Fixed-gear (track) bikes illegal in Portland

An Oregon judge has ruled that fixed-gear bicycles -- which use the rider's leg-power to brake them -- are illegal, and must be outfitted with traditional lever/caliper brakes. The cyclist who was ticketed for the offense fought it in traffic court, and was represented by a pretty sharp attorney, judging from the partial transcript here. It seems obvious that "fixies" should be lawful, since they can satisfy the statutory requirement that bikes be "equipped with a brake that enables the operator to make the braked wheels skid on dry, level, clean pavement. strong enough to skid tire." Nevertheless, the judge ruled against the cyclist -- I hope she appeals.

Now it was time for Officer Barnum to ask questions. He asked Holland,

"What would you do if your chain broke?"

Holland:

"I would use my feet."

Officer Barnum:

"What if your leg muscles had a spasm?"

Holland:

"I'm not sure...these are emergency situations."

Ginsberg interjected with a question for Holland:

"Did any of these situations happen on the day you were stopped?"

Holland:

"No."

Link (Thanks, Fipi Lele!)

Update: Emily sez, " Fixed gear bikes can have a front brake, and often do. Track bikes, TRUE track bikes, do not have a place or a way to attach a front brake."