Advice on Choosing the Right Bike

July 6, 2012 - PRLog -- It's been said that some people feel the same way about bicycles that they do about potato chips: They can't have just one. It's a sentiment I understand completely, especially since different bikes are meant to do different things. Those of us who take biking seriously often need different types of bicycles as a result. But, if you're not the type of person who'd like to have dozens of bikes cluttering up the hallways, these tips may help you to find just the right bike for your needs.

Begin by thinking about where you plan to ride your bike. Most bike shops organize their bikes by type, meaning that sturdy bikes go with sturdy bikes while light bikes go with light bikes. If you know where you'll ride your bike, you'll know just where to look once you enter a bike shop. These terms might also help you to sound like an expert as you shop:

•   Road bike. These bikes are light, and they're made for people who'd like to zip around on a bike that's not too hard to propel forward.
•   Mountain bike. This is a heavy, sturdy bike designed to take abuse on the trail or the beach.
•   Urban or commuter bike. These bikes are also light, but they have a bit of a thicker wheel, so they're suitable for a few gravel roads. They also tend to allow riders to sit in an upright position, so cars can see you a bit easier.
•   Cruiser bikes. These are big, lavish bikes with wide tires and wide seats. These bikes get big points for style, but they can be a bit heavy and impractical for daily use.

I always recommend that people spend time riding the bike before they commit to buying it. Just cruising around the parking lot won't do the trick, either. Ideally, try to take the bike up a hill and then maneuver it back down again. This way, you'll see how easy the bike is to manipulate and you'll be able to make a more informed choice. In addition, it pays to know your budget before you even head out shopping. Bikes can be expensive, and you may end up with sticker shock if you don't keep your budget firmly in mind.

About the Author:

Mark Zajdek is an avid runner and cyclist who lives in the Baltimore area. He is currently training to compete in the 5k Race for Chesapeake Bay. During the day, Mark Zajdek works for the United Parcel Service.  For more information visit http://www.quora.com/markzajdek