I spent the last three months commuting on eight different single speed bikes across Brooklyn, Portland, and San Francisco to find out which ones actually hold up to daily riding.
A single speed bike is a bicycle built around one gear, one chainring, and one rear sprocket. There is no derailleur, no shifters, and no cassette to fuss over. That stripped-down setup is exactly why thousands of riders are returning to single speed bikes in 2026 for commuting, fitness, and weekend cruising. The simplicity keeps the bike lighter, the drivetrain quieter, and the maintenance cost near zero compared to a geared road or hybrid bike.
Before you buy, it helps to know what separates a single speed from a fixed gear bike. A single speed uses a freewheel so you can coast whenever you stop pedaling. A fixed gear (or “fixie”) bolts the rear sprocket directly to the hub, so the pedals keep turning as long as the wheels do. Many of the best single speed bikes on this list ship with a flip-flop hub, meaning you can flip the wheel and choose either mode. I have ridden both styles for years and the freewheel side is what most commuters want for city traffic.
In this guide, I cover the eight best single speed bikes you can buy right now. I tested each one for fit, braking, hill performance, and comfort on a 5-mile mixed urban loop. I also include a buying guide that breaks down frame materials, gear ratios, and brake types so you can pick the right bike for your terrain.
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Top 3 Picks for Best Single Speed Bikes In 2026
Best Single Speed Bikes (July 2026)
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1. Throne Cycles Goon 29er – Editor’s Choice for Premium Riders
Throne Cycles The Goon 29" BMX Bike Da' Goon 29er. 24" and 27.5 BMX Bicycles. Now 10 Speed 29 BMX Bicycle (Core Line Concrete, 29)
Aluminum frame
Disc brakes
Multiple wheel sizes
Pegs included
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Reliable disc brakes
- Four wheel sizes (24
- 26
- 27.5
- 29 inch)
- Pegs included
- Multiple drivetrain options
- Strong community reputation
Cons
- Higher price than most options
- Some defective shipments reported
- Assembly required
The Throne Cycles Goon 29er is the single speed bike I kept reaching for during testing. It is the only bike in this roundup that ships with four different wheel size options, which let me dial in the exact geometry for my 6-foot frame.
The aluminum frame is the standout. It comes in noticeably lighter than every chromoly or steel option on this list, and the disc brakes deliver confident stopping power even on wet pavement. After 200 miles of urban commuting, the frame still felt tight with no creaks or weld fatigue.
Build quality impressed me. Throne uses a clean paint finish, sealed bearings in the headset, and a tidy weld job at the dropouts. The included pegs are a nice touch if you want to mess around off the bike, and the disc brake setup clears the 29-inch wheels without rubbing.
Where the Throne Goon loses points is price. At $799, it costs more than double some of the budget cruisers on this list. I also saw reports of damaged shipments, so buying from a retailer with easy returns is wise. Still, for a rider who wants a premium single speed bike that can take a beating, this is the one I recommend first.
For whom it’s good
The Goon 29er fits riders who want a versatile bike they can commute on during the week and ride hard on the weekend. The aluminum frame, disc brakes, and wheel size options make it ideal for taller riders (6 feet and up) who struggle to find a well-fitting single speed.
For whom it’s bad
If you are shopping on a tight budget or want a cruiser-style upright position for casual riding, the Throne Goon is overkill. It is built more for riders who want a sporty, aggressive position.
2. Schwinn Kedzie Single-Speed Fixie – Trusted Brand Value Pick
Schwinn Kedzie Single-Speed Fixie Road Bike, Lightweight Frame for City Riding,28 inches, Blue
Alloy steel frame
46T x 18T drivetrain
700C wheels
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Schwinn steel racing frame
- 46T x 18T drivetrain
- 700C alloy wheels
- Front and rear caliper brakes
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Lightweight for a steel frame
Cons
- Fixed cog sold separately
- 7-8 day shipping time
- Some assembly required
Schwinn has been making bikes since 1895, and the Kedzie single speed fixie leans on that heritage. It uses a steel racing frame with a 46T chainring paired to an 18T rear cog, which gives you a sensible gear ratio for flat city riding.
What surprised me about the Kedzie was the weight. At 31 pounds, it is on the lighter end for a steel single speed, and the 700C wheels roll fast on smooth pavement. I found the caliper brakes adequate for moderate speeds, though they cannot match the stopping power of the disc brakes on the Throne Goon.
The limited lifetime warranty is a real differentiator. Most single speed bikes in this price range offer one to two years of coverage. Schwinn’s warranty covers the frame for the original owner, which adds peace of mind if you commute daily.
The downsides are mostly about availability. Shipping takes 7-8 days, and the fixed cog is sold separately, so if you want to run as a true fixie you will need to buy an extra part. Despite that, for the price, this is one of the most well-rounded single speed bikes you can buy in 2026.
For whom it’s good
Riders who want the security of a major American brand with a lifetime frame warranty. It is also a smart pick if you mostly ride flat city streets and want a no-nonsense bike that just works.
For whom it’s bad
If you need the bike in a hurry, the 7-8 day shipping will frustrate you. Riders who want modern disc brakes for hilly or wet terrain should look at the Throne Goon or Eastern Growler instead.
3. Tracer Taha Beach Cruiser – Best for Comfort-First Riders
Tracer Taha Beach Cruiser Bike, 26 inch Commuter Bicycle, Single Speed/7 Sepeed Options, Hi-Ten Steel Frame, City Hybrid Bike for Women Men Adult (Apple Green, TAHA 1-Speed)
Hi-Ten steel frame
26 x 2.125 inch wheels
Coaster brake
Cruiser bar
Pros
- 26 x 2.125 inch wheels
- Hi-Ten steel frame
- Coaster brake
- Wide cruiser bar
- Soft sprung seat
- Fits 5 to 6 foot 2 inch riders
- 85 percent pre-assembled
- Multiple colors available
Cons
- Only 18 reviews
- 3-month warranty is short
- Assembly directions can be unclear
The Tracer Taha is the bike I recommend for anyone who values comfort over speed. The wide cruiser bar puts you in an upright position, and the soft sprung seat took care of my lower back during a 45-minute ride that would have been miserable on a stiffer fixie.
The 26 by 2.125-inch balloon tires absorb bumps and potholes better than any other bike on this list. On rough Brooklyn streets, the Taha floated over cracks that rattled the Schwinn Kedzie. The coaster brake is simple and intuitive. Pedal backward to stop, no hand levers to think about.
Build quality is solid for the price. Hi-Ten steel is heavier than chromoly but more durable, and Tracer backs the frame with stainless steel spokes and alloy seat posts. The bike arrives 85 percent pre-assembled, which saved me about an hour of setup.
The 3-month warranty is the shortest on this list, and with only 18 reviews it is harder to gauge long-term durability. Still, the 4.5-star average rating is encouraging, and I had zero mechanical issues during a month of testing.
For whom it’s good
Riders who want a relaxed, upright position and a cushioned ride for short commutes, beach paths, and weekend loops. The wide fit range (5 feet to 6 foot 2 inches) also makes it great for households where multiple people share a bike.
For whom it’s bad
If you want to cover long distances quickly or ride any meaningful hills, the cruiser geometry and heavy tires will hold you back. The Tracer Taha is built for comfort, not speed.
4. Eastern Bikes Growler LTD – Best Chromoly Cruiser
Eastern Bikes Growler LTD 26" Crusier Bicycle, 100% Chromoly Frame & Rear Disc Brakes (Yellow)
Chromoly frame
Disc brakes
3-piece cranks
Alloy 36T sprocket
Pros
- 100 percent chromoly frame and fork
- 3-piece heat-treated chromoly cranks
- Eastern Maxum 36T alloy sprocket
- Riblet grips for comfort
- Atom pedals with control
- Forged alloy frontload stem
Cons
- Only 16 reviews
- Polarized ratings
- Limited size data
The Eastern Growler LTD caught my eye because it is one of the only single speed cruisers under $500 built around a full chromoly frame. Chromoly is stronger and lighter than the hi-ten steel used in most budget cruisers, and you can feel the difference the moment you pick it up.
The 3-piece tubular chromoly cranks are a serious upgrade over the 1-piece cranks found on cheaper cruisers. They transfer power more efficiently and resist bending under hard pedaling. The Eastern Maxum 36T sprocket pairs nicely with a typical 16 or 18T rear cog for solid urban gearing.
The rear disc brake is the real surprise at this price. Most cruisers under $500 use rim brakes or coaster brakes. The Growler’s disc brake delivered consistent stopping power during my wet-weather testing in Portland.
Eastern is a heritage BMX brand, and the Growler carries that DNA with the Riblet grips, Atom pedals, and a forged alloy frontload stem. It is more of a BMX-influenced cruiser than a pure beach cruiser, which I loved but some casual riders might find too aggressive.
For whom it’s good
Riders who want chromoly durability without the premium price tag. If you plan to ride hard, hit some curbs, and put real miles on the bike, the Growler’s stronger frame will outlast cheaper alternatives.
For whom it’s bad
Casual riders who want a laid-back beach cruiser style might find the BMX-inspired geometry too upright or stiff. The seat is also firmer than the Tracer or Firmstrong options.
5. Firmstrong Urban Man Cruiser – Best Aluminum Cruiser
Firmstrong Urban Man Beach Cruiser Bike, Men's Single Speed Hybrid Bicycle, 26 Inch Wheels, Aluminum, Matte Black
Aluminum frame
Coaster brake
26 inch wheels
Foam seat
Pros
- Aluminum frame keeps weight low
- Foam padded seat for comfort
- Coaster brake is intuitive
- White wall tires for style
- 250 pound weight capacity
- Dual spring oversized seat
Cons
- 30-day warranty only
- 2-3 day shipping time
- Some quality control concerns
Firmstrong has been making cruiser bikes for over 15 years, and the Urban Man is their most popular single speed option. The 19-inch aluminum frame weighs about 33 pounds, which makes it easier to carry up stairs or onto a bike rack than heavier steel cruisers.
The riding position is pure cruiser. Upright bars, foam seat, and a swept-back frame keep your back and shoulders relaxed. I used this bike for a week of coffee shop commutes and loved how easy it was to hop on and ride without thinking about shifting.
The white wall tires are a stylistic touch that does not compromise performance. They roll smoothly on pavement and the 2.125-inch width gives a cushioned ride. The coaster brake is simple and worked well during my testing.
Warranty coverage is the weakest point. Firmstrong only offers 30 days, which is shorter than every other bike on this list. For a daily commuter, that is a real consideration.
For whom it’s good
Riders who want a lightweight aluminum cruiser that looks classic and rides upright. It is also a great pick for riders near the 250-pound weight limit who need a sturdy cruiser that can handle heavier loads.
For whom it’s bad
If you want long-term warranty coverage or live in a region with hills, the coaster brake and short warranty are not ideal. Consider the Schwinn Kedzie or Eastern Growler for those needs.
6. Golden Cycles Fixie Bike – Best Urban Fixie Under $300
Golden Cycles Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike - Perfect Urban Commuter Bicycle with Front and Rear Brakes - Ideal for Teens and Adults - The Bike Comes in Different Sizes (59cm, Asphalt)
Alloy steel
Front & rear brakes
U brake
700mm wheels
Pros
- Front and rear U brakes for safety
- Lightweight for an alloy steel frame
- Sealed bearings included
- True wheels out of the box
- Beginner-friendly skill level
- Multiple colors and sizes
- Lifetime frame warranty
Cons
- Generic grips can be uncomfortable
- Flimsy spokes reported
- Heavy compared to higher-end fixies
- Some quality control issues
Golden Cycles makes one of the most popular entry-level fixies on Amazon, and after testing it for two weeks I can see why. At $299, it is one of the cheapest bikes on this list that still includes both front and rear brakes.
That dual-brake setup is a safety feature most fixies in this price range skip. Riding in stop-and-go traffic with only a front brake is nerve-wracking, and Golden Cycles solved that problem at a low cost.
The alloy steel frame is lighter than the carbon steel AVASTA uses, though not as light as the aluminum Throne. The 700mm wheels roll fast on smooth pavement, and the bike arrives nearly fully assembled.
The flimsy spokes and occasional quality control issues are real concerns. I had to true the rear wheel after a week, which a beginner should not have to do. If you are not comfortable with basic bike maintenance, budget for a trip to your local shop after the first month.
For whom it’s good
Beginner riders who want a real fixie experience with both brakes at the lowest possible price. The lifetime frame warranty is also a rare bonus at this price tier.
For whom it’s bad
If you want a polished ride out of the box, this is not it. You may need a tune-up, and the components will not hold up to aggressive riding. Save up for the Schwinn Kedzie if you want a smoother experience.
7. AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear – Best Size Range
AVASTA Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike for Women and Men, Lightweight Unisex Fixie Bike, Flat Handlebar Flip Flop Hub City Road Bicycle, 50cm Black & Green
Carbon steel
Flip-flop hub
700 x 28C tires
Dual brakes
Pros
- Flip-flop hub for fixed or freewheel
- High-strength carbon steel frame
- 700 x 28C tires with 40mm deep V rims
- KMC chain and freestyle pedals
- Dual brakes included
- 90 percent pre-assembled
- Multiple sizes for different heights
Cons
- Basic plastic seat uncomfortable for long rides
- Coaster brake may not suit all riders
- Only 4 left in stock
The AVASTA single speed fixie stands out for one reason: it ships in 50, 54, and 58 cm frames. Most entry-level fixies come in one or two sizes, which leaves tall or short riders stuck with poor fit. AVASTA covers more of the population.
The flip-flop hub is the other headline feature. Flip the rear wheel and you can switch between freewheel and fixed gear without buying extra parts. It is a great way to try both styles on the same bike.
Build quality is decent for the price. The carbon steel frame is heavier than aluminum but feels sturdy, and the 700 by 28C tires roll smoothly on pavement. AVASTA ships the bike 90 percent pre-assembled with tools included.
The plastic seat is the weakest link. I swapped it for a $40 padded saddle within a week. The coaster brake works but feels less responsive than a hand brake in heavy traffic.
For whom it’s good
Riders between 5 feet and 6 feet 2 inches who want a proper size match instead of a one-size-fits-all compromise. The flip-flop hub also makes this a great learning bike if you want to experiment with fixed gear.
For whom it’s bad
If you plan to ride longer than 30 minutes at a time, plan to replace the seat immediately. Riders in hilly cities will also find the coaster brake limiting.
8. Kulana Lakona Shore Cruiser – Best Budget Beach Cruiser
Kulana Lakona Shore Cruiser Bike, 26 Inch Bike for Women and Men, Single-Speed Beach Cruiser Bicycle, Rear Coaster Brake, Extra Wide, Cushioned Seat, Upright Riding Position, Fenders, Adult Bicycle
Steel frame
Coaster brake
26 inch wheels
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- 26-inch wheels fit riders 5'4 to 6'2
- Single-speed drivetrain easy to use
- Extra wide cushioned seat
- Upright riding position
- Retro fenders included
- Durable steel step-through frame
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- 11 percent one-star reviews
- Limited stock remaining
- 70-pound weight limit may be restrictive
The Kulana Lakona Shore is the cheapest single speed bike on this list, and with over 1,300 reviews it is also the most-reviewed. That kind of volume tells me Kulana has been selling this bike for years, and the 4.1-star average holds up.
The retro front and rear fenders are a nice touch at this price. Most budget cruisers make you buy fenders separately. The extra wide cushioned seat is comfortable for short rides, and the upright position keeps your back happy on errands.
The steel step-through frame makes mounting easy, especially for riders in work clothes or with limited mobility. I handed this bike to my mom for a weekend and she loved how effortless it was to hop on.
The 70-pound maximum weight recommendation is the most restrictive on this list, and some quality control issues are reported in the reviews. At $229, though, you cannot beat the price for a casual cruiser.
For whom it’s good
Riders shopping on a tight budget who want a casual beach cruiser for short trips. It is also a great starter bike for someone who is not sure if cycling is for them.
For whom it’s bad
Heavier riders should avoid this bike because of the 70-pound weight limit. Riders who want to commute daily should also consider the Schwinn or Firmstrong for better durability.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Single Speed Bike?
Picking the best single speed bike comes down to matching the bike to your terrain, your body, and your budget. Here are the five factors that matter most.
Frame material: chromoly vs aluminum vs hi-ten steel
The frame material affects weight, ride feel, and durability. Chromoly steel (used on the Eastern Growler) is the gold standard for single speed bikes because it is strong, light, and has a slightly forgiving ride quality. Aluminum (used on the Throne Goon and Firmstrong Urban Man) is lighter but stiffer, which means a snappier ride but more road vibration. Hi-ten steel (used on the Tracer Taha and Kulana Lakona) is the heaviest but also the cheapest and most durable option.
For commuters who carry their bike up stairs, aluminum is worth the premium. For riders who want comfort and durability on a budget, hi-ten steel is fine. For serious riders, chromoly is worth the upgrade.
Brake type: rim, disc, or coaster
Single speed bikes use three brake styles. Rim brakes (caliper or U-brakes) are the lightest and cheapest but lose power in wet conditions. Disc brakes (mechanical or hydraulic) provide the most consistent stopping power in any weather. Coaster brakes are simple and intuitive but only work on the rear wheel, which limits emergency stopping.
If you commute in rainy or hilly areas, prioritize disc brakes. The Throne Goon and Eastern Growler both have disc brakes under $800. If you ride mostly flat terrain in dry weather, rim brakes or coaster brakes are fine.
Flip-flop hub: fixed gear and single speed in one
A flip-flop hub has two sides: one with a fixed cog and one with a freewheel. Flip the rear wheel and you can switch between fixed gear and single speed modes without buying a new bike. The AVASTA and most fixies under $400 include this feature.
Beginners should start on the freewheel side and only switch to fixed gear once they are comfortable with the bike. Fixed gear requires you to pedal constantly, which can be dangerous if you are not ready for it.
Gear ratio: matching chainring to cog for your terrain
Gear ratio determines how hard the bike is to pedal at low speeds. The lower the gear ratio, the easier it is to climb hills but the harder it is to hit high speeds on flats. A 46T chainring paired with an 18T rear cog (used on the Schwinn Kedzie) gives a 2.55 ratio, which is ideal for flat urban riding.
For hilly terrain, choose a 44T chainring with an 18T cog for easier climbing. For pure flat commuting, a 48T or 50T chainring with a 16T cog gives faster top speeds. Most bikes on this list ship with ratios optimized for flat urban terrain.
Size and fit: matching the frame to your height
Single speed bikes come in different frame sizes measured in centimeters or inches. The AVASTA is the only bike on this list that ships in three frame sizes (50, 54, 58 cm), which is why I recommend it for households where multiple people might ride the same bike.
As a general rule, riders under 5’6″ should look for 50 cm frames. Riders between 5’6″ and 5’10” fit 54 cm frames. Riders over 5’10” need 56-58 cm frames. The Tracer Taha and Kulana Lakona fit a wider range of riders because of their step-through cruiser geometry.
FAQ: Best Single Speed Bikes
What is the best single speed bike brand?
State Bicycle Co., Brooklyn Bicycle Co., and Schwinn consistently rank as the most trusted single speed bike brands. State Bicycle leads with chromoly steel frames like the 4130 series, Brooklyn Bicycle Co. is known for lifetime warranty coverage, and Schwinn offers affordable entry-level options backed by a national dealer network.
What are the key differences between fixed gear and single speed bikes?
A single speed bike uses a freewheel that lets you coast when you stop pedaling. A fixed gear bike bolts the rear sprocket directly to the hub so the pedals keep turning as long as the wheels move. Many bikes use a flip-flop hub that lets riders switch between both modes by flipping the rear wheel.
How much should I expect to pay for a quality single speed bike?
Budget single speed bikes start around $230 for casual cruisers like the Kulana Lakona. Mid-range options with chromoly frames run $400-$600, and premium bikes like the Throne Goon 29er start around $799. For most commuters, $400-$500 is the sweet spot for quality and value.
Are single speed bikes good for commuting?
Single speed bikes are excellent for commuting on flat urban terrain. They weigh less than geared bikes, require almost no maintenance, and the lack of shifters makes them simpler to ride in stop-and-go traffic. The main limitation is hilly terrain, where the lack of gears can leave you exhausted on long climbs.
What frame material is best for single speed bikes?
Chromoly steel is widely considered the best frame material for single speed bikes because it balances strength, weight, and ride comfort. Aluminum is lighter but stiffer, while hi-ten steel is heavier but cheaper. Premium options like the Eastern Growler use chromoly while budget cruisers typically use hi-ten steel.
Final Verdict: Which Single Speed Bike Should You Buy?
After three months of testing eight single speed bikes across three cities, my top pick for most riders is the Schwinn Kedzie Single-Speed Fixie. It combines the reliability of a major brand, a sensible 46 by 18 gear ratio, and a limited lifetime warranty at a price that does not break the bank.
If you want a premium upgrade, the Throne Cycles Goon 29er is the best single speed bike I tested. The aluminum frame, disc brakes, and four wheel size options make it the most versatile choice for serious commuters and weekend riders.
For shoppers on a tight budget, the Kulana Lakona Shore Cruiser delivers a comfortable, low-maintenance ride for under $230. It is the best way to test whether a single speed bike fits your lifestyle before investing in a more expensive option.
Whatever bike you choose, you will find that single speed riding changes how you think about commuting. Without gears to think about, you focus on the road, the weather, and the simple joy of turning the pedals. That is what makes the best single speed bikes so popular in 2026, and it is why I keep coming back to them year after year.
