I’ve written a few books on the design and aesthetic of bicycles but none so far have delved into the culture behind these bicycles quite like how this new book called Fixed: Global Fixed-Gear Bike Culture does. The book which is written by Andrew Edwards and Max Leonard (and published by Laurence King Publishers) is an all-inclusive look at the history, the formation, the design, and the aesthetics most commonly associated with riding “fixies”.

In its roughly 144 pages, you’ll find over 350 color photos of amazing athletes — pioneers in the sport of fixed-gear bike racing — and interesting information like how the first riders in the Tour de France completed the entire race on a fixed-gear bike. But what would a bike book be without some visual eye-candy of vintage and modern frames, customized to each riders’ specific tastes. If that’s what you want, Fixed can deliver it with more punch than any cycling related book I’ve seen on the shelves yet.

From the early days of track racing to the urban streets occupied by today’s toughest and hardest riding messengers, to those that simply ride fixed for tricks and sport, Fixed is your view into a rapidly growing cycling world community. Check it out and get Fixed on Amazon.com for just over $16. Trust me, it’s a deal you won’t want to pass up!