There is no shortage of reasons for choosing to cycle. Some people choose to ride bicycles because they cannot afford the cost of gas and automobile maintenance. Some people decide to take up cycling because it is a healthier choice for the environment.
And others still are riding simply because they love to ride. If you fall into these categories or are in one of your own and you are shopping for a new bike, take the time to read up on some of the things you should know before buying. Bicycles should not just be chosen because of their looks or their brand name. Contained hereafter are some hints and tips you can use to pick the bicycle that is perfect for you.
One of the most important things to keep in mind is the cost of the bike. Sure you should also consider things like where you will be riding and how often you will be riding, but your other major criteria will almost always be the price of the bicycle.
The price ranges of good bikes go anywhere from the hundreds to the thousands. The beauty of all this is you can save a ton of money when purchasing your bicycle, if you just know where to look for it. The local auctions are some of the best ways to find wonderful deals on things like bicycles and equipment so you won't find yourself spending too much money. The handlebars you choose are another important aspect. There are many different types to choose from, each better for specific roles. Common handlebars which simply extend straight out are good for regular cycling, they offer good maneuverability especially when used on hard terrain. These kinds of handlebars are also great in distributing your weight evenly. 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. For people who rarely use their bike they will want handlebars which allow the bike to be stored away efficiently, but which also offer some level of comfort when cycling.
Be certain to leave adequate room between yourself and your bikes crossbar. When selecting a bike make sure you move the seat up slightly, to around a few inches above the height of the crossbar. Make certain you can still place both feet flatly on the ground. You will want to leave different clearance lengths depending on the type of bicycle you are buying. A touring bike for example will require around 1", perhaps slightly more. However for a click here to find out more mountain bike you will need 3" between the crossbar and yourself.
Your main priority is the physical fit of your bike. When deciding upon using a bike for transportation you need to keep this in mind. You want to feel comfortable and safe as you travel from one point to another.