In the latest issue of Vintage Bicycle Quarterly, the article on page 4-5
about Frank Pearne's San Franciso to LA riding a fixed gear, without brakes!!
He tells about how his chain broke on a downhill and only a bailout jump
saved his life. I think that is enough to convince me that a brake is good.
Also, he mentions that he raced in 88 and 92 gear inches but rode 77 on the
SF to LA ride and almost wore himself out. I love the way he talks about
pulling up on his toe straps and skidding the rear wheel to slow on the San
Marcos pass going into Santa Barbara. Anyway, it was a good read,
particularly after all these posts about fixed gears. And, hats off to Jan
for another great VBQ issue. Thanks Jan. Lou Deeter, Orlando FL