Anyone out there ride a fix?

They've been a bit trendy for a few years, and I'm noticing more on the roads these days.

I'm re-introducing a fixed wheel bike to my stable. I bought a ready-made one a few years ago (an il Pompino from On-one). It was a cool bike, but I never really fell in love with it. The handlebars were too wierd, and the frame was a bit industrial for my liking. The handling was very flat/uninspiring too, so I sold it on.

I'm not religious about riding a fixed, but I've decided that I would like to have the option: they're almost maintenance free; there is something nice about not having to worry about which gear to use; and it means all those expensive gears and mechs are spared the wear and tear of winter.

I happen to have an old touring frame, that is (was) in semi retirement, so I'm building it up into a fixed. And (because I already had the frame) it doesn't count as a new bike, and I don't have to explain it when the family wanders into the garage/sees it coming out for the first time!

Result!

Kind of sad to be replying to my own post, but then I'm like that!

The Claud Butler Dalesman is now the Pick'n'fix (because I converted it largely with bits and pieces I had lying around, apart from the rear wheel which I bought), and is a wonderful ride. Possibly even better than when it was new.

It's comfortable, simple and quiet - unlike its rider in every respect!