The Fixie Trend: Popular but Dangerous Among Students

 

Fixed Gear Bikes: Popular Yet Controversial Among Youth

Recently, fixed gear bikes, also known as "fixies," have become a trend among upper elementary and middle school students. Despite their popularity, concerns about their high price and lack of safety features have sparked debates among parents and experts.

What Makes Fixies Unique?

Fixed gear bikes are characterized by their simplicity. They have no gear-shifting system or brakes, which sets them apart from standard bicycles. To stop the bike, riders must pedal in the opposite direction of movement. This design allows the bike to move backward and makes it lightweight due to fewer parts. Fixies have long been favored by adults for their sleek design, high speed, and minimalist appeal.

Concerns Among Parents

For parents like Mr. A, whose children are in the third and fifth grades, the demand for a fixie has been a source of stress. "My kids are obsessed with getting one, but when we looked, the price was over 400,000 KRW, which is too expensive," he said.

Safety concerns are also a major issue. Without brakes, riders can struggle to stop quickly in emergencies, leading to potentially severe accidents. One parent shared a terrifying story about witnessing a child losing control on a fixie and being thrown off the bike. "My child keeps asking for one, but I refuse to buy it because it's too dangerous," said another parent.

Expert Opinion

Kim Yeon-chan, the owner of a bike shop, explained that fixies are better suited for experienced cyclists who know how to handle their speed and unique braking system. "They are very popular among young people, but I don't recommend them for beginners or children. Fixies are fast, and stopping them requires skill, which increases the risk of accidents," he said. Kim also emphasized the importance of wearing helmets and protective gear when riding any bicycle.

Rising Bicycle Accidents

Data from the Traffic Accident Analysis System (TAAS) shows that in Chungbuk Province, there were 483 bicycle-related accidents over the past three years. These statistics highlight the importance of choosing safe bicycles for young riders.





Discussion Questions and Activities

A. Vocabulary Questions

Fill in the blanks with the correct words:

  • trend | unique | simplicity | dangerous | expensive
  • 1. Something very costly __________.
  • 2. When something is very special or one of a kind __________.
  • 3. When something is risky or unsafe __________.
  • 4. A popular idea or style __________.
  • 5. A lack of complexity __________.

B. Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think fixies have become popular among students?
  2. Do you think parents should buy these bikes for their children? Why or why not?
  3. What safety precautions should young riders take when riding bicycles?
  4. Have you ever ridden a bicycle? What kind of bike do you prefer and why?
  5. If you were a parent, would you let your child use a fixie?

C. Research Activity

Compare and contrast fixed gear bikes with regular bikes. Fill in the table below:

Fixed Gear Bikes Regular Bikes
No brakes Have brakes
Lightweight Heavier due to more parts

Answers

A. Vocabulary Questions

  1. expensive
  2. unique
  3. dangerous
  4. trend
  5. simplicity

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