Bicycles are a great way for transportation and exercise at the same time. For many people, cycling is an enjoyable and exciting sport that people of all ages can do. However, last year, bikes became more popular than ever. A lot of people were stuck at home during the Covid 19 lockdown, looking for new ways to go out and exercise, so naturally, bike sales went up. Unfortunately, those who chose bikes randomly ended up not using them at all as they didn’t get the right ones for their needs.
Professional cyclists say that getting a bike should be treated the same as getting a new car. There are many factors that you should be aware of before making a purchase. It might be a bit confusing at first to know what kind of bike would suit you better, but once you’re aware of all the types and differences between them, you’ll be able to choose the right one for you. Whether you’re getting your first bike ever, or you’re upgrading, you should know what to look for. Here’s how you can make the right choice.
Budget
Good quality bikes, start at around $300 and can go up to $1500 based on the type of bike, quality of the frame, type of tires, brake system, and brand. There are some cheaper options available in the market, but you will find them poorly assembled with low-quality materials. It’s better to stay away from these bikes as there’s a high chance that it will not be comfortable to ride, and you might fall and get yourself injured. For a beginner, you will not be doing any tricks or techniques, so it’s preferable to get a basic bike that suits your needs. If you don’t have the budget for a new bike or you want to try it out to see whether you should buy a new one or not, you can always get pre-loved bikes. There are a lot of people out there who want to enhance their skills and get a more advanced bicycle. As long as the bike is in good condition and needs little or no repair, it’s good to go.
Why You Need Them
The most important question that you have to ask yourself when getting a bike is, “Why do I need it?” For instance, do you want to be a professional biker? Do you want it for transportation? Or is it for exercising? There are different types of bikes, and each type fills a specific purpose. If you’re going to be riding on unpaved roads, then a mountain bike is the ideal choice for you.
Mountain bikes are known to be solid and sturdy on unpaved roads and are good for adventures. Professional mountain bikers in this guide talk about the different types of mountain bikes and how to choose the perfect one based on your weight and height. If you want a bike for transportation or exercise within your city, then a road bike or fitness bike would be suitable for you as they are perfect for paved roads. Cruise and city bikes are also great if you’re riding within the city, but you will not be comfortable riding them for a long distance.
Size and Fit
If you don’t get the right bike size, your ride will always be uncomfortable. It can even cause you back or neck pain. When you’re choosing the bike keep in mind the frame size, saddle, pedal position, handlebar height. It’s essential to take your body measurements before you get a bike. A little research before shopping for a new bike to know the suitable handlebar height and pedal position for you is a must.
You can try the bike before you buy it to ensure that it fits you well. You can always get a bike with an adjustable seat, handlebars, and pedals. However, non-adjustable handlebars are usually sturdier than adjustable ones.
Choosing the right bike can be overwhelming, even to professionals. Of course, if you’re just upgrading, it will be easier for you as you already know what to look for and what to avoid. Still, you have to consider the above-mentioned points, to ensure that you’re getting a better bike than what you used to have. If you’re a first-timer you will have to try it before purchasing and if you’re getting it online, then you should buy it from a trusted site that has many positive reviews and feedback. Even if you’re getting a used bike, you should make sure that it’s in a good condition and doesn’t need to be repaired.