Trick Track and Fixed Gear Freestyle: A Dive into the World of Urban Fixed-Gear Tricks

Fixed gear culture has evolved into a subculture all its own, blending simplicity with bold self-expression and intense physical skill. Two distinct but related branches have emerged within this culture: Trick Track and Fixed Gear Freestyle (FGFS). Both draw from cycling, skateboarding, and BMX elements, making urban streets the ideal playground for riders looking to push the limits of what's possible on a bike. Here’s a closer look at these exhilarating sports, their origins, and what sets them apart.

What is Trick Track?

Trick Track, often seen as an entry point to fixed-gear tricks, emphasizes riding and performing maneuvers on fixed-gear bikes in a style similar to flatland BMX. Riders perform a mix of spins, wheelies, skids, and other controlled movements, often in confined spaces or at slower speeds, relying on the “fixed” nature of the drivetrain to maintain precise control.

Trick Track is often focused on technical tricks that use the body’s movement to control the bike through spins, hops, and stalls. This style is accessible to beginners because it doesn’t require large jumps or high-impact stunts. However, advanced Trick Track riders can elevate these tricks into stunning displays of balance, flow, and creativity, making it a respected style in its own right.

Key Trick Track Moves

Some classic Trick Track maneuvers include:

• Track Stand: Balancing in place without moving, often used as a foundation for other tricks.
• Skid Stops: A fixed-gear bike allows riders to skid to a stop by locking up the rear wheel, creating dramatic slides.
• Bar Spins: Spinning the handlebars 360 degrees while maintaining balance.
• Wheelies: Lifting the front wheel off the ground and riding on the rear wheel for short or long distances.

Trick Track is often practiced in empty parking lots, smooth concrete spots, or urban plazas. The low-speed, controlled nature of this discipline means it’s less about airtime and more about flow and precision.

What is Fixed Gear Freestyle (FGFS)?

Fixed Gear Freestyle, or FGFS, builds on Trick Track’s principles but with an added focus on high-impact tricks, jumps, and stunts. It’s closer to BMX riding, where riders attempt big air tricks, grind on ledges, and use urban obstacles to their advantage. FGFS is about pushing both the rider’s physical limits and the structural capabilities of the bike, which has to withstand repeated impacts and high-stress moves.

FGFS bikes are typically reinforced with wider tires, stronger frames, and more compact geometries to endure the rigors of trick riding. Unlike Trick Track, which may involve more static and low-speed tricks, FGFS is often performed with speed and momentum, allowing for bigger and more dynamic tricks.

Key FGFS Tricks

Some popular FGFS tricks include:

• Bunny Hops: Jumping both wheels off the ground simultaneously, often a precursor to more advanced moves.
• Grinds: Using the bike's pegs or pedals to slide along ledges, rails, or curbs.
• 180s and 360s: Rotating the bike and body in the air for partial or full turns.
• Wall Rides: Riding up vertical surfaces like walls or ledges, often transitioning back down in a fluid motion.

While Trick Track thrives in smaller spaces, FGFS requires a mix of urban obstacles like stair sets, rails, and ramps, making cities the perfect terrain. This style of riding demands both strength and agility, as riders need to balance themselves with the lack of coasting that comes with fixed-gear bikes.

Equipment and Setup

One of the defining features of Trick Track and FGFS is the specialized gear. Though FGFS and Trick Track share some similarities, they each have unique setup requirements:

1. Frames: FGFS bikes are made with reinforced frames that can withstand impacts from big jumps and tricks, whereas Trick Track bikes can use lighter frames since the tricks generally have a lower impact.
2. Tires: FGFS bikes feature wider tires for stability and to absorb shocks on rough surfaces. Trick Track bikes often use narrower tires, which offer speed and control for more technical tricks.
3. Pedals and Pegs: FGFS riders sometimes add pegs for grinding or sliding, whereas Trick Track setups are often simplified to prioritize lightweight components.
4. Handlebars: Many FGFS bikes have BMX-style handlebars for easier maneuvering and greater control. Trick Track riders might choose riser bars, drop bars, or bullhorns, giving them more flexibility in their style.

The Culture and Community

The Trick Track and FGFS scenes are built on a strong sense of community. Both encourage creativity, experimentation, and skill-sharing, creating a welcoming environment for new riders and veterans alike. Social media, especially Instagram and YouTube, has become a vital part of these subcultures. Riders from all over the world share their tricks, bike setups, and favorite spots, pushing each other to try new moves and push boundaries.

Street culture is central to Trick Track and FGFS, blending elements of hip-hop, skateboarding, and graffiti art into a cohesive identity. Riders often seek out abandoned warehouses, city plazas, and other urban spots, making use of the landscape to inspire new tricks. It’s not uncommon to see riders filming their sessions to capture new tricks or document a day out with friends, further spreading the culture and community online.

Getting Started in Trick Track or FGFS

If you’re new to fixed-gear tricks and want to get started, here are a few tips to help you jump in:

1. Choose Your Style: Trick Track is a great way to start if you’re new to trick riding. You can learn fundamental skills like balance and control at low speeds before moving on to FGFS if you’re interested.
2. Find the Right Bike: Start with a bike that matches your intended style. Look for something durable with a fixed gear and, if possible, a bike built for tricks. Many entry-level FGFS bikes are available, but any solid fixie can be a good start for Trick Track.
3. Practice the Basics: Start with simpler moves like track stands, skids, and wheelies. Once you master those, you can progress to more complex tricks.
4. Get Involved in the Community: Find other riders through social media or local events. The fixed-gear trick community is welcoming and collaborative, making it easier to learn from others and find riding spots.

Why Trick Track and FGFS are Here to Stay

Trick Track and FGFS offer a unique, expressive form of cycling that transforms cityscapes into playgrounds. For riders, it’s not just about the tricks—it’s about the creativity, the physical and mental challenge, and the thrill of exploring the urban landscape. As the community grows and the styles continue to evolve, Trick Track and FGFS will keep pushing the limits of what's possible on a fixed-gear bike, blending sport with art and individuality.

If you’re drawn to the world of urban cycling and want to express your creativity, Trick Track or FGFS could be the perfect fit. With a bike, some dedication, and the right community, the possibilities are endless.