Bicycles, What Type Suits You?

The range of bicycles on the market is enormous. There is something about buying a new bike that makes you feel like a kid once again. On a shining brand new bike, the wind feels a little wilder in your hair and you feel as if your five years old again. There's no doubt that buying a brand-new bike is exciting. The question is what kind to buy?

Bicycles come in styles and prices to accommodate every requirement and almost every budget. Choosing from the many types on the market is a personal decision that's essentially determined by the type of cycling you want to do.

If you are a serious off-road cyclist, you'll require a sturdy mountain bike. Distance riders will want a lightweight model that provides speed and comfort. Cross-country travellers should choose touring bikes. Even companion bikes have their place with urban riders wanting to share the ride with children or partners.

The choice of types of bikes is yours and yours entirely. Specialised bikes are available to accommodate those with very special needs. If you have a bumpy commute, for instance, you'll probably require a mountain bike. Although normally heavy with a higher rolling resistance, mountain bikes run smoothly along single tracks, over rocks and along steep mountain trails.

If you shop at the market, run an urban delivery service or merely have a heavy load to bear, you ought to consider choosing a touring bicycle.

These are generally sturdy, comfortable and stable. An added feature of the touring bicycle is the numerous loops and eyelets that can be employed to attach racks and frames as storage for all of your non-cycling equipment.

Whatever kind of cycling you do, never overlook the importance of a really comfortable saddle. Some types of bikes have very comfortable recumbent seats. Others have more purposeful economy seats. The former will provide you with more comfort while cycling, and may even protect you from saddle sores.The latter will make your bicycle appear more streamlined and professional, but can be uncomfortable.

Another consideration is to purchase a sports bike with a road racing frame and provision for triple cranks. If you are heavy-set or suffer from knee problems, the correct length cranks can be very beneficial in preventing pressure from falling on the knees when you are cycling on a stiff slope.

Assuming you adjust your gearing appropriately, crank length has no effect on leverage; it just has to do with the range of motion of the knee and hip joints. Too long cranks cause excessive knee flex, and can cause pain or injury if it causes your knee to flex more than it is used to.

Buying a tandem bike is another possibility, especially if you tend to ride with a companion. They are made for two riders and are more expensive than other bikes. There are a number of pros and cons that should be carefully considered before making the investment in tandem. If you do decide to purchase a bicycle built for two, make sure you decide if you are better with a model that has 700c wheels or 26" wheels depending on weight and speed requirements

Hybrid bikes are great choices for those travelling short distances, going along well-laid cycle paths, or for those who just enjoy a relaxing ride. Hybrids feature upright seats and handlebars, so they offer optimal comfort and actually are a pleasure to ride.

Finally, if you prefer to really stand out, invest in a stylish cruiser bike. These can be fitted with a number of fancy accessories and parts, and make for a relaxing ride if you tend to take short journeys. As the name indicates, these bicycles are built for 'cruising'.

Buying a new bike is a personal decision that requires some careful thought. When you take the time to choose the right type of bike for your needs, you'll soon have a new set of wheels that will make you feel carefree and unstoppable. You'll feel just like a kid once again.

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