Many people have found reason in taking up cycling. Some decide they want to cycle more now because the price of gas has risen so high, and because it costs so much to keep a car maintained. 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 others still are riding simply because they love to ride. 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. You will be surprised at how much more there is to a bicycle than just the looks. Contained hereafter are some hints and tips you can use to pick the bicycle that is perfect for you.
One thing that is usually the first on the list is the cost of the bike. This doesn't mean other things aren't important, like where you are going to ride or how often you will, but it does mean that the cost of the bicycle should be one of your main concerns.
You can find bicycles that range in price from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars. Don’t worry if you do not have this much money available, there are lots of ways to cut down on the amount of money you will spend on your bicycle. You could check out bicycles that are being auctioned off and could save tons of money while getting the best bike for you.
Be cautious, however, and always be sure to test the bike out before you buy it. Don't just jump on and jump off though, take a nice little ride for at least a few minutes. It's the same concept as buying a used car, there's no way you would take it without testing it.
The same rule applies to a bicycle. You really need to do this if you are going to spend a lot of money on the bicycle, and if you are going to ride try this the bicycle a lot. Choose the bicycle that you know will fit you. Not only should it be the correct size for you, but it should be easily adaptable to your lifestyle, meaning your riding style. You don't want make an investment on a bike that isn't going to feel good to ride.
How many gears will you use on a regular basis? Choose according to how you’ll ride; mountainous areas require more gears than flat land areas do. The number of gears doesn’t make one bike better than another. In actuality, you may never use all the gears. Don't waste your money on something you won't use. If your bike is going to be the main means of travel for you, you absolutely must get the number of gears you need for the situations in which you’ll ride.
How well you fit physically with your bike is what is most important. When deciding upon using a bike for transportation you need to keep this in mind. Safety is important when on a bike but do not overlook comfort, otherwise those long rides will soon grow tiresome.