How to Pick the Right Bike

Choosing a bike can be a confusing and tedious exercise for novice cyclists. Read on for some awesome tips on how to choose the right bike for you. 

Choose A Bike That Suits Your Needs

The first tip for how to choose a bike is to clarify your reasons for buying a bike. The first thing a good bicycle salesman will ask is what you need a bike for. He would recommend a different bike for cycling around your neighborhood and a different one for taking part in competitive sport. 

There are four main types of bikes that you will have to choose from. Mountain bikes are meant for off-road riding whereas road bikes are meant for city use and are built for speed. Hybrid bikes mix the best features of mountain bikes and road bikes. So, they aren’t as fast as road bikes but can be used on both city roads and rough terrain. Finally, cruisers are leisure bikes used for enjoyable scenic rides e.g. on boardwalks along the beach. 

There are even more types of bikes that your salesman can discuss with you. Once you are clear on what you will use your new bike for, it will be easy to choose the right bike. 

Know Your Budget

The next tip you should consider when answering the question “what kind of bike should I get” is your budget. Bike prices range from $80 to $1000 so you can easily find a bike within your budget. If you have a limited budget you can also find good bikes in charity shops whereby people donate used bikes. Some shops also sell second hard bikes so you can get higher range bikes at mid-range or even low-end prices. 

Find A Bicycle Frame That Fits Your Build

Another important tip for how to pick a bicycle is to find one that fits your frame. Riding a bike that is too small or too large can be uncomfortable and bad for your posture. A bike that doesn’t fit your frame can also be hard to control which may even lead to accidents. 

Ask your bike salesman to help you find a bike that fits your frame. A general rule is that a bike’s frame size should be about 0.65 times your inseam. Once you choose a suitable bike, ensure that the seat is adjusted to the right height for you. Also, make sure that your reach to the handlebars is comfortable for you. 

Choose The Right Gears And Suspension

Another consideration you should have when wondering ‘what bike should I get?’ is the type of gears, brakes, and suspension required. If you have a low fitness level and will be riding your bike across hilly terrain, then you should get a bike with many gears. But if you are very fit or you will be riding your bike on flat surfaces then you can manage with a bike with fewer gears. 

When it comes to suspension, make sure you get a bike with front suspension if you will be riding on rough terrain. The suspension will prevent you from feeling the full impact of your bike hitting rough patches on the road. City bikes on the other hand won’t require much if any suspension as roads are often smooth.

Do A Test Ride

Finally, before you select a bike to buy, make sure you take it for a test ride. During the test ride, look out for how comfortable the bike is and how well it maneuvers different terrains and corners. Check that the brakes work well and that it can carry you as well as whatever load you intend to be carrying when cycling. Test drive a few different styles of bikes to find the right fit for you.

Take Your Time To Pick The Right Bike

Choosing the right bike for you will take some time so don’t be in a hurry. Use the above tips to choose the right bike for you. For more tips on cycling read the rest of our blog.