[CR]Track vs. Fixed Gear, et al.

A point being confused here, is the difference between fixed gear bikes and track bikes. As Sheldon writes, http://sheldonbrown.com/fixed.html "many people think of fixed-gear bikes and track bikes as synonymous, but they aren't." More importantly for Classic Rendezvous members, there are collecting reasons not to get the two confused, a botched conversion of a track frame will reduce its value.

Just because there's one chainring, one cog, no freewheel doesn't make it a 'real' track bike. There's points of frame design that make a difference. Brake drilling, water bottle mounts, eyelets, chainstay length, fork rake, head and seat angles, bottom bracket drop, & tire clearances are detail differences between the two. Also equipment such as stem, bar, hub and gearing may be suited for the track, but very unpleasant for the road.

A very nice fixed gear bicycle can be made from a classic bike that would not warrant a full restoration. Also don't forget the British version, the "path racer". Again Sheldon has written the 'book' (OK, web page) on this: http://sheldonbrown.com/fixed-conversion.html My Frejus has the Campagnolo 1010 dropouts that he recommends, and even has his drop-bolt modification. It's a very comfortable bike, I use it on local bike club 'C' & "D' rides.

I'm thinking of taking beginning track lessons at Trexlertown this year. If all goes well, and I like it (and live), then I might get a track bike for summer track / winter roller riding. It'll be a used one, and maybe even semi-collectable, but definitely a 'track' bike.

Email me for more links and the address to the fixed gear list.

Roy "...my dog's fixed too" Drinkwater 44x18 (Oct-Apr) Lititz "56 miles to T-town", PA