As you know, there are numerous reasons to start cycling. Some folks are having a hard time keeping up with the rising cost of gasoline and maintenance bills, so they choose to ride a bike. Others choose it because riding a bike is better for the environment than travelling in a car or using public transportation.
Still others simply ride bicycles for fun. Whatever your reason for going cycle shopping there are some definite criteria that you need to think about before you make your choice. There is more to choosing the right cycling bicycle than the colors used to paint it! Here are some helpful tips that you can use to help you decide which bicycle you should buy.
How your cycling bicycle stops is very important. You have to think about what you are most comfortable with along the lines of stopping your bicycle. Those who do not use their bikes very regularly will be happy with normal brakes, those which simply squeeze the tire with two small pads to slow the bike down. If you decide you want your bike for more off-roading adventures, you need a different kind of braking system that can keep up with that particular style. 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. Which handlebars to go with is also a serious decision. There are many different types to choose from, each better for specific roles. Those handlebars which extend horizontally out offer great control for maneuvering. They are good for distributing your weight as you ride over a bigger area. For racing bikes you will want completely different handlebars, these handlebars will curve and allow you to ride your bike in a leaning position, this is to cut down on wind resistance and allow you to cycle faster. For those of us who only plan to use our bikes sporadically, you may wish to go other with a handlebar style that is comfortable and yet easily stored away.
It is important you allow for room between you and the crossbar. When browsing for a bike try some out, make sure the seat is a few inches above the crossbar. Make sure you can place both feet on the ground if need be. Which bike you get will greatly alter the clearance you will require. As an example, with a touring bike you will only require around 1". For mountain bikes you will require somewhere around 3 inches.
There are lots of things to think about when you are trying to find the right cycling bicycle to fit your needs. It can become a bit overwhelming when going shopping for a bike and accessories because there is just so much to choose from. As long as you go about the process slowly and research a little before you go, you should have no problem finding the perfect bike.