There are heaps of them here in Vancouver, not just all the couriers, but all sorts of folks. It’s insane, I see then trucking up some pretty good hills too (UBC esp.)
I think if I rode mine on the road I would want the front brake put back on whilst learning. Do most of the riders have clipless pedals, Andy?
What are you doing up at 0500?
check it out for some fixed gear bike photos. pretty cool…
I ride mine all over the city, with Keywin clipless pedals - not known for being the easiest to release from. When I first built it up I tried riding with clips and straps, but it’s damn hard to cinch down that strap when your foot keeps going 'round! Getting out was another story altogether. I can’t imagine riding a fixed gear bike while not locked in to the pedals, though.
I run a front brake for emergency purposes, and the bike actually has a rear brake installed as well. It’s adjusted so loose that when the brake lever hits the bar the pads still don’t touch the rim - but I wanted to avoid any hassle from unenlightened race marshals that might try to bust my chops for not having 2 brakes on the bike (though technically, the fixed gear counts as a brake so only a front is necessary).
You see the funniest things in Vancouver.
I’ve seen this courier in Vancouver with the most trick franken-fixie. LOOK fork, box rims, no stack on the headset, no front brake.
This other day I saw a bunch of peeps on cruisers and fixiesswarm around this roadie. It was the most hilarious sight! He was all decked out in team wear, but they were your “Commerical Dr.” young urban-grunge types.
One guy in particular totally blew me away. His posse was kinda turning right already, but he kept going straight and was passing the entry into the intersection. But then he LOCKED his rear wheel to start a drift. He drifted for only a fraction of a section but that was enough to get his bike 90deg and reunite himself with his posse. Amazing!
It was like bees I tell you.
Proudly riding my fixie all around Vancouver!
going to swimming. 
Most have cleats. I’m so impressed. I’d love to do it, but would be scared. Maybe after another season on the track…
Looks like I had better change my track tyres out for road tyres when I get there!