I’m not normally one to extoll the virtues of track bicycles or fixed gears, not because I don’t recognize their aesthetic appeal, but moreso because I don’t have personal experience with either. While I have loved commuting and even doing long rides on a single speed, both practicality and lack of extra space in my apartment have caused me to skew towards having 2 bicycles that can cover multiple needs and accomodate all the riding I do. If I had more space for more bikes, I would probably have a single speed commuter and/or a winter fixed gear in my stable, just because they seem like a fun riding experiment.

This Townsend won numerous accolades at a prior NAHBS, so I’m not communicating anything new here. Part of what appeals to me is the color of the bicycle and how well integrated the components here are in the context of the whole bicycle. While there is a custom stem and bar combination, it’s muted enough to not draw attention or look ostentatious.

Full set here.