Why are there two uses for "FIXIE" in bicycle lingo?

B

Bicycle Grrl

New member
I often hear FIXIE used as a reference for two separate things.

Fixed Gear Bikes
and
Run Down Fixer-upper Bikes

Why is this? Which is correct?
The reason I asked my question is due to the fact that I am already aware of the difference between the two.
 
A "fixie" is referring to a fixed gear bicycle - one with only one gear that does not freewheel (no freewheeling means that the pedals always turn with the rear wheel. Bikes with only one gear that do freewheel are more correctly referred to as "single speeds"). "Fixie" referrs to the verb "fixed" which means "attached" or something that does not move or is not independant.

A "fixer-upper" is referring to a bicycle that is old and considered out-dated that is in need of repair or "moderization." "Fix" in this sense means to correct, repair or upgrade.

It is possible to get a "fixer-upper" and turn it into a "fixie," if you see what I mean...
 
Back
Top