Fixed gear bikes, or fixies, are simple single-speed bicycles, but there are many ways they can be customized and upgraded. Often, beginners will purchase cheap fixies to start off with but as they advance in their skills and learn their preferences they will start upgrading. Modifications can range in price and difficulty but there are plenty of options out there for everyone. Flip-flop hubs, improved pedal turning ratios, better disc brakes and chain tensioners, and rear hubs are just some of the ways you can transform cheap fixie bikes.

Pedals

Pedals are an easy place to start if you want to modify the functionality of your bike without messing with any of the major mechanics. For added performance in BMX and mountain bikes, EagleRiding makes an affordable set of pedals that are non-slip and as dependable as notable brands that sell for twice as much. They also come in several colors to compliment or accent your current color scheme. Depending on the situation, one may desire some extra security to keep feet on the pedals.

Though there are plenty of cheap straps that can be added to existing pedals, these can slip and become unattached. A set of pedals with a built-in strap like the Retrospec Bicycles BMX-Style platform pedal is a preferable option that does not cost much more than retrofitted straps. The Velcro is heavy duty enough to withstand any amount of force the rider might put on it but does not trap the foot, making it a safe option for any environment.

Saddles

Comfort is often a concern for bike riders, whether they are newbies or have been doing it for years. Often the stock saddle that comes with a bike is not the most comfortable or it becomes less so over time due to wear. As you ride more often and longer your sitting style may even change. Therefore, it is important to have a saddle that you are comfortable with. For beginners or those with more sensitive backsides, try the ProVelo Most Comfortable Bike Seat. This is a heavily padded seat with memory foam that is covered by leather for breathability. There are also shock absorbers to further reduce the impact to one’s backside. The wide seat accommodates riders of all sizes and ensures maximum comfort. There is even a battery-powered taillight in the back for riding at dusk and in the evenings.

If you are looking for something flashy that will accent your color scheme,  Retrospec Bicycles Urban/Fixed Gear Saddle comes in many bright accent colors. This particular saddle is reviewed well for its comfort, though it is not overly padded so it is better for riders who are looking for support. The price point is also very agreeable so if you try it and do not like it you have not broken the bank to do so.

Experienced riders looking for a sleeker design might be more interested in the Origin8 Pro Uni-S Saddle. This is a more streamlined saddle in a classic road shape. There is enough gel foam material inside to provide decent padding and its stylish timeless look cannot be beaten. This particular seat is highly recommended for both its comfort and longevity. Since having a sore backside can be a major deterrence to riding, it is important to get a saddle on your bike that will remedy and prevent that condition.

Handlebars

The type of handlebar you use depends on both style and comfort. There are three main styles that are found on most fixie bikes, flat/riser, bullhorn, and drop bars, with pursuit bars being a modified version of the bullhorn. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages.

• Riser: Allows for more of an upright position and better handling response, but only allows for one grip position. Origin8’s Urban-Pro Riser Handlebar comes in several color choices and is made of aluminum alloy in order to add minimal weight to your bike.

• Bullhorn: Allows for multiple hand positions and extending one’s reach to have better leverage when climbing hills and sprinting, but not as wide as risers and brake configuration can be tricky. The Pure Fix 42 cm Alloy Bull Horn Handlebar is a great option for those who are interested in this style.

• Drop: Greatest number of available hand and riding positions, decreased handling ability, and not good for off-road riding due to stress on wrists. Since another major benefit of using a drop bar is the inherent style, try one of the colorful options by Vilano.

There are a plethora of choices in grips and tape out there, and most are very low cost, so feel free to experiment to figure out what is most comfortable for you.

Wheels

If you are looking to swap out your wheels there are plenty of options out there ranging in cost and style. Pure Cycles makes dependable products at affordable price points, such as this Pure Fix 700C 40 mm Wheelset. These can easily be swapped onto most frames and you can choose either a standout accent color or something muted to let your frame shine. The double-walled aluminum is lightweight and the set comes with a flip-flop hub with pre-attached standard 16T fixed and freewheel cogs.

For a serious upgrade to your stock wheels consider the SunRise Bike Carbon Fixed Gear Bike Wheelset. These definitely make a statement in their styling but when you start riding with them you will quickly see their value. Since these are made of carbon fiber-Toray T700, a big step up from aluminum alloy, this wheelset is made for performance and efficiency. Though carbon fiber wheels are pricier than their aluminum alloy counterparts, these wheels are built to be stronger, more durable, aerodynamic, and lightweight as well. If you really want to upgrade your fixie look no further.

The ways in which you can customize and upgrade your fixed gear bike are limited only by your imagination and wallet. Even if cost is a factor, there are plenty of inexpensive upgrades that can massively improve the styling and performance of a Fixie. Feel free to experiment and play around with the options until you have created the bike of your dreams.