BFF London 08 - I wanna ride fixed

This week I have been at the bicycle film festival It was a mixture of watching cool movies, schmoozing and standing around on a street corner in the freezing cold valet parking bikes. All part of CycleSurgery sponsoring the event.

I was really blown away by the popularity of the fixed crowd – commuters and enthusiasts, turning up on their classic Italian frames, Bob Jackson customs or unrecognisable stickered up steeds, covered in gold plated cranks, anodized rims and circa 1970 Campagnolo brakes. It was really making me think of how the mod scene must have been in the 60’s. We were parking up a 300+ bikes for the busy showings and it was awesome looking at the bike porn and chatting away with people about how the scene is developing. Not one person was in a rush, rude and many people donated half full bottles of whiskey, (full & unopened) cans of lager etc for standing out in the cold and watching their bikes…

I watched a film called Fast Friday which looks at the Seattle fixed gear scene and a monthly event ‘Fixed Friday’ it was really inspiring. I don’t think I will be growing a handlebar moustache and riding without a helmet – but I am drawing closer to the point of choosing which SS to buy for the road (to go with the Surly 1x1 mtb when funds become available), and thinking that riding fixed will happen sooner rather than later.

All I ask is for you to come visit me in hospital.

Also watched Waffle bike - worth a look...!