As you know, there are numerous reasons to start 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. Some are 'going green' and taking an active part in trying to help our environment by choosing to ride a bike over a car.
And then there are those who choose to cycle because they simply love it. If you fall into these categories or are in one of your own and you are shopping for a new bike, take the time to read up on some of the things you should know before buying. Choosing the right bicycle is more than just picking the one that's the best looking. Outlined hereafter are some pointers you can take into consideration when going out to buy your bike.
Consider how the bicycle brakes, for one. You need to make sure you understand how your brakes work and what kind of brakes you need your bike to have. 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. For more hardcore cycling on tough terrain you may want some better brakes. Disc brakes sit within the wheels themselves and work are less likely to give out under stress. You shouldn't ever sit the seat at the lowest setting, which means sitting on the crossbar. You always want to bring the seat up at least a few inches when you begin to ride, so keep this in mind when you are picking your bike. You will have a much more comfortable experience when riding if you are able to get some clearance between the crossbar of the bicycle and you. The best way to adjust your seat to the correct height is to place your foot on the pedal at the lowest setting and bring the seat up as high as it can go so that your leg is almost fully extended.
Another essential element in a comfortable cycling experience is the angle of the seat(also her latest blog known as the saddle). There are a variety of options for tilting the bicycle seat. You might find that a perfectly flat seat is a little uncomfortable and that you prefer to lean forward a little bit. Continue to adjust your seat until it feels the best for you. You may find that if you leave the seat in the flat position, the narrow part of the seat will not allow you to comfortably bend forward.
You will see there are many things you should consider when you are finding the bike that's right for you. There are so many different bicycles and accessories available that it can feel overwhelming as you try to decide which items are best for you. 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.