As a newbie biker, you might feel confused when it comes to BMX bikes and their gear setup. We are going to clear this confusion. Continue reading to learn more!
There are numerous bike varieties with distinctive characteristics and functions available for cyclists to choose from. BMX bikes and fixed-gear bikes are two common sorts of bicycles.
Some people can be unsure if they are the same thing. This article will examine the subject matter “Are BMX bikes fixed gear?”. This will dispel any misunderstandings that may exist regarding these two categories of bicycles.
What are BMX Bikes?
BMX bikes are regarded as one of the best adventure bikes, and they are getting worldwide popularity. These bikes are perfect for seasoned cyclists.
The single-speed gear system of BMX bikes is one of their distinguishing characteristics. This is one of the most demanding single-speed bikes on the market right now.
BMX bikes don’t have derailleur hangers like other bikes. As a result, even if you stop pedaling, the rear wheel will continue to rotate, but the cranks will stop turning.
Despite having a single-gear ratio, BMX bikes can outperform their multi-gear counterparts. Are BMX bikes fixed gear? The answer isn’t that simple.
Do BMX Bikes Have Gears?
Before answering the question “Are BMX Bikes fixed gear” let’s talk about do they have gears? BMX bikes include gears that allow riders to pedal more effectively.
Compared to other heavy-duty motorcycles, BMX bikes only have one gear. BMX bikes come with two types of gearing: tall gearing and short gearing.
Tall gearing makes it more difficult for the rider to pedal. But produces more speed because of the large BMX bike gear ratio.
Conversely, pedaling is simpler with short gears. The BMX bike gear ratios depend on the number of teeth on the sprocket.
The gear ratio increases with the number of teeth in the sprocket, the more teeth in the sprocket the larger the ratio. The reverse of this is factual for short gear ratios.
You can determine the gear ratio via the BMX bike gear ratio calculator. The gear ratio is used to determine how hard it is to pedal the bike.
How To Find the Gear Ratio of Your BMXBike? To find the ratio, divide the number of teeth on the chain ring by the number on the sprocket. For example, if the chain ring has 25 teeth and the sprocket has 9 teeth, the gear ratio would be 2.78.
Remember, though, that the width of the tires and the size of the wheels can also have an impact on the gear ratio. Now let’s clear the confusion “Are BMX bikes fixed gear?”
How Does Fixed Gear Bike Work?
The pedals and back wheel of a fixed-gear bicycle are directly connected because it lacks a freewheel mechanism. The rear wheel heads forward as the rider advances on the pedals. When the rider stops pedaling, the back wheel also comes to a stop.
This means that when riding a fixed-gear bike, the user must constantly pedal and cannot coast. Continue reading to learn more about “Are BMX bikes fixed gear”.
Related: To Know Are BMX Bikes Good for Long Distance Journeys then Read Here
Fixed Gear Bike vs Single Gear
Let’s examine the differences between fixed gears and single gears. The difference between single-speed and fixed-gear bikes explained here will give you an idea of whether the BMX bike is fixed-gear or not.
Are BMX Bikes Fixed Gear: Freewheel Mechanism
- Single speed – Freewheel mechanism
- Fixed Gear – No Freewheel mechanism
A single-speed bike often incorporates a freewheel mechanism. The Freewheel mechanism enables the rider to coast while the bike is moving without pedaling. The bike will continue to move forward even if the rider stops pedaling.
A fixed-gear bike, however, lacks a freewheel mechanism. The rear wheel heads ahead when the rider pedals forward because the pedals and the rear wheel are connected.
The rear wheel stops turning if the rider stops pedaling, so the rider cannot coast and must continuously pedal.
Are BMX bikes fixed-gear if they have freewheel mechanisms? The answer is no. According to the working mechanism of BMX bikes (explained above), BMX bikes are single-speed with freewheel mechanisms.
Are BMX Bikes Fixed Gear: Braking
- Single Speed – Have Brakes
- Fixed Gear – No Brakes
Like geared bikes, single-speed bikes are equipped with brakes. When you want to stop the bike or slow it down, these brakes are useful. Hand brakes that function properly are typically found on single-speed BMX bikes.
In contrast, fixed-gear bikes don’t need brakes because you can stop them without pedaling by using your feet. You must peddle more slowly and put your feet on the ground to stop the bike.
Fixed gear bike vs geared: The former without brakes is illegal in numerous states and nations. The latter is secure and legal.
Are BMX bikes fixed gear: As we mentioned before, single-speed bikes are equipped with brakes, which proves that BMX is not a fixed-gear bike. Fixed-gear bikes mostly come without brakes.
Note: Some BMX bikes lack brakes by design, which is risky and against the law in some places. When using a BMX bike with no brakes, a rider must use their feet or other body parts to slow down or stop the bike.
Are Fixed Gear Bikes Dangerous?
Most people have questions in their minds about fixed-gear bikes. Are fixed-gear bikes safe? If not handled properly, fixed-gear bicycles can be dangerous.
Riders need to have good speed control and stopping skills because the pedals are always connected to the back wheel. Furthermore, fixed-gear bikes lack brakes, making them even riskier if the rider is unable to stop the bike in time.
Some people still prefer fixed-gear bikes despite the fact they are not as popular as they were 10-12 years ago.
Why fixed-gear bikes are better than geared ones: Fixed-gear bikes are preferable because they are easier to use, lighter, smooth, and speedy.
Their smooth and speedy performance makes the fixed-gear bike downhill thrilling. In comparison to geared bikes, they also require less maintenance. If you are a fixed-gear lover, then go and get a fixed-gear bike on Craigslist.
Final Words
BMX bikes are unquestionably single-speed bikes based on the differences mentioned above. They have a freewheel mechanism that encourages coasting and has brakes. This leads us to believe that they are single-speed.
Note: The majority of BMX bikes are single-speed, but specialized or customized models often have fixed gears. So, if you ask a particular manufacturer, you can have a fixed-gear BMX.
