Single speed bikes

The Marmite bike! You either like them or you don't. Often forgoing brakes or even a freewheel, single speed bikes are a cult phenomenon. Increasingly popular with hardened commuters, the these simple machines were mainly the preserve of cycle couriers across the globe due to their maintenance fee nature and inexpensive looking exteriors, making them of no interest to potential thieves. Without doubt they are uncomplicated, fast and mechanically reliable, but probably not for the unprepared or inexperience beginner?