In recent times the western world has undergone a transportation change. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. Perhaps this because the last couple of decades have seen a major shift in the popularity of “living green.†Maybe it is because the cost of gas is just too high. Either way you will now find the roads filled with more cyclists than ever before. Have you been tempted to use a bike for your everyday transport needs? If you have then there are several things you should look at when you do.
You must make sure you get a bike that is the appropriate size for you. To do this, you will need to measure your inseam. Your inseam is the amount of inches from the bottom of your foot, up the inside of your leg to your groin. You should ideally be able to place both feet on the ground when sitting in on your bike. This means that you will be able to stop your bicycle with your feet if the brakes do not work—without having to tilt the bicycle and risk doing harm to it and to yourself. The handlebars you choose are another important aspect. As you probably know, there are many different types of handlebars. Handlebars that extend straight out give you more control over how your bike is maneuvered over rough terrain. These handlebars will also evenly distribute your weight over a larger area. For racing bikes you will want completely different handlebars, these handlebars will curve and allow you to ride your bike in a leaning position, this is to cut down on wind resistance and allow you to cycle faster. For those people who rarely use their bikes you can get away with just selecting comfortable handlebars that can article be stored away easily.
The number of gears you’ll use will also affect your choice. If you plan to ride in rocky or mountainous areas, you’ll need more gears than riding on flat land. Many beginning cyclists think that the more gears a bicycle has, the better it is. Sometimes bike riders don’t ever use all the gears on their bike. Don’t spend money on something you won’t use. Find out where you’ll ride your bike, especially if this is your main vehicle, and make sure you have enough gears to handle the areas through which you will travel.
There are many different things you should consider when the time comes to buy the perfect bicycle for yourself. There are tons of varieties of bicycles, as well as innumerable amounts of accessories available to you, so sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. Don't become discouraged; map out what you need for your bike and you'll be on your way in no time.