Global Sports: Choosing the Best Commuter Bike

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Choosing the Best Commuter Bike

By Eric Anderson


If you're looking into purchasing a commuter bike, there are plenty of factors to take into account when considering which style of bike to go with. Since you'll be riding this thing to and from work every single day, you should not take this decision lightly. Any style of bike can be a commuter bike as long as you are taking it to work, but not every bike is fit for every commute. So here is a brief overview of the main things you should consider when deciding on your commuter bike.

The first thing to consider is the type of terrain you will encounter on your way to work. You should choose a commuter bike that best fits your ride. Multiple-gear bikes are better for hills and off-road paths, while flat and paved paths are the best fit for a fixed gear bike.

Now you need to ask yourself how skilled you are at biking, as well as how physically fit you are. Less-experienced or out-of-shape bikers should definitely consider a bike with multiple gears rather that a fixed-gear bike.

Don't forget to consider how you'll be transporting all of your work stuff. You'll probably need a change of clothes, lunch, laptop computer, etc. A backpack might work, but if not you may have to consider some sort of attachment to your bike. Most styles of bike allow for an attachment, but this is definitely something you need to look into. Also, the added weight can have a big impact on your commute.

Now that you've taken into account all the major factors, you basically have three choices. A mountain bike offers multiple gears and allows you to easily navigate off-road terrain. A road bike is perfect for a more flat and paved ride, or even hills if you're more experienced and in good physical shape. There are also commuter-specific bikes. These are fixed-gear bikes with more relaxed positions. Other styles include touring bikes, comfort bikes and hybrid cyclo-cross bikes. Each style has its own pros and cons, and you should definitely research each one before you come to a decision.




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