The View from South El Monte: A 2026 Study on Single-Speed Gearing

The Engineering Perspective (Since 2002)

Our facility in South El Monte has been a hub for bicycle engineering and distribution for over 24 years. Having handled, tested, and shipped hundreds of thousands of bicycles, our team stays curious about the fine details that define a ride. We regularly look at the specs used by the industry’s leading brands to understand how those choices serve different types of riders.

Names like Retrospec, sixthreezero, and Tuesday Cycles are icons on the boardwalk today. They have done a tremendous job of making single-speed cruising accessible and stylish. In this report, we take a neutral, technical look at how these market leaders—alongside our own Firmstrong line—approach the specific mechanics of single-speed gearing and coastal durability.

1. Single-Speed Gearing: The Mechanics of the "First Pedal"

In a single-speed bike, your gear ratio is your only "transmission." There are no shifters to help you, so the choice between an 18T and 22T rear sprocket is a deliberate design philosophy. In our internal testing and product reviews, we’ve observed three distinct approaches:

• The Efficiency Standard (44T/18T): Found on the Retrospec Chatham, the Micargi Touch, and the latest 630 Around the Block. This 2.44 ratio is the industry benchmark for riders who prioritize top-end speed. Once you reach a cruising pace on a flat path, this setup feels direct and efficient. It’s a solid choice for those who enjoy maintaining a steady, fast clip.

• The Effortless Start (44T/22T): Tuesday Cycles takes a thoughtful path with their June and August models. By pairing a standard chainring with a larger 22T rear sprocket, they achieve a 2.00 ratio. It’s a smart solution for a zero-strain start. It’s designed to make the bike feel incredibly light during the first few pedal strokes, making it a standout option for very relaxed, casual neighborhood rides.

• The Balanced Cruise (40T/18T): This is the specification we maintain for the Firmstrong Urban series. This 2.22 ratio acts as a middle ground. It offers a lighter start-up than the 44T standard, yet provides a bit more mechanical momentum and "glide" than a 22T rear setup once you’re up to speed. It’s engineered for the rider who wants an easy start without sacrificing a natural cruising rhythm.

2. Materials: Designing for Different Environments

All of these respected brands build high-quality equipment, but their choice of materials often aligns with where they expect the bike to be ridden:

• Classic Style and Sturdiness: Brands like Retrospec and sixthreezero are experts at creating that iconic, heavy-duty cruiser silhouette. Their use of high-tensile steel provides a sturdy, grounded ride that many people love. For inland riders or those in drier climates, these steel components offer a beautiful combination of classic aesthetics and dependable value.

• Engineering for the Coast: Because our facility is so close to the Pacific, we’ve always focused on Coastal Longevity. While steel frames can absolutely be enjoyed near the coast with proper care, we spec our Firmstrong bikes with Aluminum Alloy Handlebars/Stems and 14G Stainless Steel Spokes. We see these as an additional layer of corrosion resistance for riders who want minimal maintenance in the high-humidity salt air.

A Choice of Personal Style

We have a great deal of respect for the engineering each of these brands brings to the market. Ultimately, the right single-speed cruiser depends on your personal riding style:

• Retrospec or sixthreezero are excellent if you appreciate a classic steel feel and a gear ratio (2.44) built for maintaining speed on long, flat roads.

• Tuesday Cycles is a fantastic pick if your primary goal is the lightest possible pedaling experience (2.00 ratio) at a very relaxed pace.

• Firmstrong is designed for the rider who wants a balanced gear (2.22) and values the added environmental protection of stainless steel and alloy for life near the ocean.

All specifications referenced are based on manufacturer published data for 2024-2026 single-speed models. All product names and brands are property of their respective owners.