Here is something to do the next time you visit Amsterdam. Bring your own pedals.

http://www.fixedgeargallery.com/2007/dec/2/MartijndeGroot.htm

Okay, so where are the shift levers and the brakes?

Julie,

Those bikes are all single speed, there is no shifting, and they have no brakes.

Those bikes are direct drive also called fixed gear, meaning there is no coasting, if the wheels are moving so are your pedals, you slow down using the same leg power you use to get going. They are track bikes, they are designed for speed and they are most definately not designed to go up Eastman hill.

Ryan