There's no shortage of reasons why people are taking up cycling. There are those who decide to take up cycling because the price of gas is too high and the cost of maintenance on a vehicle is too high. 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! This article is intended to give you a head's up on what you should keep in mind when it's time to buy your bicycle.
The basic key to choosing a bicycle is to buy a bicycle that you can sit on and rest your feet flat on the floor so that you can stop yourself. Some experts, however, say that this is not a good idea. They say that it is better to give yourself a few inches between your feet and the ground to create a more comfortable cycling experience. If your feet are on the ground and your knees are bent when you sit on the seat of the bike, it generally means that the seat is sitting too low for you and too close to the crossbar. Also, if you find that your knees are bent when sitting on the bike, your knees are going to come up too high when you are pedaling your bike. What kind of handlebars you want on your bike is also a big choice. There are plenty types of handlebars to choose from. It's easier to handle a bike over rough terrain with handlebars that extend straight out. They are also better for distributing your body weight over a larger area. If you plan to use your bike for racing you will likely want to advice go with a different type of handlebar, such a handlebar is thinner and allows you to lean over the bike while you ride, this makes you more streamlined and allows you to cycle faster. If you aren't using your bike constantly, the best thing to choose is something that is simply comfortable and allows you to store your bike easily when it isn't in use.
It is important that you allow adequate room between you and the crossbar. When you choose your bike, adjust the seat up a few inches from the crossbar and then sit on the bike. You should be able to still rest your feet flat on the floor. 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. With a mountain bike a clearance of 3" will be necessary.
You should keep these things in mind when you go out and buy a bicycle, especially if you want to find the one that is right for you. It can become a frustrating process at times to try and figure out exactly what bike you need and which accessories you should get to go with it. Take your time and do some research and you’ll find the right bike before you know it.