been reading threads on FIXED GEAR bikes

I am intrigued :rolleyes: with FIXED GEAR bikes and pondering :eek: if I should build one with an old Bianchi frame or buy one "off the shelf", or abandon the whole idea. :confused:

So, my question: For those women who ride fixies, what do you ride (bike type), why do you ride it (commute, fitness, fun, etc.), and where do you ride it (road, mt., etc.). :confused: :confused: :)

OH, and what gearing for what terrain? I live in Central VA and it goes from rolly to hilly to mountains (thinking I would AVOID mountains on a fixie!;) ), but would probably need a low gear ratio for rolly to hilly -- if I even went this route.

ANY insight would be appreciated ... I am "fixed on the fixie idea" because I have this old Bianchi steel frame hanging in my basement -- seems a waste just "hanging around". :(

Since I don't have a Bianchi frame hanging around, I bought a complete bike. I ride a Surley Steamroller. I had it built up with a flip flop hub, but have yet to use the freewheel side in over a year of riding. I ride it to work most days, round town for errands, round the county for fitness and on dirt roads & easy trails just for fun.

As for gearing, I initially went with 39:17 ~60 gear inches, which was low enough to get up the hills on my usual training rides without too much extra work with the added benefit of forcing a faster and, eventually, smoother, cadence. I've since gone to 39:15 ~69 gear inches. Gear choice is a compromise between your normal flat gear, climbing gear and descending. A higher gear may be generally better for flats & descents, but a lower gear will be better for climbing and developing a smooth cadence.

If you're going to build up your Bianchi frame, make sure to consult the guru, Sheldon Brown

For conversion inspiration, take a look at www.fixedgeargallery.com