Got any recomendations? I am planning on getting a fixed wheel bike in the coming weeks, initially for road use. The LBS mostly markets the 'specailised' brand.
The Langster is a well regarded bike, but they are also very common as a result. I went for the
Fuji Feather in black, and I'm really glad I did. Steel frame, traditional geometry and arguably slightly better components than the Langster, and very importantly, (for me at least), far more exclusive.
The standard bike is great, but for more own preference I've modified the stem and fitted oversized bars. I have standard drops with drop brake levers for road use, and standard drops with keirin grips for track use, that way I can remove the entire braking system in one go and without disconnecting the cables.
I've also got a Stronglight crank and 15T sprocket for the track, but the stock 44:16 gearing goes back on for general road use.
FWIW all bikes from
Evans are supplied with two brakes, and a bike with a flip flop rear hub like the Fuji and the Langster will be supplied set up as a single speed. I think you can sign a disclaimer and they will supply it set up fixed, but otherwise it will be SS. Evans will order any bike in for you for a £50 refundable deposit too. Then if you don't like it for any reason you get your deposit back and walk away, or order something else. You can also have a good test ride with Evans as well.