Riding a fixed is the best way to telegraph your superiority over someone on a carbon superbike

A few weeks ago, I decided to take my decades-old fixed-gear bicycle for a ride. This particular bike had been neglected for some time due to its dirty condition, and I preferred not to use my other bike that was still in the process of being prepared for use. As I approached my fixed gear bike, I felt a sense of nostalgia for a time when riding these bikes was a clear indication of one's cycling superiority.

Fixed gear bikes were once a symbol of exclusivity and knowledge within the cycling community, as riders would engage in heated discussions about gear ratios, gear inches, and the elusive concept of "souplesse." While some may argue that geared bikes are faster and more comfortable, the unique experience of riding a fixed-gear bike cannot be replicated.

The simplicity of pedaling without brakes, the increased awareness of terrain, and the exhilarating feeling of maintaining control while descending are all part of the charm that draws many cyclists back to fixed gear riding. As the cycling world continues to evolve, it's worth considering whether a resurgence in the popularity of fixed gear bikes might be on the horizon.