It is common to assume picking the right bike is an easy task. Simply finding the bike they like the look of is all there is to it, right? As long as it is comfortable that's all you need to worry about. This is wrong, the fact is there are more things to consider these days than there was a few years ago. With cycling becoming more popular in almost every area of life (transportation, lifestyle, sports, hobbies) there are more bicycles than ever to choose from. In recent times a trend has emerged of people riding bikes as their main method of transport. There are also plenty of families that cycle as a hobby. No matter why you are picking your bicycle, here are some ways to help you along.
You need to make sure you pick a bike that is the right size. To accomplish this you need know your inseam measurement. To do this, simply run a measuring tape up the inside of your leg from the bottom of your foot to your groin. Ideally you should be able to place both feet on the ground while on your bike. If you can do this you need not worry about stopping in an emergency if your brakes malfunction.
If you want to ride a road bike, you will need to subtract about nine inches from your inseam measurement. This is due to the type of tires you will be using for a road bike. Designed to work best on concrete pavements, road bikes are best suited to cycling around the city. If you are looking for a mountain bike, you will want to subtract about a foot (twelve inches) from your inseam measurement. Again this is to account for the type of tires you will be using. Mountain bike tires will be thick and designed for mountainous terrain. You can use mountain bikes for city cycling, but the opposite is not true and they are nowhere near as good on city streets as road bikes.
You also need to acquire some safety gear. Bicycle helmets have come a long way since they were first introduced. Now they offer better protection while being a little bit more stylish. You should never, ever ride your bicycle unless you are wearing your helmet. Sometimes that fraction of padding really can save your life!
If you are going to be taking your bike off road, then you need to also invest in some knee and elbow pads, as well as ankle and wrist guards. Another good idea is to buy some pants clips if you are going to be riding your bike as your primary form of transportation. These clips are designed to keep your pants from getting caught up in the gears and the chain.
When purchasing a bicycle, you have tons to consider. You have innumerable decisions to make as you choose how safe a bike to buy, as well as one that is pleasing to the eye. If you feel like you are being deluged by choices, you are perfectly normal. You can rest assured that by doing minimal research into your options, you’ll make the perfect decision for you.
Before heading out to the store, learn a little bit about the available choices. You’ll be glad why not find out more you did!