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The humble single-speed is the hallmark of simplicity when it comes to urban cycling. These simple, minimal one gear bikes have become trendy once again. And, it’s for good reason.
What they lack in technology, they more than make up for in aesthetic. Lightweight, low maintenance and efficient, these bikes are perfect for the city commuter. For short to moderate distance cycling, they’re also usually a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
But with so many to choose from, how do you know which ones right for you? Luckily, we’ve rounded up a list of the top 7 single-speed bikes for city cyclists currently on the market. Let’s dive in.
Best Single Speed Bikes (Top 7)
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SIMPLE AND NIMBLE
Priority Ace of Clubs
Hassle free single speed for the casual commuter getting around town or the weekend cruiser.
-
FUN AND STYLISH
State Bicycle Co. Wulf
Tough and versatile, a sleek entry level bike for the majority of users.
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CLASS AND SOPHISTICATION
Cinelli Tutto Plus
Track meets city in this sophisticated urban racer, designed for messengers and commuters alike.
-
CHEAP AND CHEERFUL
Elops City Bike 500
Value for money entry level single speed/fixed gear for short trips around town.
-
ELECTRIC COMMUTER
Ride1UP Roadster V2
E-bike in disguise for those who want a little boost on their way to work.
-
STEALTH ADVENTURER
State Bicycle Co. 4130
Durable and large tired bike that’s great at handling most terrains that you can throw at it.
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WORRY FREE ALL-ROUNDER
Wythe Fixie Bike
Daytime commuter, nighttime racer. Lightweight single speed/fixed gear with aggressive and responsive track geometry.
What is a Single-Speed Bike?
A single-speed bike is a bicycle has only one gear ratio, meaning you can’t change gear. They’re easy to maintain, lightweight and have a clean classic aesthetic.
Single-speeds, by their very nature, are the simplest of bicycles. They have few components, no gears to shift (or maintain!) and are usually pretty quiet thanks to their lack of moving parts.
Some single-speeds are also fixies, but many have the option to be both. Whilst a single-speed has a freewheel allowing you to coast, a fixed-gear bike doesn’t. The latter has some unique advantages, such as responsiveness and greater efficiency, but they can be difficult to use for beginners.
Still, it’s always a plus when you have the option to choose between the two. You’re effectively getting two bikes for the price of one!
Who Is a Single-Speed Bike For?
A single-speed bike can be a great choice for a number of riders, especially those who value simplicity and efficiency. From city dwellers to track racers, there’s a huge variety available to suit most needs.
Single-speed bikes are often a great option for the budget-conscious cyclists. Having less components than their geared counterparts usually translates to a reduced cost, so there’s great savings to be had.
They’re also great for those who want to maintain their own bikes. Single-speeds generally require minimal maintenance, so for those who don’t have the time or knowledge of bicycle upkeep they’re a great option, even for complete beginners!
Single-speeds, however, aren’t necessarily for everyone. When it comes to hilly terrain, their lack of gears means that climbing can be a serious workout.
They also aren’t usually great for long-distance riders, especially if there’s a variation in terrain. For touring and bikepacking, a geared bike might be a more versatile option.
Single-Speed Bicycles Pros + Cons
Pros
- Simplicity: Single-speeds have a minimal design with few components, meaning that they encourage a DIY approach to maintenance.
- Lightweight: Stripped-down design means that they’re usually considerably lighter than their multi-speed counterparts.
- Affordable: Reduced componentry often translates to lower cost when it comes to bikes, so they’re great for those on a budget.
- Personalisation: Single-speeds are notoriously easy to customise and personalise, from swapping out the handlebars or saddle to a brand new paint job.
Cons
- Inefficiency on Hills: Climbing steep hills on a single-speed can be a serious physical challenge.
- Lower Top Speed: The top speed of a single-speed depends largely on the gear ratio. At some point, your legs can only move so fast.
- Less Versatile: They’re better suited for urban environments, where agility and maneuverability are critical.
- Distance Struggles: Generally, single speeds aren’t good for longer distance. This rings especially true if there is a variation in terrain.
Best Single-Speed Bike (Top 7)
1. Priority Ace of Clubs
-
£475 -
$599 -
€560
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 9.98-10.9kg (22-24lb)
- Wheel Size: 28″
- Max Load: Unknown
- Lights: ❌
- Fenders: ❌
- Pannier Rack: ❌
- Flip Flop Hub: ✅
The Ace of Clubs from Priority is a great choice for recreational riders and commuters who want a no-nonsense, reliable single-speed or fixed gear.
The bike of choice for messengers and alleycat racers alike, this belt drive bicycle offers a smoother, quieter ride than it’s chained counterparts.
It comes equipped with modern and quality components, and has two brakes installed as standard. It’s also got a flip-flop hub for those wanting to ride it as a fixie.
Pros
- Smooth and quiet Gates Carbon drive system
- Designed to be low maintenance.
- Ultra light
- Budget friendly
Cons
- Thickslick tires have reduced grip, which may be a problem
- Fixed rear sprocket an additional extra for those wanting to ride it as a fixie
- Limited colour options
2. State Bicycle Co. Wulf
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£386 -
$399 -
€399
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 10.6kg (23.4lb) (55″ Model with riser bars)
- Wheel Size: Deep V Wheel Set ft. 40mm High-Flange Hubs
- Max Load: Unknown
- Lights: Optional Extra
- Fenders: ❌
- Pannier Rack: ❌
- Flip Flop Hub: ✅
A solid entry level commuter at a great price. The State Wulf has a solid build and a clean finish that’s guaranteed to turn heads. Great as an everyday bike.
The bike is easy to handle, making it a great choice for riders of all levels. Whilst it’s a nippy single-speed, it’s a bike that’s meant to be ridden around the city rather than the track.
It’s a solid, durable and reliable workhorse that can take a pounding.
Pros
- Clean aesthetic
- Excellent price/quality ratio
- Choice of handlebars
Cons
- Stiff to ride
- Limited colour options
3. Cinelli Tutto Plus
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£1,149 -
$1,020 -
€950
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 10.02kg (22.09lb)
- Wheel Size: 700C
- Max Load: Unknown, but reportedly a “Heavy Load Capacity”
- Lights: ❌
- Fenders: ❌
- Pannier Rack: Optional Extra
- Flip Flop Hub: ✅
Whilst not the newest model, the Cinelli Tutto Plus is a classy and serious single-speed.
With a triple-butted Columbus steel frame, short wheelbase and aggressive geometry, it’s ideal for those who want a bike that’s suitable for both the track and the city. It’s also an excellent choice for messengers who want to zip across an urban environment.
There’s no doubt that it’s pricey for a single-speed, but if you’ve got the cash and the passion for cycling, an investment in a Cinelli bike is a good one.
Pros
- Explosive acceleration
- Beautiful paint scheme
- Ultimate fixed gear
- Made by a well established brand
Cons
- Expensive for a single-speed
- Not an easy bike for beginners to ride
- Somewhat outdated model
4. Elops City Bike 500
-
£249 -
$304 -
€283
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 11.6kg (25.6)
- Wheel Size: 700c
- Max Load: Unknown
- Lights: ✅
- Fenders: Optional Extra
- Pannier Rack: ❌
- Flip Flop Hub: ✅
By far the cheapest single-speed on the list, we couldn’t go without mentioning Decathlons answer to the single-speed.
A great first fixie or single-speed, it’s a perfect commuter for anyone on a particularly tight budget. Despite it’s ‘racier’ appearance, especially in the orange colourway, it’s a surprisingly comfortable ride.
It also comes with a flip-flop hub, meaning it can be used as a single-speed or as a fixed gear.
It’s an excellent choice if you’re keen to try a single-speed but don’t want to break the bank doing so.
Pros
- Very cheap
- Reasonably light
- Choice of colours
- Choice to ride single-speed or fixed gear
Cons
- Lower quality components than others on this list
- Limited choices for customisation
- 2 year warranty could be longer
5. Ride1UP Roadster V2
-
£877 -
$1,095 -
€1,019
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 14.97kg (33lb)
- Wheel Size: 700c x 28″
- Max Load: 136kg (300lb)
- Lights: ❌
- Fenders: ❌
- Pannier Rack: ❌
- Flip Flop Hub: ❌
An excellent choice for those wanting an e-bike in disguise, the Roadster V2 has a completely concealed battery and surprisingly quiet motor.
With a range of 20-30 miles, this class 3 pedelec can reach up to 24 mph with the pedal assist. This is all thanks to the 350w geared hub motor and 36v 7.0a Samsung 35 batteries. All the information you need is displayed on a sleek, minimalist display.
It’s a simple, fast and fun single-speed e-bike and you’d be hard pressed to find one as discreet.
Pros
- Nice colour options
- Discreet
- Surprisingly lightweight for an e-bike
- Great reviews
Cons
- Difficult to read the LCD display in bright conditions
- Struggles on steep hills
- Battery not designed to be easily or frequently removed
6. State Bicycle Co 4130
-
£439 -
$549 -
€450
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 10.66kg (23.5lb)
- Wheel Size: 700c
- Max Load: Unknown
- Lights: ❌
- Fenders: ❌
- Pannier Rack: ❌
- Flip Flop Hub: ✅
States 4130 is the ultimate in adventure for single-speeds. Thanks to its chunky tires (with clearance to accommodate up to 42c!), it’s perfect for navigating the city during the week and exploring the countryside on the weekend.
It’s sturdy over potholes, cobbled streets and poor road conditions.
An affordable and solid bike that can handle off-road conditions with ease, the 4130 is a versatile model that can satisfy most cycling needs.
Pros
- Good price
- Lightweight
- Improved upon design
- Extremely durable
Cons
- Single speed not always desirable for offroad
- Unpopular stock pedals
7. Brooklyn Wythe Fixie
-
£479 -
$599 -
€557
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 10.9-12.3kg (24-27lb)
- Wheel Size: 700c x 28″
- Max Load: Unknown
- Lights: Optional Extra
- Fenders: ❌
- Pannier Rack: Optional Extra
- Flip Flop Hub: ✅
A great bike at an affordable price, the Wythe from Brooklyn is an excellent choice for those who want to ride a single-speed predominantly as a fixie.
The Wythe’s a very durable bike, and with its lightweight cromoly frameset that’s rarely seen at this price point, it’s a great deal.
It’s really easy to swap between single-speed and fixed, thanks to the quick release brakes and flip flop hub.
The riser bars also give the rider a great upright position when navigating through the traffic.
Pros
- Very easy to swap between single-speed and fixed gear
- Stylish accentation in the colour scheme
- Puncture proof tires
Cons
- Limited colour options
- Cheaper bikes that are similar
- Can’t decide if it wants to be aggressive or comfortable
Best Single-Speed Bike Brands
Whilst we’ve included 7 of our favourite bikes, there’s a few other brands that deserve an honourable mention.
Renowned Italian brand Bianchi is known for its reliable components, their timeless style, and attention to detail.
All-City is another great brand, incorporating beautiful, classically designed frames into the modern world of cycling.
And, on the more affordable end of the scale, Golden Cycles are also putting out a range of fixies in a great array of colors that are guaranteed to turn heads.
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