The london trick beef? a.k.a 5th Floor Fixie Crew Implosion

Lolz at that video.

Can someone explain fixed-gear trick riding to me? Because it seems to have a pretty huge following and yet the standard of tricks is (generally) absolutely horrendous.

I don't think the other 'explanations' of fixed trick riding are altogether fair. I think that apart from it being fun (shock, horror), the appeal lies in the fact that it's a kind of acrobatics on bikes. Not everyone is naturally into 'traditional' applications of cycling, e.g. long-distance riding or road racing. Some people are naturally more interested in performing acrobatically. It broadens out the appeal of cycling.

Now, of course, fixed trick riding isn't the only kind of trick riding. You can apparently perform a lot more tricks on BMXs, and there is 'artistic cycling' (bikes for this are also fixed, incidentally), which doesn't really exist as a sport in this country. Fixed trick riding, I think, plugs that gap a little, without the structure of a 'serious sport', and much as one might complain about the limited range of tricks available, it all teaches good bike handling.

Lest we forget, it's also one of the reasons for the current popularity of cycling, and I personally think that's a good thing. I like variety, and much as you'll find people poking fun at it here, you'll also find people poking fun at pretty much any other type of bike riding at times.

And if you're still not sure, just try it sometime. Unfortunately, TrixieDix doesn't happen any more, but it was always a good fun night when it did, and if someone were able to find a new venue, that would be superb.