Global Sports: How To Choose A Bike Correctly

Saturday, September 25, 2010

How To Choose A Bike Correctly

By Christine Perkins

Most people 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. Cycling is increasing in popularity each day, be it for fun or as a serious mode of transport, there are now more bikes to choose from than ever before. Some people are choosing to cycle as a means of transportation on a regular basis. Lots of families have taken up cycling as a family hobby. No matter why you are picking your bicycle, here are some ways to help you along.

We have seen a change in transportation recently. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. This trend can be attributed to the idea of keeping things 'green' in a bid to take care of our planet. It doesn't hurt that gas is increasing in price either! No matter what has caused it, the fact is there are now more cyclists on the road than in a long while. Maybe you have been pondering purchasing a bike? Here are some hints to help you choose the cycling bicycle that is right for you.

The brakes on your bike are of utmost importance. You have to think about what you are most comfortable with along the lines of stopping your bicycle. If you only want a bike to use occasionally as a hobby, you can go with normal brakes which are just small pads designed to clasp the wheel when used. If you decide you want your bike for more off-roading adventures, you need a different kind of braking system that can keep up with that particular style. The best kind of braking system to choose for this style of riding is the disk brakes, because they are build to handle more and are less apt to fail under stress.

Good bicycles can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. That doesn't mean all bicycles are going to cost that much, so don't worry; there is no reason why you can't find a great bicycle that is in your price range. You could check out bicycles that are being auctioned off and could save tons of money while getting the best bike for you.

The type of handlebars you choose is also important. Not all handlebars are the same. It's easier to handle a bike over rough terrain with handlebars that extend straight out. They are also better for distributing your body weight over a larger area. If you are using your bike for racing, then you want to pick some handlebars that are more slim and allow you to lean forward on your bike so you can go faster. If you aren't going to be using your bicycle very often, you might simply opt for a handlebar style that feels comfortable and makes it easier to store your bicycle while you aren't using it.

For road bikes take away 9 inches from the total of your inseam. This is because of the size of the tires on your road bike. Road bikes are meant for city cycling-the tires are thinner and work best on concrete paving. 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 size of tires. Mountain bike tires are thicker than road bike tires, designed for rocky terrain. Mountain bikes can travel on city pavement but that is not what they are designed to do.

Another thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. Bicycle helmets are something completely different than they once were. Not only are they made to better protect you, but they are also made to appeal a bit more aesthetically. You should never, ever ride your bicycle unless you are wearing your helmet. Sometimes that fraction of padding really can save your life! It wouldn't hurt to also grab some elbow and knee guards, as well as ankle and wrist guards, just in case you decide to take your bike off the road. If you are going to be using your bicycle as your sole means of transportation, you should think of investing in some pants clips as well. Pants clips are designed to hold your pants in place so they don't get caught up in the chain or the gears of the bike.

You will see there are many things you should consider when you are finding the bike that's right for you. It can be a bit tedious and frustrating to try and figure out what all you need when you are buying a bicycle. As long as you go prepared and know what you need and are looking for, you can shed some of that frustration and find the perfect bike.

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