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Singlespeed & Fixed Gear "I still feel that variable gears are only for people over forty-five. Isn't it better to triumph by the strength of your muscles than by the artifice of a derailer? We are getting soft...As for me, give me a fixed gear!"-- Henri Desgrange (31 January 1865 - 16 August 1940)

Some beginner queries

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Old 06-11-21, 04:07 PM
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El Bolas
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Some beginner queries

I've been lookin for a bike so I can replace the one I used to ride that has to go back to its original owner, and I finally kinda found a "fixie" that can fit me in some way (consider I'm 5'5 or 165cm so it's been quite a journey to get something in Argentina), problem is I don't know if is still way too high, like, the top tube does actually reach out the crotch, but I don't know how much of an effect can that make when stopping in a red light and stuff. Anybody who already had experienced that type of bike know if it's actually a big deal or not really?
Btw, does skidding actually help when taking sharp corners or approaching the end of a block more easily, in a way like making it easier to go in a better angle? Like it's actually one of my main concerns with the insecurity in my town. (srry if all this sounds sorta basic but I really wanna get my money well spent).
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Old 06-11-21, 06:19 PM
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TejanoTrackie 
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Shouldn’t your name be Las Bolas ?
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Old 06-11-21, 07:42 PM
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El Bolas
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It's kinda like a way to address the "Bolas" as an actual person, that's why "El". If I were trying to say it like the actual thing, then it would be just "Las bolas".
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Old 06-11-21, 07:53 PM
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test ride a fixed to see if you "like" the feel ... skidding and pedal retention and gear ratios and bullhorns all come with time
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Old 06-12-21, 12:57 AM
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Mikefule
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Size of the bike:

When you are riding it, the important distances are from the seat down to the pedal at the bottom of its stroke, and from the seat to the bars. The height of the top tube doesn't matter.

When you are stopped at red traffic lights, the height of the seat tube can matter. You need to be able to stop with one foot comfortably supporting the wight of the bike, and without feeling that you are in an unnatural or stretched position. It is normal to move forward off the seat so that you are standing astride the top tube with one foot on the ground and one on the pedal.

Skidding:

Riding in traffic, it is far safer to use brakes and not skid. Yes, many people choose to skid instead, and get away with it, but you have less control and there is more to go wrong.
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Old 06-12-21, 09:34 AM
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Originally Posted by El Bolas
the top tube does actually reach out the crotch, but I don't know how much of an effect can that make when stopping in a red light and stuff.
Standover clearance isn't the most important aspect of frame fit (I think top tube length is more important), but it's certainly a consideration. It isn't really an issue at a stop light or other anticipated situation. The danger is in coming off the saddle abruptly in a sudden stop, when your crotch hits the top tube before your feet hit the ground.

Originally Posted by El Bolas
does skidding actually help when taking sharp corners or approaching the end of a block more easily, in a way like making it easier to go in a better angle?
Skidding is a skill worth developing, but it offers no advantages over using a brake, and a couple of disadvantages. Hand-brakes can modulate your speed with more precision than a skidding tire. The more in-control you are, the more confidently you can ride, steer, and stop. I'd keep a front brake on the bike for awhile, until you get a handle on how the whole fixed-gear thing works. Especially if your bike is of a questionable fit.
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