Are you a poser?
I have a theory. Many people seem to think that it is uncool to have a brake on a fixed gear bike, but why? Please correct me if I’m wrong, but perhaps it’s because track racers don’t use brakes on the track. The track, however, is a controlled environment. Just because you’re capable of stopping without brakes doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have them on the bike you ride on the streets where there are constant obstacles endangering your own and others’ lives. Of course, many will admire and idolize their favorite track stars, or even the simplicity and beauty of a track bike, but let’s face it, many of us only ride on the streets. In a sense, doesn’t having no brakes on your street bike kind of make you a poser?
It doesn’t matter what type of riding you’re doing whether it be track racing, time trials, criteriums, or just commuting or cruising with friends. It doesn’t matter if you ride geared, single speed, or fixed gear. I say ride your bicycle because you enjoy doing it, but ride safely so you can ride tomorrow.
