Best Fixie Wheels for Your Fixed Gear Bike: 2018 Reviews
Like with mountain bikes, the fixie community has grown tremendously over the past few years. Before it took off those of us who wanted a good set of front and rear wheels would usually have to build them ourselves if we wanted to avoid paying a large amount of money. While there is a sense of pride that comes with doing the research to find the best hubs, spokes, and rims and them building your own custom set-up, the growth of fixie biking means that there are now a lot of great and affordable fixed gear wheelsets to be found online. Fixies are already fairly simple machines but taking this extra step out of the assembly process means it is that much easier and quicker to get going on your new bike.
The composition of fixie wheels tends to be fairly standard. They are usually 700C in size and made up of the fixed rear hub, lock ring, cogs, and spokes. Most wheelsets feature flip-flop hubs which have a fixed gear on one side and a freewheel gear on the other, to allow for coasting. The primary difference in wheelsets tends to be material and design, both for aesthetics and functionality.
Retrospec Bicycles Mantra Fixed-Gear/Single-Speed Wheelset with 700x25C Kenda Kwest Tires
For the beginner fixed gear biker, this wheelset is a decent introductory option, both in price and quality. Unlike many sets, this one includes tires, which are made by Kenda Kwest and well suited to urban street environments. They install quickly and include a flip-flop hub so you can ride fixed or free depending on preference. These also come in a multitude of colors to match whatever frame and aesthetic you may be going for.
Vuelta ZeroLite Track Comp 700C Wheel Set
Vuelta is a respected brand in wheels and the ZeroLite Track Comp 700C wheelset is no exception to their high-quality standards. At weights of 1007 g for the front wheel and 1144 g for the back, this is alight set that will barely add any noticeable difference to your frame. This set will help reduce effort expenditure and increase speed when paired with the right tires. The rims are 30 mm with a medium depth v and aluminum alloy pinned clincher rims with CNC sides. The hub is flip-flop with a one-speed freewheel that can be easily adjusted. This handmade set holds up very well and is a great option for the average fixie rider.
Pure Fix 650C 45 mm Micro Wheelset
Pure Cycles make a lot of fixie bikes and components. Most fixies use 700C wheels but if your frame is smaller due to personal size or retrofitting then you may need smaller wheels, such as this 650C set. When going outside of standard sizing it is important to stick with a trusted brand such as Pure Cycles to ensure the same great performance. The almost-standard flip-flop hub is also found in this wheelset, with a pre-attached 16T fixed and 16T freewheel cogs. The rims are super deep and made of double-walled aluminum, with a single accent spoke color to add some style. This particular set comes in three colors (black, orange, and white), which will work with most bike color schemes. If using on a bike frame that is not specifically made for 650C you may have some trouble running brakes, so be sure to check the compatibility first.
Solomone Cavalli SC Fixed Gear 700c Tri Spoke 5-Spoke Rim Fixie Bicycle Wheel Set
If style is your first priority and weight is not a concern, consider the five or 3-spoke wheelsets from Solomone Cavalli. These are sure to get you noticed wherever you go due to the minimal spoke design. Since a few spokes are replacing 20+ these wheels are a bit heavier than the standard alternatives but once you get them rolling the momentum cannot be beaten. These are 700C and made of a magnesium alloy. The flip-flop hub only comes with a fixed gear, but a freewheel cog can be purchased separately and added onto the threaded other side of the hub. The front and back wheels are sold both separately and as a set, and the three-spoke design also comes in white. Reviewers who have purchased this set consistently compliment the smooth ride and durability.
State Bicycle Co Lo Pro Classic Fixed Gear + Freewheel Wheelset
Sometimes, flashiness is not desired. Performance does not always have to be packaged with an attention-grabbing exterior, and if that sounds appealing to you, then check out State Bicycle’s low profile wheelset. The lightweight aluminum alloy wheels are both classic and understated, allowing your choice of frame to really pop. As with most fixie wheelsets this comes with a flip-flop hub with both the fixed and freewheel cogs included. Though this is a more pricey option, State Bicycle Co. is a well trusted brand that is known to make products that last for many miles over varied terrain. This is actually one of the most sought-after products made by State Bicycle Co., so anyone who purchases and uses this set can rest assured that it has been well tested all over.
The wheels you choose to use on your fixed gear bike can make a big difference in how they work and ride. It is important to get a wheelset that not only fits your aesthetics but also the functionality you are going for. Most wheelsets are sold without tires, but these can be easily purchased and installed once you know what wheels you need and what the application will be. There are even colored tire options if that is something you are interested in. No matter which design you choose, be sure to purchase your wheelset from a trusted manufacturer. If you have any trouble with installation or even picking a set your local bike shop can be a great help. You might also consider one of the many online forums or a local meet-up group for advice as well, but we think the sets we’ve highlighted here are a great place to start.
