[Yak] multi-speed fixed...

[Harvey Sachs]

The Rivendell Quickbeam is designed around this concept: dual chainrings 
and a flip-flop. It uses long semi-horizontal dropouts, so the brake 
doesn't have to be readjusted. It is, however, a large wheel bike. I've 
seen one or two on the road, with big smiles on the rider faces. 
http://www.rivbike.com/products/list/bicycle_models#product=50-150.

This Spring, there is supposed to appear a new version of the 
SturmeyArcher 3-speed fixed gear from the 1950s. The new one is pictured 
at 
http://sunrace-sturmeyarcher.blogspot.com/2009/03/2009-taipei-international-bicycle-show.html.

I use the original version on an early 50s "Ephgrave," thanks to a gift 
decades ago from a friend. They are almost "unobtainium" now, so I'm 
delighted that the new version is coming. It will have slightly wider 
gear range, and I hope it will have a bit less back-lash than the 
original.  I think it will be a much nicer solution that the flip-flop 
exercise.
harvey sachs
mcLean va