Nice post. Sounds like the fixie crowd is different by area. I do not own a fixie but, speaking from close proximity to the fixie crowd I find the majority are industrious, respectful, resourceful, gentle, innovative but not without attitude or personality. I find they are nicer than the older set driving cars. I pay the punks no attention and they vaporize quickly. Normally the compliments I get on my vintage rides are from this group. They have chased me down in traffic to stop me, ask about what I am riding, where did I find it. As a side note it was a Washington DC bike messenger who pulled my brother from the road after he was hit. Industry side folks in Chicago wish the 20-25 yr old set had big bucks for bike stuff, maybe those living with Mommy and Daddy in the burbs do. Clearly the majority of hipsters around here are riding primary for transportation, not collecting and can't afford toys. A $500 dollar wheelset on a crap frame parked under the tracks at the El station wouldn't last a New Yok minute.
As young as I want to be:
Chris Plunkett
Chicsago, Illinois