Fixie bikes are cool in Washington DC

There's no denying it.  Fixie bikes are cool!  They look cool and they ride cool.  Aesthetically pure and beautiful to anyone who appreciates the true essence of bicycle design, it's no wonder they are the rage of the modern urban hipster.  Just ask the Washington Post.  Without brakes though, they're also way dangerous to ride.  But hey, whoever said hip comes without a price?  Here's my two cents: if you're new to cycling, or just can't resist the temptation to go "fixie," do yourself a favor and get one with brakes.  Your body (and your knees) will thank me for it!