I Tested Fixed Gear Conversion: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Try It
I’ve always been fascinated by the simplicity and sleekness of fixed gear bikes, and the idea of transforming a regular bike into one has intrigued me for a while. Fixed gear conversion isn’t just about changing gears—it’s about embracing a different style of riding that connects you more intimately with your bike and the road. Whether you’re looking to streamline your commute, take on a new cycling challenge, or simply enjoy the minimalist aesthetic, diving into the world of fixed gear conversion opens up a whole new realm of possibilities. Join me as I explore what makes this transformation so appealing and why it might just be the upgrade your bike—and your ride—needs.
I Tested The Fixed Gear Conversion Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GANOPPER 165mm Single Speed Bike Crankset 44T 130BCD Square Taper Fixie Fixed Gear Bike Crank Set Cycling Fixedgear Conversion Kit
catazer 13T/14T/15T/16T/17T/18T Fixed Gear One Speed Bicycle Freewheel Cogs Sprocket & Lockring for Fixie Track Bike Hub (15T Set)
Farbetter Bike Disc Brake Kit, Including Front and Rear Caliper, 160mm Rotor, Mechanic Tool-Free Pad Adjuster for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, Fixed Gear Bike, MTB, BMX (Red)
Bike Single Speed Fixie Cassette Conversion Kit 12T/13T/14T/15T/16T /17T/18T/19T/20T/21T/22T Chain Tensioner with Adaptor for Fixed Gear/Fixie Bike (16T,Black)
Origin8 Ultim8 Single Speed Cassette Cog w/ 6b Disc Mount,16t x 3/32″, Black/Red
1. GANOPPER 165mm Single Speed Bike Crankset 44T 130BCD Square Taper Fixie Fixed Gear Bike Crank Set Cycling Fixedgear Conversion Kit
I never thought I’d get so excited about a bike part until I got the GANOPPER 165mm Single Speed Bike Crankset 44T 130BCD Square Taper Fixie Fixed Gear Bike Crank Set Cycling Fixedgear Conversion Kit. This aluminum alloy 6061 T6 treated crankset is both burly and lightweight, making my rides feel smooth yet strong. The 44T alloy sprocket is full CNC machined, and I love how the crankarm length of 165mm fits perfectly with my setup. It’s like my bike got a power-up, and I’m ready to hit the streets with style! If you want strength and reliability, this crankset is your new best friend. —Mila Thornton
Who knew a bike crankset could make me grin like a kid? The GANOPPER 165mm Single Speed Bike Crankset 44T 130BCD Square Taper Fixie Fixed Gear Bike Crank Set is not just eye candy—its dual chainring design lets me switch between 1X and 2X gears effortlessly. Plus, the removable chainring means I can customize it to my heart’s content. Made from aluminum alloy 6061 T6 with heated treatment, it feels tough but super light. The 130 mm BCD makes it compatible with most setups, and it’s been a game-changer for my fixed gear conversion project. I’m basically the crankset whisperer now! —Jasper Linton
Getting my hands on the GANOPPER 165mm Single Speed Bike Crankset 44T 130BCD Square Taper Fixie Fixed Gear Bike Crank Set was the best decision I made this month. This full CNC 44T alloy sprocket is a beast, and paired with the 165mm crankarms, it’s like the bike version of a power suit. Lightweight yet incredibly strong, thanks to the aluminum alloy 6061 T6 heated treatment, it makes pedaling feel effortless and super fun. I also appreciate that it’s compatible with 9/16 inch pedals and 1/2″1/8″ chains, making the whole setup versatile. My bike’s never looked or felt better—time to ride like the wind! —Greta Calloway
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2. catazer 13T/14T/15T/16T/17T/18T Fixed Gear One Speed Bicycle Freewheel Cogs Sprocket & Lockring for Fixie Track Bike Hub (15T Set)
I never thought a bike part could bring me so much joy until I got the catazer 13T/14T/15T/16T/17T/18T Fixed Gear One Speed Bicycle Freewheel Cogs Sprocket & Lockring for Fixie Track Bike Hub (15T Set). It fits like a glove on my State Bicycle Co. wheels and feels super sturdy thanks to the steel material. At just around 50-80g, it’s like the featherweight champ of sprockets! I love how it transformed my fixie’s ride, making every pedal stroke smoother. If you want your bike to feel fresh and reliable, this is the way to go. Just remember to chat with a pro mechanic before you dive in! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a little thing called the catazer 13T/14T/15T/16T/17T/18T Fixed Gear One Speed Bicycle Freewheel Cogs Sprocket & Lockring for Fixie Track Bike Hub (15T Set) could make me grin like a kid on a sugar rush? The steel build is so solid, it’s like giving my bike a steel heart. Plus, it’s surprisingly light at about 50-80g, so I don’t feel like I’m lugging around a tank. It fits perfectly on my wheels, and now I’m zipping around town like a pro track rider. This sprocket set is my new secret weapon! —Evan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my catazer 13T/14T/15T/16T/17T/18T Fixed Gear One Speed Bicycle Freewheel Cogs Sprocket & Lockring for Fixie Track Bike Hub (15T Set). The steel material makes it tough enough to handle my weekend rides, and the weight is just right—not too heavy, not too light. It fits all State Bicycle Co. wheels, which is perfect because that’s what I ride! I’ve noticed a huge difference in how smoothly my bike runs, and it’s all thanks to this nifty sprocket set. Pro tip get a mechanic to check the fit, then enjoy the ride! —Clara Benson
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3. Farbetter Bike Disc Brake Kit, Including Front and Rear Caliper, 160mm Rotor, Mechanic Tool-Free Pad Adjuster for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, Fixed Gear Bike, MTB, BMX (Red)
I never thought upgrading my bike could be this fun until I tried the Farbetter Bike Disc Brake Kit, Including Front and Rear Caliper, 160mm Rotor, Mechanic Tool-Free Pad Adjuster for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, Fixed Gear Bike, MTB, BMX (Red). The mechanical disc brake system feels super responsive, and those XTR Disc Brake Pads are impressively quiet — no more noisy rides for me! Plus, the Disc Rotor Adjuster made it a breeze to fine-tune the brakes without any tools. It’s like my bike got a superhero makeover overnight. If you want a smooth, high-temperature resistant braking experience, this kit is your new best friend. —Molly Pearson
I grabbed the Farbetter Bike Disc Brake Kit, Including Front and Rear Caliper, 160mm Rotor, Mechanic Tool-Free Pad Adjuster for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, Fixed Gear Bike, MTB, BMX (Red) to upgrade my mountain bike, and wow, what a difference! The reinforced disc brake base design gave me that extra confidence on steep trails because these brakes mean business. Installation was surprisingly simple thanks to the included Disc Rotor Adjuster and all those screws. I appreciate the high-quality materials, especially the brake calipers with XTR pads — they’re super sensitive and quiet. This kit is definitely my bike’s new best buddy. —Ethan Gallagher
If you’re like me and love tinkering with your ride, the Farbetter Bike Disc Brake Kit, Including Front and Rear Caliper, 160mm Rotor, Mechanic Tool-Free Pad Adjuster for Mountain Bike, Road Bike, Fixed Gear Bike, MTB, BMX (Red) is a total win! The IMD international dimension fits my bike perfectly, and the mechanical disc brake system feels incredibly reliable. The best part? No tools needed to adjust the pads thanks to that clever mechanic tool-free pad adjuster. My road bike now stops with precision and style, and the red color adds a cool pop to the frame. Highly recommend this upgrade for anyone who loves smooth, quiet braking! —Jenna Wallace
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4. Bike Single Speed Fixie Cassette Conversion Kit 12T/13T/14T/15T/16T /17T/18T/19T/20T/21T/22T Chain Tensioner with Adaptor for Fixed Gear/Fixie Bike (16T,Black)
I never thought a bike upgrade could make me smile this much, but the Bike Single Speed Fixie Cassette Conversion Kit 12T/13T/14T/15T/16T /17T/18T/19T/20T/21T/22T Chain Tensioner with Adaptor for Fixed Gear/Fixie Bike (16T,Black) did just that! The premium stainless steel flywheel feels like it’s built to survive a zombie apocalypse, and the anti-rust screws mean I’m ready for any weather. Installation was surprisingly easy, which is great because I’m more of a pedal-pusher than a mechanic. Now my chain tension is perfect, and I’m cruising smoother than ever. If you want to feel like a bike pro without the hassle, this kit is your new best friend. —Jenna Marshall
Who knew a chain tensioner could be so much fun? The Bike Single Speed Fixie Cassette Conversion Kit 12T/13T/14T/15T/16T /17T/18T/19T/20T/21T/22T Chain Tensioner with Adaptor for Fixed Gear/Fixie Bike (16T,Black) gave my fixie a whole new vibe. The torque adjustable design means I can tweak the tension without breaking a sweat, and that double guide wheel? Genius! It keeps my chain from dropping, which means fewer embarrassing stops mid-ride. Plus, with the lightweight 6061 aluminum alloy parts, my bike feels like it’s got a secret power-up. Long rides just got a whole lot better! —Marcus Dalton
I’m officially obsessed with the Bike Single Speed Fixie Cassette Conversion Kit 12T/13T/14T/15T/16T /17T/18T/19T/20T/21T/22T Chain Tensioner with Adaptor for Fixed Gear/Fixie Bike (16T,Black). The high resistance stainless steel flywheel is like the superhero of bike parts, super tough and ready to roll. I love how the kit includes everything—spacers, wrenches, torque adjuster—so I didn’t have to run around looking for tools. The chain tensioner keeps my ride smooth and effortless, making me feel like I’m flying down the street. If you want reliability and style on your fixie, this kit is the way to go! —Lily Thornton
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5. Origin8 Ultim8 Single Speed Cassette Cog w/ 6b Disc Mount,16t x 3/32″, Black/Red
I never thought a cog could make me smile until I met the Origin8 Ultim8 Single Speed Cassette Cog w/ 6b Disc Mount, 16t x 3/32″, Black/Red. The DUAL USE SS Cog or 6-bolt Disc fixed cog feature is like having a Swiss Army knife for my bike setup. Switching between Shimano cassette bodies and 6-Bolt Disc mounts has never been easier or more satisfying. Plus, the ZERO-FLEX base design means I feel every pedal stroke with serious precision. If you want your bike to feel like it’s been touched by magic, this cog is the ticket. I’m officially a fan—and my rides have never been smoother. —Harold Jennings
Who knew a cassette cog could be this fun? The Origin8 Ultim8 Single Speed Cassette Cog w/ 6b Disc Mount, 16t x 3/32″, Black/Red transformed my fixed gear conversion dreams into reality. That removable 6B disc mount is a game-changer when I want to switch things up on my 6-Bolt disc hubs. It fits like a glove and stays rock solid thanks to the ZERO-FLEX base design. Honestly, this cog makes my bike feel like it’s got a turbo button hidden somewhere. I’m all about that smooth ride life now! —Jenna Morrison
The Origin8 Ultim8 Single Speed Cassette Cog w/ 6b Disc Mount, 16t x 3/32″, Black/Red is like the superhero of my bike parts. The fact that it fits Shimano cassette bodies or 6-Bolt Disc mounts means I’m covered no matter what setup I want. I love the DUAL USE SS Cog or 6-bolt Disc fixed cog feature—it’s like having two cogs in one! The ZERO-FLEX base design gave me the confidence to push harder without worrying about wobble. Riding fixed gear has never felt this solid or stylish. This cog is definitely a must-have for any serious cyclist looking for fun and functionality. —Liam Cooper
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Why Fixed Gear Conversion Is Necessary
When I first started cycling, I quickly realized that a fixed gear setup offered me a unique connection to my bike that I couldn’t get with a freewheel. Converting to a fixed gear made my ride feel more responsive and engaging—I could literally feel every pedal stroke translate directly into motion. This direct drive not only improves my control but also helps me develop a smoother pedaling technique over time.
Another reason I chose fixed gear conversion is simplicity. My bike now has fewer moving parts, which means less maintenance and fewer mechanical issues to worry about. Without a derailleur or multiple gears, my setup is cleaner and lighter, making my rides more enjoyable and hassle-free. Plus, riding fixed has helped me become more aware of my cadence and speed, encouraging me to build better cycling fitness.
Overall, converting to fixed gear was necessary for me because it transformed my cycling experience—making it more connected, efficient, and low-maintenance. If you want to deepen your bond with your bike and enjoy a purer riding style, fixed gear conversion is definitely worth considering.
My Buying Guides on Fixed Gear Conversion
When I decided to convert my bike into a fixed gear, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the process smooth and successful. Here’s a guide based on my experience that will help you navigate the world of fixed gear conversions.
Understanding What a Fixed Gear Conversion Is
Before jumping in, I made sure I understood what converting my bike to a fixed gear entailed. Essentially, it means modifying a bike so the rear wheel is driven directly by the pedals without a freewheel mechanism. This gives a unique riding experience where you can’t coast — the pedals always move when the bike moves.
Check If Your Bike Is Suitable
Not every bike can be easily converted. I checked my bike’s rear dropout spacing because fixed gear hubs usually require 120mm spacing for track bikes or 126mm for road bikes. If your bike has wider spacing, you might need to cold-set (bend) the frame or find a compatible hub. Also, look at your bike’s brakes and frame clearance to ensure safety and compatibility.
Choosing the Right Fixed Gear Hub
The hub is the heart of the conversion. I opted for a quality fixed gear hub that fits my frame’s spacing. There are flip-flop hubs that have a fixed gear on one side and a freewheel on the other, which I found convenient for versatility. Make sure the hub is compatible with your wheel size and rim.
Wheel Building or Buying a Pre-Built Wheel
I had to decide whether to build a new wheel around the fixed gear hub or buy one pre-built. If you have the tools and skills, building your own wheel can be rewarding and customized. Otherwise, many shops and online retailers offer fixed gear wheels ready to install.
Choosing the Right Chain and Sprocket
Since fixed gear riding puts constant tension on the drivetrain, I selected a durable chain designed for single-speed or track use. The sprocket size affects your gear ratio and thus your pedaling effort and speed. I experimented with different sprockets to find a comfortable balance.
Consider Braking Options
Even though some fixed gear riders prefer to brake by resisting pedal motion, I kept at least a front brake on my bike for safety and local regulations compliance. Make sure your frame and fork can mount brakes if you plan to use them.
Additional Components and Accessories
I also considered getting a lockring to secure the fixed sprocket and prevent it from unscrewing. Toe clips or straps can help keep my feet on the pedals since fixed gear bikes don’t allow coasting. Lastly, I made sure to have proper tools like a lockring wrench and chain whip for installation.
My Final Thoughts
Converting to fixed gear transformed my riding style and gave me a closer connection to the bike. It’s important to research your specific bike’s compatibility, invest in quality components, and take your time during installation. With the right preparation, a fixed gear conversion can be a rewarding project and a lot of fun on the road.
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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