Concerns over safety escalate as fixed-gear bikes (fixies) become favored among Korean adolescents
Flaunting Fixie Flair at Seoul's Olympic Park
Kim, a lively 14-year-old, strikes a pose with his fixed-gear bicycle, or "fixie," at Olympic Park in Songpa District, southern Seoul, on May 2. [JOONGANG ILBO]
But it's not just Kim showing off his two-wheeled prowess at the park. High school student, alias Im Jung-su, is also taking the scene by storm with his fixie stunts. [JOONGANG ILBO]
Despite the growing popularity of fixies, there's a lack of safety guidelines specific to these bikes from the Ministry of Interior and Safety of Korea. The unique cycling style, with its lack of brakes, has sparked safety concerns and raises questions about their classification under road traffic laws.
Though general safety guidelines for cycling in Korea remain, specific precautions for fixie enthusiasts, such as proper gear and control techniques, may need to be taken into account. For instance, helmets are crucial for any type of cycling, while specific shoes or feet-on-wheels methods are used by many to stop their fixies.
As for the legality of fixing-gear bikes on roads or bicycle paths, they don't qualify as bicycles under the current Road Traffic Act, which means their use may not be permitted. Given the ambiguity surrounding local regulations and the increasing popularity of fixies, it's essential for cyclists to exercise caution and consult official resources for precise guidelines.
For now, strap on those helmets, be aware of legal implications, and hone your control techniques! With the right mindset, fixies can offer a thrilling, adrenaline-pumping ride. Happy cycling!
- The Ministry of Interior and Safety of Korea has yet to establish specific safety guidelines for fixed-gear bicycles, known as 'fixies', due to their growing popularity in Seoul.
- The unique 'fixie' cycling style, which notably lacks brakes, has raised safety concerns and questions about their classification under road traffic laws in Korea.
- While general cycling safety guidelines in Korea are in place, it may be necessary for 'fixie' enthusiasts to consider additional precautions such as proper gear and control techniques.
- The use of helmets is crucial for any type of cycling, and specific shoes or feet-on-wheels methods are commonly employed by fixie riders to stop their bikes.
- Under the current Road Traffic Act in Korea, 'fixies' do not qualify as bicycles, which may limit their use on roads or designated bicycle paths.
- With the ambiguity surrounding the legality of 'fixies' and the increasing popularity of the sport, it's essential for cyclists to be cautious, consult official resources for accurate guidelines, and ensure they are in compliance with local regulations.
