There are several different reasons people choose to cycle as a mode of transportation. You may not even choose to ride a bicycle as a means of transportation at all. Some people take up cycling in order to exercise. Others go cycling because they compete in it as a sport. Another group of individuals take pleasure in a simple, relaxed ride through their neighborhood. Regardless of why you are taking up cycling, you are going to have to consider a variety of things when choosing the bicycle that is a perfect fit for you. These tips are intended to help you along your way.
How your cycling bicycle stops is very important. Be sure you know how your brakes work and which type you will likely need. 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. However if you use your bike regularly and on serious terrain you should go with more sturdy brakes. For such cycling you should look to disc brakes, these are located within the wheel itself and are less likely to be weakened over time or worse, fail. Believe it or not, your bicycle seat should not sit at its lowest setting, resting against the crossbar. You want to adjust it up a few inches and take those inches into account when you are choosing your bike. Adjusting your seat up a few inches will give you more clearance between you and the crossbar of your bicycle, which can add quite a bit of comfort to your ride. You want to be able to sit on the bike and place your foot on the pedal at the lowest position, and almost be able to fully extend your leg.
Don’t forget to buy your safety gear. Bicycles of then and bicycles of now are two completely different things. They are now designed to offer better protection while looking a bit better, as well. You should never even think about riding the bike without first putting on 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. These things are little clips that clip the pants leg up so they don't get tangled in the chain or the gears.
There are lots of things to think about when you are buying a cycling bicycle. From how safe read here the bicycle is to what it looks like, there are lots of choices to make. If you don’t have a lot of experience with cycling bicycles, you will probably feel overwhelmed and insecure as you start your shopping. Do your research and then you’ll feel better prepared to choose your new bike.
Before heading out to the store, learn a little bit about the available choices. It will pay off in the end.