Advantages and disadvantages

In slippery conditions some riders prefer to ride fixed because they believe the transmission provides increased feedback on back tire grip.^[18]

Descending any significant gradient is more difficult as the rider must spin the cranks at a very high speed (sometimes at 170 rpm or more), or use the brakes to slow down. Some consider that the enforced fast spin when descending increases suppleness or flexibility, which is said to then improve pedalling performance on any type of bicycle.^[19]

Riding fixed is considered by some to encourage a more effective pedaling style, which is claimed translates into greater efficiency and power when used on a bicycle fitted with a freewheel.^[20]

When first riding a fixed gear, a cyclist used to a freewheel has a tendency to try to coast, particularly when approaching corners or obstacles. Since freewheeling, or coasting, is not possible, this can lead to anything from a 'kick' to the trailing leg, up to a loss of control of the bicycle.

Riding at speed around corners can be difficult for the novice rider, as the pedals can strike the road, resulting in a possible loss of control.

Without gears, fixed-gear cyclists cannot shift into more advantageous gears for steep climbs or descents.

Also, a fixed gear bicycle has fewer moving parts than a multi-gear bicycle and therefore requires less maintenance.