While I agree that cutting braze-ons off of road frames is rude, it also doesn't actually lighten or significantly change the appearance of the bike. That said, I ride an old Raleigh fixie conversion. It's kind of disturbing that anybody would wish for another person to crash simply because his bike isn't set up right. Maybe instead of mocking him, most fixedgeargallery postings have the email address of the poster, you should let him know he's in eminent danger. That's what any true biker should do. The fixed gear "fad" might be annoying to some people, but just imagine if all those derailleur's end up on ebay. Then all the old guys who can't just pedal harder will have a new trove of parts to restore the bikes that are hanging on their walls, and not riding the streets where any bike belongs. I think anything that's gets people riding more and driving less is great. As an added bonus it brings increased visibility to all bikers when cars have to pay attention while speeding down the street. So, please, everybody quit complaining that bikers are ruining biking, and maybe go ride with some and see if you can keep up with them. I push a 52 16, wanna race?
Brad
Puyallup, WA
1930-40 Australian Healing path racer