What is the best singlespeed / single speed bike? We review a range of different bikes

Single speed bikes have had something of a resurgence over the last decade. Before the advent of gears all bikes just had a single chainring up front and one cog at the back. Over time their popularity waned as technology provided gearing options but there is something about the simplicity of a one speed bike that tugs at the attention in an increasingly complicated world.

Pro riders of old would swear on riding a fixed gear (a single speed bike without a freewheel) over the winter months to improve pedaling efficiency. Most modern single speeds have a reversible rear wheel with a freewheel on one side and a fixed cog on the other.  The good news with single speed bikes is you can pick up a budget bike that is still very useful due to the fact that there is so little to them.

Starting at the lower priced end of the market here is a good range of options with links to more information and reviews on each model.

Eastway Single Speed

What they say: Looking for a great value single speed then look no further. New for 2017 is the Eastway Single speed, a full custom hi ten steel frame with fender clearance, reflective decals and bullhorn bars making it perfect for blasting around town or commuting.

What we say: This is a great value steel framed single speed. Made from plain (not butted) steel tubing to keep the cost down. The bullhorn bars give set it apart from most budget offerings and it comes in some bright paint potions including a raw unpainted  steel finish. The decals are reflective and the gearing is 44-17.

Buy this if you are on a budget but still want a good bike.

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Felt York (2017) Singlespeed Bike

What they say: The Felt York is a perfect balance of function and British-inspired style.

What we say: Styled like a classic British single speed the York has an upright seating position and a front basket. It has butted steel tubes and comes with fenders/mudguards fitted  and would make a good commuter bike. The felt york is quite individual among the mainly track styled single speed bikes. It seems to be a bike to polarize opinions.

Buy this if you want something unique, a cool bike with an upright position.

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Charge Plug 0 (2017) Single Speed Bike

What they say: For 2017 Charge have introduced the new Plug 0, their entry level single speed bike, its steel frame and straight bladed forks, classic single speed geometry and classic bullhorn road bars makes it the ultimate street beast.

What we say: The Charge plug has been around for years now and has gone through something of an evolution process over about a decade.This latest offering (this is the base model) has got wide tyre clearance and good cantilever brakes. The steel frame has an 80s style fade paint finish (from black to blue on the 0 model). Gearing is 42-16 which is just about the right balance between climbing up hills and spinning out on the other side. Charge really know what they are doing with the plug and produce a good value product that also has a good resale value.

Buy this if you want a cool British bike brand that can take the knocks of daily use.

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Charge Plug 1 Disc (2017) Single Speed Bike

What they say: The best of the single-speed riding with solid stopping power.

What we say: The next bike up in the charge plug range is the drop bar disc brake equipped ‘1 disc’ model. This time with a light weight 6061 aluminium frame and standard charge 42-16 gearing. it has a compact geometry frame and loads of tyre clearance.

Buy this if you want a great singlespeed you can take off road also.

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Cinelli MASH Works (2017) Singlespeed Bike

What they say: The geometry of the MASH Work is aggressive by nature. A high bottom bracket gives additional clearance for fast cornering.

What we say: Cinelli is a quality brand with great heritage. The mash frameset has been evolving for quite a few years and the latest works model is packed with great features. the steel frame is made from superb columbus tubing. All the parts and finishing kit are quality branded products. Wide 35c tyre clearance and cantilever brakes. Although at just under a grand the price is high, when you take in to account the frame is £800 alone it starts to look cheap as a full bike.

Buy this if you want the best. Great design…with added cinelli heritage

See more reviews and discount prices on Wiggle