What different kinds of bikes do you have?
We currently sell four unique series of bicycles – Hi-Ten, CRMO, 6061 Track, and the City Series. To learn more about the bicycles in each series navigate to their pages in the Shop menu above.
How much do the bikes weigh?Our bikes weigh anywhere from 17-25 pounds depending on the size and model. For more information please check out the specs section of the bikes product page.
Do the bikes come with brakes?Yes! All Tribe bikes come with a front brake system while rear brakes are sold separately.
Do you make women’s bikes?We sure do! While all Tribe fixed gear bikes are unisex we have specifically designed our Omafiets models in our City Series to be just for women. Omafiets is the Dutch word for women’s city bike – literally translating to “Grandma’s Bike” – and is one of the most popular forms of transportation in Europe, dating back almost a hundred years. We also have a special line devoted for men called the Opafiets.
What are the frames made of?The materials used in the frames dictate the quality and price of the bicycle. We have various types of materials used in our bicycle frames and forks. In many cases we actually name the series of bicycles after the materials use – we care that much. Our Hi-Ten models are made of durable high tensile steel, a common material widely seen in lower cost bike models today. Next we have the CRMO series made of triple-butted 4130 Chromoly Steel. Top notch when it comes to affordable fixed gear riding. Our 6061 Track Series is made of 6061 grade aluminum alloy. The only series not named after the material is our City Series which features great quality and affordable European styled bicycles.
How much assembly do I have to do for my bike once I purchase it?We highly recommend you take your bike to a bike shop to be assembled by a professional mechanic. Each Tribe bike comes 90% assembled. You need to unpack, attach the handlebars and front tire, adjust the front brake, add the pedals, and make sure it is tuned properly.
What tools do I need to put my bike together?Again, we do highly recommend you take your bike to a bike shop to be assembled by a professional mechanic. You may have many of the tools needed, and can use these for occasional tune ups. A professional mechanic will also have the right tools to get you going. Below are the tools you will need:
- 4 - Allen wrench – chain tensioner
- 5- Allen wrench – handlebars, rear rack bolts, water bottle bolts, brake pads
- 6-Allen wrench – seat post, stem, brake lever
- 7-Allen wrench – also acts as a screwdriver
- Bike Wrench (15 mm) – pedals, wheel bolts
A fixed gear bike is a single speed bike in which the rear cog is attached to the bicycle’s rear wheel, meaning whenever the wheels are in motion the pedals are too. So basically you are pedaling all the time and do not have the ability to caost while riding.
The single speed bike has many similarities and is classified in the same category as the fixed gear bicycle however it differs in the way that you can coast or cruise while riding. This is better suited for a more relaxed style of riding.
Which style should I ride – fixed or single speed?That is up to you! You can ride fixed or single speed on our bikes due to our flip-flop rear hubs. Flip-flop hubs are rear hubs that are threaded to work with fixed or single speed cogs, allowing you to choose your riding style. So if you like to take it easy and cruise – ride with the free wheel. If you like to ride hard and live on the edge – ride fixed cog.
Why do my wheels not have quick release levers?Our bikes are modeled after the classic track bicycles originating from Japan and therefore do not have any quick release levers. In track racing your wheel -set and seat post are both in a fixed position and do not need to be released in a quick manner, therefore they are absent on most models. The plus side to this is that without the proper tools you can’t undo the wheels or seat making it pretty tough for the average burglar!
What kind of handlebar options do I have?All single speed bikes come stock with riser bars. For Hi-Ten and CRMO bikes we give the rider the option of four different handlebar choices. Bullhorn – With four hand position possibilities the bullhorn bars are super comfortable and great for any style of riding. Drop Bars – Designed for a quicker style of riding due to the steep curve (drop) in the handlebars. This causes the rider to have a more forward riding position leading to faster speeds. Pista Bars – otherwise known as track drop bars, they are designed for a more aggressive style of riding. Most commonly used for racing, these handlebars are best for those who love a good hard sprint.
If I upgrade my handlebars do I still get to keep my Riser Bars?You bet! We’ll include both handlebars in the box we ship to you.