biking, and many other purposes. The last model is specifically designed for those who love leisure or gentle riding.

Furthermore, you should also pay attention to the frame and fork’s materials. Basically, these parts are made from the same materials. 

High tensile steel will provide you with super comfort when riding, especially for long hours. It is also more heavy-duty than aluminum, but it is easier to be rusted and corrosive if leaf under extreme conditions. Another advantage of this material is that it is cheaper than aluminum. 

Having said that, aluminum offers a better ability to prevent corrosion and rust if exposed to tough conditions. It is also lightweight and durable. 

In addition, you can consider a frame made from carbon fiber. However, this material is not as common as the two previous ones due to its expensiveness. Therefore, it is only found in upmarket models. On the other hand, it gives you the best performance, strength, and durability.

Wheels & Tires

The most common tire size of single-speed bikes is 700 x 25 c. This size is considered ideal for exercising, commuting, or cruising. The bigger sizes are usually 700 x 28 c or 700 x 32 c, which is suitable for beginning riders. It is also a popular choice for mountain riding. The smaller size will be a perfect option for those looking for racing bikes.

Bike Size

Besides wheels and tires dimensions, choosing an appropriate bike size is another important factor you should notice. This number is measured from the lowest bracket to the bike’s top tube and usually displayed in cm or inches.

For example, if you are 6’ tall, then you should go with 24-inch bikes. If you are a short rider, the most suitable size is around 19 inches or 49 cm.

Another crucial thing to check is the weight limit. Almost all single-speed bikes now can withstand a loading capacity of above 200 lbs.

Brakes

There are different types of the brake when it comes to single-speed bikes, including handbrake, foot brake or coaster brake, disc brake, etc. If you are a novice rider, I would recommend using a handbrake because it is easy to use and control.

If you have small fingers, you can go with a disc brake. This style offers excellent stopping power and great ease of use. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When shopping for the best single speed bikes, I’m sure many of you encountered lots of queries that haven’t been answered yet. Keeping that in mind, I picked some of the most frequently asked questions about this vehicle and gave you detailed answers to them.

Let’s check it out!

Are single speed bikes fast?

The answer is yes. The reason behind this is that they are equipped with one gear only, reducing significant resistance while riding. Besides, they are also lightweight, and you can pedal fast or slowly to reach your desired speed.

Can you coast on a single speed bike?

Yes, you can. A single speed bike has 2 gears, one in the front and the other one is a freewheel gear that is in the back. Therefore, you can coast it and do other activities like normal bikes do without switching to another gear.

Is A Single Speed Bike Good For Commuting?

Yes, it is. There are some reasons why it is ideal for commuting, especially for long-distance rides. First, it is designed with a wide and high-density support foam saddle, creating a comfortable seat that is perfect for long and bumpy roads. 

Besides, single speed bikes usually come in a compact, simple construction because all redundant parts are stripped off. This design makes it easier for you to ride or take it. Moreover, you can invest in other important parts such as frame, wheels, etc. with higher-quality material to experience the best riding performance. 

Who Should Use a Single-Speed Bike?

The fact is that anyone can use a single-speed bike because it comes in a simple design with a few parts. Besides, it is also lightweight and easy to ride; even a beginner can start to learn and ride it fast. 

It is also popular among commuters who usually have to ride a long distance from their home to work because it provides them with fast speed, uncomplicated construction, and a comfortable saddle. Mountain riders can also use single-speed bikes with bigger tires to be suitable for riding topography. 

What are the differences between single speed and fixed gear bikes?

The biggest difference between a single speed bike and a fixed gear bike is the operation of the freewheel on the rear axle. This feature is only found in single speed bikes, allowing you to ride without pedaling.

On the other hand, a fixed gear bike will not be equipped with freewheel rotation, and the cogwheels will always be moving. With this model, you can stop it by pedaling backward. 

Are single speed bikes good for fitness?

Yes, single speed bikes can improve your health and fitness, especially for legs. Because to ride faster, you will need to boost your cadence. This action helps your leg muscles contract more quickly. Simultaneously, your heart and lungs also work more to maintain the padeling’s increased rate. 

My Top Picks 

Choosing the best single speed bikes will not be a daunting task anymore if you follow my reviews and buying guide. I hope it will help you know more about this bicycle type and pick a suitable model. 

All things considered, my top pick would be the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Single Speed Hybrid Bicycle because of its premium quality and durability. Another valuable option you can consider is the 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Urban Track Bike. If you find this review useful, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up or share. Thanks for reading.