Fixies Not Just for Hipsters

January 31st, 2008 by BallerRide View Comments

The fixed-gear bike is a trend that has blown up over the past couple of years with hipsters and the trustafarian set. Now it seems to be expanding beyond its bohemian roots, becoming a more permanent fixture in urban culture. Since fixed-gear bikes (a.k.a. fixies) have come onto the scene so hard, we thought we’d give you a quick look into what this trend’s all about and highlight one of the more baller fixies to come out: the AF1 Silver Service.

The Background on Fixies

A fixed-gear bicycle or fixed wheel bicycle, is any bicycle without a freewheel and usually only one gear ratio. By resisting the forward motion of the pedals, a rider is able to slow the bike to a stop, without the aid of a hand brake. Fixies were originally intended for racing at bike tracks known as velodromes. They became popular with bike messengers, hipsters, scenester, and trustafarians. Now, repressed anger towards your parents doesn’t seem to be a prerequisite for owning one.

The Air Force 1 Silver Service Fixie

To commemorate the 25-year anniversary of Nike’s Air Force 1, the Wilson Brothers team has created the AF1 Silver Service fixie, a traditionally lugged, steel–framed bicycle. The bicycle has been added to the curation at the Dover Street Market in London, as part of a larger installation honoring the sneaker. If you’re in London, go check it out.

[AF1 Silver Service via Format]