As we transition from summer to autumn, it's the perfect time to explore how gear ratios can enhance your fixed gear bike experience. Fixed gear bikes, known as 'pisto' bikes in Japan, come without a gear-shifting mechanism, meaning you can't adjust the pedaling feel as you ride through different terrains or depending on your energy levels. This simplicity often surprises new riders post-purchase, changing their initial impressions significantly.

What people say before buying a fixed gear bike:

"Can you really ride up hills without gears?"

"Long distances must be impossible, right?"

Like many, I had the same doubts before getting to know these bikes. Whether you view the lack of gears as a limitation or a feature, I actually see it as a benefit.

This is what they say after actually buying one:

"It's fun to tweak the setup to match the terrain I ride."

"Once you get going, the fixed gear helps maintain speed with less effort, making it feel like you can easily go on forever."

"The fixed gears are easy to use and require almost no maintenance, so they're easy to use on a daily basis."

We get this a lot.

Many still view the single-speed setup negatively, but I believe it offers a profound depth that comes from balancing the rider's physical condition with their bike's configuration through trial and error. Is it too much to say single speed is the best of all? Haha.

Today, I'd like to talk a little about the fun of setting up a single speed.

The fun of setting up your gear ratio:

A bike's gear ratio is calculated by dividing the number of teeth on the front chainring by the number on the rear cog. This ratio determines how light or heavy the bike feels when pedaling. People often suggest that around 2.7 is a good ratio, providing a balance between ease of pedaling and speed.

The numbers written in blue on the chart are recommended.

Here's an easier way to understand it:

・Lighter Pedaling Feel: Ratios like 2.5 or 2.6 offer a lighter feel, ideal for quick acceleration rather than top speed.

・Heavier for Speed: Ratios above 3.5 are heavier, making hills challenging but helping gain speed more easily.

Imagine this in Mario Kart terms: Yoshi might run a 2.7, Mario a 2.8-3.0, and characters like Donkey Kong or Bowser above 3.3.

This is my personal experience with commuting from Gakugei-daigaku to Harajuku:

Komazawa Street is flat and enjoyable for a relaxed ride. Very pleasant in the morning.

BUT, the real challenge is Daikanyama—yes, it's literally a mountain.

After a pleasant descent on Yamate Street, a steep climb awaits.

Just when you think you've reached the top of one hill, another appears. It's SO HARD.

My gear ratio was fine-tuned to handle these variations.

While a ratio above 3.0 is great for flat routes like Komazawa Street, tackling Daikanyama requires about 2.7 to pedal uphill comfortably while seated.

A ratio of 2.8 might work, but considering the frequent traffic signals between Gakugei-daigaku and Harajuku, reaching top speed can be challenging. When selecting a gear ratio, consider the terrain's ups and downs and the spacing and number of traffic lights.

Advice for Your Setup:

Take a moment to reassess whether your bike's settings are suited to your usual routes. You might find that tweaking your gear ratio can be more impactful than changing your frame or wheels.

Lighter gear settings are recommended for those in hilly areas like Minato or Setagaya. On the other hand, if you live in the flatter parts of the city, you might try a heavier setup.

At BROTURES Harajuku, we stock popular gears from brands like SUGINO, DIGIRIT, and EURO-ASIA.

Feel free to call or email us to purchase or discuss further.

With the sunny days seeming endless, why not customize your gear ratio and discover a new riding experience?

We're always here to help with your gearing questions. Also, follow us on Instagram @brotures_global to stay updated. Let's make your ride uniquely yours.

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