djpfine

I own a geared hybrid but have been thinking about getting either a single speed or fixed gear for a more hassle free bike during the winter months. Which type of bike woud be the best to ride to stay in shape and improve road biking:

1. The hybrid because it's geared and mostly closely replicates the experience I'd have on my road bike

2. The single speed because it will force me to work harder on hills but also let me tackle descents

or

3. The fixed gear because it will help me improve my pedaling and cadence

AngrySaki

From a training point of view, I think you're best bet is to make your winter training bike as similar to your summer bike as you can. That's assuming you're willing to "work hard" on it. The arguable benefit of a fixed gear is that it means you _can't_ be lazy on hills. So if you lack motivation, it might get you a better work out. If you are motivated, you'll get a better workout on a geared bike (because you can do drills that simulate riding a fixed gear, as well as drills that don't).

My winter bike is different than my summer bike, but that's mostly just for a change of pace (I also pull out my summer bike in the winter on dry days). My winter bike is in a bit more relaxed position so I can ride around in the snow and and stuff like that.
I personally don't find dealing with a derailleur in the winter that big of a deal, if it gets all crudded up or freezes, you're in no worse of a position than you were if you were riding a fixed gear (which does happen).

VA_Esquire

The one that works.

ptle

I don't think it really matters too much... it's more about what kind of training you put over the winter.

People can stay in shape riding on the trainer, commuting, mountain biking, or using a fixed-gear winter bike.

People have single speed/fixed geared bikes because the winter weather is harsh, and the lack of gears makes the bike more reliable. It's also an added bonus that riding single speed can help improve your spin and muscles (from low cadence).

For me? I'll be doing a lot of commuting and mountain biking (on my single speed).

simonaway427

I ride a CX bike with Shimano 2300. 32c tires help with the cold, jarring ride (and traction), and the thumbshifters are much easier to shift with winter gloves on tham the paddles on my Ultregra bike.

That said, I'm building a SS on a road frame for next year, we'll see how that goes.

botto 

one with fenders.

kbtommy

Mine's a Surly Cross Check with fenders and 32mm tires (and swapped the shifters to Tiagra). Thing is a beast, weighs a ton, but it's near-invincible. Surprisingly fun ride, too.

djpfine

Love the Cross Check. Took one out for a test ride the other day and had a blast. That frame is incredibly versatile as well.

rogerstg

Seems like you already have a winter bike. What are the hassles?

djpfine

Dealing with the derailers and drivetrain. I'd love to have three bikes, but don't have the space in my apartment so would have to get rid of the hybrid if I went with the SS/FG option.

Lamabb

I don't know where you live, but unless you get some serious snow, there's no problem with riding your regular bike through the winter. I do, and I know plenty of people who have for years. Their bikes are in fine conditions, they just replace the chain every year or two. O, and if you have mad salt on the ground like I do in NYS, make sure to wash your bike on occasion. I give it at least a quick rinse every ride when there's bad salt.

cbfight

I have an old single speed mountain bike that I fendered out and strapped a milk crate to the back of that I ride around. I take out the race bike on nice days, but otherwise it's left on the trainer.

Sometimes when I feel Belgium, I go riding in the rain, but I'm lazy and don't like cleaning my bike that often since I live in an apartment and keep my bike indoors.

pdedes

i loved my old fixed cx bike. a blast on snowy trails!

wens

The one you actually ride.