Cheap Fixed-Gear Bikes: 6 of the Best Budget Fixies

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Fixed-gear bicycles (fixies) are more popular than ever. They’re quickly becoming one of the most beloved urban bikes and their unique, retro aesthetic makes them stand out on the road. Fixies are about more than just style, though. 

They provide a ride quality like no other and can even make you a better cyclist. Many people also prefer fixies for their simplicity, which makes them great bikes for beginners who just want to get on the road without any complications. Their stripped-back nature makes them lighter and considerably faster than other bikes.

While some fixed-gear bikes are undoubtedly expensive, there’s no need to spend a fortune on one. In fact, a cheap fixie not only represents value for money but usually offers a purer riding experience – which is why cyclists prefer these bikes in the first place!

Read on as we explore the most competitively priced fixed-gear bicycles to suit any budget.

How Expensive Are Fixed-Gear Bikes?

Fixed-gear bikes range from extremely expensive, high-end models (these can cost several thousand dollars) to cheaper, budget models and even cheaper, second-hand fixies. That said, the average price of a fixed-gear bike is around $350.

 Of course, you get what you pay for. A basic fixed-gear bike should be cheap, but as you climb through the price brackets you gain additional features and more tech. This might include app functionality and coverage like theft insurance. Specific types of fixies are also more expensive. For example, the average price of a track fixie is around $600 and the price of a fixed-gear mountain bike is closer to $1000. 

Many cyclists, though, simply prefer cheaper fixed-gear bicycles because they’re truer to the fixie lifestyle of minimalism and simplicity. Unless you want something specialised, there really isn’t any need to spend big on a fixed-gear bike. It’s also worth noting that fixed-gear bicycles are much cheaper to maintain than standard road bikes.

SOURCE: Unsplash.com

Why Are Fixies So Cheap?

Fixies are so cheap because they contain fewer parts than other bicycles! Fixed-gear bikes don’t have freewheel mechanisms and many don’t have brakes. They’re scaled back elsewhere too, usually lacking front and rear racks.

You’ll often find that fixed-gear bike manufacturers make every effort to strip as many components from their bikes as possible – it sometimes feels as though you’re just buying a frame and wheels! Of course, this means drastically lower production costs and keeps the retail price of fixies substantially lower than other kinds of bikes.

Although you can buy more technologically advanced fixies, you’ll rarely see bikes that include things like GPS tracking, which push the price up. Fixed-gear bicycles have largely been immune to the slow march of technology, further increasing their retro appeal. 

The focus on a beautiful aesthetic and minimalistic design makes fixies one of the cheapest types of bike that you’ll find anywhere. It’s also why they make such great starter bikes for people on a tight budget. 

Best Fixie under £/$500

Let’s take a look at some of the best and cheapest fixies on the market. 

Price (approximate):

• 🇬🇧 £ 330
• 🇺🇸 $ 399
• 🇪🇺 € 399

✅ Classic retro style.

✅ No-tool assembly.

✅ Choose fixed gear or freewheel.

Rigby absolutely nails the retro aesthetic that makes fixies so desirable. With its navy blue frame, leather seat and creme trim, this bike certainly fits the bill. Much more than just looks, though, the State Bicycle features a tough steel frame that’s also lightweight and extremely agile. It’s the perfect choice for zipping through commuter traffic on a budget. The build is fully customisable, too.

PROSCONSVintage looks.Not track ready.Fixed gear or freewheel.Assembly instructions can be confusing.Quality steel frame.Standard saddle isn’t the comfiest.

Price (approximate):

• 🇬🇧 £ 330
• 🇺🇸 $ 399
• 🇪🇺 € 399

✅ Sleek, more modern design.

✅ Extremely lightweight.

✅ Streamlined saddle.

The Whaler II brings with it true Californian, hippy vibes. Its styling mixes old and new, and its functionality does too. Not a true fixie in the purest sense, this bike comes with front and rear brakes (something that we appreciated!). There’s also an eyelet to store a drink on the move and the flip-flop hub allows riders to easily switch between single-speed and fixed gear.

PROSCONSBuilt for speed.Not designed for offroading.Lots of frame sizes.Not suited to the track.Water bottle holder.Only 30 days warranty.

Price (approximate):

• 🇬🇧 £ 409
• 🇺🇸 $ 500
• 🇪🇺 € 500

✅ Free shipping.

✅ Synthetic leather saddle.

✅ More comfortable riding position.

It’s not the cheapest on the list, but the Shelby 4 still represents excellent value for money because it’s such a quality bike. A slightly tweaked frame geometry offers a more comfortable sitting position and gives the bike its elegant look. It comes with rear/front brakes and the frame is crafted from high-tensile steel. Designed for city living, this fixie is perfect for commuters.

PROSCONSHas front/back brakes.Only three sizes.Designed for the city.On the expensive side.Comfortable riding position.More complex assembly.

Price (approximate):

• 🇬🇧 £ 350
• 🇺🇸 $ 425
• 🇪🇺 € 425

✅ Handlebar and strap customisable.

✅ Unique design.

✅ Customisable build.

With its stark black and white looks, the Fabricbike is one of the most striking fixies that you’ll see and also one of the most modern looking. With its low price, it makes an ideal entry point into the world of cycling and is nicely customisable. A fixed gear cog and freewheel sprocket mean that you can opt for a riding style of your choice.

PROSCONSFront and rear brakes.Not one for “purists.”Flip-flop rear wheel.Designed only for urban cycling.Steel frame.Lacks the fixie retro aesthetic.

Price (approximate):

• 🇬🇧 £ 480
• 🇺🇸 $ 580
• 🇪🇺 € 580

✅ Coaster brake included.

✅ More features than standard fixie.

✅ High build quality.

The Ellison is the bike to go for if you like your fixies a little less minimalistic. It comes with front and rear racks, brakes and the option for gears. This, of course, all means more weight, but it’s undoubtedly more convenient than a totally stripped-back, basic model. Despite these embellishments, it preserves the beloved spirit of the fixie with retro stylings and agile handling.

PROSCONSPremium frame.One of the more expensive.Front and back racks.Rigid suspension.Unique stylings.Quite heavy.

Best Fixie under £/$300

Price (approximate):

• 🇬🇧 £250
• 🇺🇸 $299
• 🇪🇺 €270

✅ Excellent budget option.

✅ Lightweight and stable.

✅ Streamlined for speed.

This is the cheapest fixie on the list and it’s the perfect budget bike! Available in three colours, it’s extremely lightweight, which means that it also ranks highly for agility – perfect for urban living. The Elops is fast too and will give you a genuinely exhilarating ride if you want one. Stability is also excellent with good, grippy pedals and narrow handlebars for directional control.

PROSCONSLow price.Basic design.Flip-flop hub.No customisation options.Very agile.Only three sizes.