Fixation
The humble fixed gear bicycle was among the very first forms of bicycles ever invented. Lacking a freewheel and comprising of a single gear, it continues to be one of the simplest forms of transport. In fact, their recent increase in popularity has reasserted them at the forefront of cycling. Each city in the world has it's own unique style when it comes to fixie subculture. Similar to tribes or gangs, riders celebrate their creativity through their bikes. It becomes an extension of the individual.
The brief was to create a publication which provides an insight into the subculture and lifestyle of the fixed gear bike. The fixed rider and the independent coffee shop go hand in hand, with the best coffee shops in town being the local hangout for riders. I wanted this publication to be easily read during a quick coffee stop. I looked to inspire riders, make them feel proud of their culture and relate to the interviews inside.
Many fixed gear riders live by a minimalist lifestyle, embrace clean, contemporary design, and favour well made and ethically sourced materials. With this in mind, I designed the layout using a strong grid structure and a geometric typeface to reflect the angles and curves of the bikes. I incorporated lots of white space to help reinforce this clean, minimal aesthetic and provide an easier reading experience. The palette relies on only three colours. These reflect the interests, lifestyles and passions of the three riders interviewed, each sharing a different perspective on the industry.
To support these, I included strong photography which celebrates the variety and creativity of the subculture. The printed publication sits alongside a restored 1960s Hercules frame which I had powder coated to match the paper colour. I chose the most powerful quotes from the interviews and vinyl wrapped them on the frame.
Publication – 48 page saddle stitched printed on G.F Smith 135gsm Natural Colorplan.