Two speed or One speed? Which is best

Deciding whether a single-speed or multi-speed bike is "best" depends entirely on your needs and riding style. 

Single-Speed Bikes:

• Best for:
  • Flat terrain: If you live and ride in a relatively flat area, a single-speed bike is an excellent choice.
  • Simplicity and low maintenance: Single-speed bikes have fewer components, making them simpler and easier to maintain.
  • Urban commuting and short rides: Their simplicity and ease of use are ideal for commuting and shorter rides in the city.
  • Budget-conscious riders: Single-speed bikes are often more affordable due to their simpler construction.
  • Those looking for a challenge/fitness: Riding a single-speed, especially uphill, can build leg strength and improve pedaling efficiency.
• Not ideal for:
  • Hilly terrain: Climbing steep hills can be very challenging and require significant effort on a single-speed bike.
  • Long-distance riding: The lack of gear options can lead to fatigue and discomfort on longer rides.
  • Diverse terrain or off-road adventures: The limited gear range can be a disadvantage on varied landscapes. 

Multi-Speed Bikes (including bikes with more than two speeds):

• Best for:
  • Varied terrains: Multi-speed bikes allow you to adjust your gear ratio to suit different terrains, including flat roads, hills, and inclines.
  • Climbing hills: You can shift to a lower gear to make climbing hills easier and more efficient.
  • Faster speeds: Multi-speed bikes offer a wider range of speeds for faster acceleration and greater control on downhill descents.
  • Long-distance riding: The ability to choose the optimal gear can reduce strain and fatigue on longer rides.
  • Off-road adventures: Multiple gears are essential for tackling off-road trails and challenging landscapes.
• Not ideal for:
  • Low maintenance: Multi-speed bikes have more components, which require more maintenance than single-speed bikes.
  • Simplicity: The added gears and shifters can be more complicated to use and maintain. 

In summary:

If you are primarily riding on flat terrain for commuting or shorter rides and value simplicity and low maintenance, a single-speed bike may be the best choice. Steed Bikes mentions single speed bikes being ideal for urban commuting. 

However, if you plan to ride on hilly terrain, cover longer distances, or venture off-road, a multi-speed bike will offer the versatility and performance you need. Sixthreezero says if you are going to be cruising around the neighborhood or going on casual rides in the park, stick with a single speed. 

Ultimately, the best bike for you is the one that best suits your intended use and riding style.