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.

Like with mountain bikes, cruisers usually come in a complete package, but there are always ways they can be upgraded. Whether you have a Firmstrong urban Lady bike, a Firmstrong Urban Man, a Kaluna Beach Cruiser, or a custom beach cruiser, even if you like all the stock parts, eventually things may wear out and need replacing. Accessories and improvement parts like coaster brakes, higher quality balloon tires, lighter aluminum frames, alloy rims, comfy saddles can improve your ride. Consider these ways to enhance or restore your bike for the 2018 season before you hit the streets.

Saddles

Since cruisers are meant for leisure and comfort, it is important to have a saddle that performs well in these areas. Cruiser bikes usually place their riders in an upright seated position, so generally wider saddles are most appropriate to properly accommodate and distribute weight. These are some of the best options out there.

Schwinn Quilted Wide Cruiser Saddle – As a product of the legacy that is Schwinn, it should come as no surprise that they know how to make a comfortable seat. This saddle has a wide set seat to accommodate any size backside comfortably. It has enough padded material and added cushion from the quilted cover to be comfortable but also enough support that the compression from the rider’s body does not render the padding useless.

Sunlite Cloud-9 Bicycle Suspension Cruiser Saddle – Cloud-9 specializes in bicycle saddles that are made specifically for added comfort to any standard build. Since seats are their business you can be sure you are getting a saddle that has been thoughtfully designed and tested specifically for a comfortable ride, instead of a stock seat that may be an afterthought. This particular product is filled with dual-density gel foam padding that is forgiving and cushy, and it also sports a chrome coil spring suspension to absorb shock and further reduce the roughness of a ride. It distributes the rider’s weight perfectly without digging in anywhere undesirable, making it great for long leisurely rides.

Bikeroo Oversized Comfort Bike Seat – This oversized ergonomic seat is made for some serious comfort for men and women of all sizes. It is particularly good for heavier individuals who may be struggling with the stock seat that came with their cruiser, even though most cruiser bikes are designed for comfort in the first place. The thick padding and dual spring suspension of this saddle come highly rated by users who have tested it and been very satisfied. Many even report being able to ride up to four times longer with this seat than the one that they upgraded from. It has a universal fit, meaning it can be mounted on most bikes regardless of brand and can be installed in a matter of minutes so you can get back on the road quickly.

Handle Bar Grips

You likely bought your bike with the handlebar style that is most comfortable for you, but stock grips are not always the best and can wear out quickly. Switching them up to a quality set is an inexpensive way to enhance your experience and ensure you are riding in style and comfort.

Velo Vinyl Leather Grips – If you ride a single speed cruiser, then these are a perfect upgrade. The brown leather and contrasting stitch create an interesting vintage accent that would work really well with a matching saddle. These fit standard 7/8” handlebars and have plenty of cushion for guaranteed comfort.

Sunlite Cruiser Foam Grip 4 piece set – This set is perfect for drop, bullhorn, and pursuit style handlebars. It includes short grips for the flat position and long tubular pieces for the bulk of the bar. The soft foam is both durable and very comfortable, and they install easily with the help of some soapy water.

​Schwinn Tri-Layer Gel Comfort Grip – These ergonomically designed grips made by Schwinn include an extra gel layer to ensure the rider is greeted with a soft touch and comfort that can last long rides. The Kraton compound that they are composed of is highly durable so the set will last a long time. The palm pad area is specifically designed to dampen vibration and the all-over texturing provides a great level of traction. These should easily install on all standard 22.4 mm handlebars.

Fenders

Plenty of cruisers come with fenders already installed, but if yours did not then you should seriously consider installing a set. Fenders are a must-have in any environment that is not a desert in order to prevent splash back from wet roads and trails. If the manufacturer of your bike sells fenders separately, then it may be best to purchase a set from them, but there are also several generic brands that fit most standard cruisers.

Sunlite Cruiser Fenders, 26 x 2.125" – These black fenders install over most standard beach cruisers and the neutral coloring goes with just about any color scheme you may already have. It comes with all mounting brackets, braces, and hardware so the retrofit is easy for anyone no matter what their mechanical ability might be. As far as functional and stylish upgrades go, this is a great option for a minimal cost.

Cargo

Most cruisers do not come standard with ways to carry around your personal items. When you are riding around town you will definitely want somewhere convenient and cool to keep your things.

Colorbasket Mesh Bottom Lift-Off Bike Basket – This basket attaches quickly to the front of all standard cruisers and is big enough to hold a myriad of items. The bottom third is surrounded by fine mesh to keep smaller items from falling out. It comes in several colors to match or accent your bike’s color scheme.

JJBikes Universal 26" Steel Beach Cruiser Bicycle Rear Rack – A good cargo rack is extremely versatile for such a basic piece of hardware. This rack by J Bikes fits just about any 26” cruiser and installs in minutes. The heavy-gauge steel can handle whatever load you strap on and will keep it secure while you are riding around town.

Bike upgrades do not need to be complicated or expensive. It is amazing how little time and money it can take to enhance your ride in ways you may not have even considered.