Buying a brand new bike can be one of the most exciting experiences. But when it comes to actually picking a single model, a lot of people are hesitant whether they will make the right choice. For that reason, it’s important to be well-informed about all the different types of bikes and consider the different features they have.
You can start by deciding what type of riding you’ll most commonly do. When looking to buy bicycles, you’ll come across a few common types – road, mountain, city/commute, and hybrid bikes. The type of terrain you plan to ride on and the distance you intend to cover should play a crucial role in the selection process.
For instance, if you’re looking to venture off the beaten trail, then your choice is pretty simple – a mountain bike with knobby, wide tyres, strong brakes, a flat handlebar, and shock and vibration absorbing suspension. The only tough choice you’ll have to make is the wheel size. However, there are standard wheel sizes for mountain bikes – 29, 27.5 and 26 inch. If you plan on riding on smooth trails you should consider larger wheels.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to spend most of your time riding on concrete, you have more options. On one hand, that’s a good problem to have, on the other, an inexperienced buyer won’t be able to make the best choice. Depending on your goals and needs, you might want a commuter, road bike or a hybrid. Road bikes typically feature skinny, smooth tyres and a carved handlebar. They force the rider into a bent-over position, which is best suited for achieving higher speed.
Commuter bikes range from models acting as stylish fashion accessories, to sturdy workhorses. They typically have utilitarian features like fender mounts, low-maintenance drivetrains, rack mounts and an upright frame design.
Lastly, hybrid bikes provide stability and comfort thanks to the upright riding position they force you into, and the thick tyres. Hybrid bikes are basically a compromise that allows you to easily ride on dirt-packed roads and on city streets.
When it’s all said and done, looking to buy bicycles will depend on where, how long, and how hard you want to ride. Hybrids are a great solution for beginners as they’re lightweight and fun, plus they allow you to easily run errands, commute, ride with your family, or cruise the rail-trail.
