The choice to utilize a bicycle as your main mode of transportation, is beneficial for a number of reasons. There are many different reasons to cycle, and some have nothing to do with being a preferred method of getting to point A to point B. Some people have decided to take up cycling as a way to exercise. The thrill of competition draws other people to the sport of cycling. Another group of individuals take pleasure in a simple, relaxed ride through their neighborhood. Regardless of why you are taking up cycling, you are going to have to consider a variety of things when choosing the bicycle that is a perfect fit for you. These tips are intended to help you along your way.
It goes without saying that choosing the correctly sized bike is of utmost importance. The measurement of your inseam is needed for this. Simply measure the distance from your groin to the bottom of your foot, down the inside of your leg. Ideally you should be able to place both feet on the ground while 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.
If you intend to get a road bike then take 9" away from your total inseam. This is to account for the site size of tires you will use on a road bike. These tires will be thinner and designed for efficiency on concrete roads or pavements. If you are looking for a mountain bike, you will want to subtract about a foot (twelve inches) from your inseam measurement. Mountain bikes have different tires than a road bike. Mountain bike tires will be thick and designed for mountainous terrain. You can always use a mountain bike for city cycling, although this is not how they are best used.
It is important you allow for room between you and the crossbar. When you get a bike be sure to move the seat up a couple of inches from the crossbar. Make certain you can still place both feet flatly on the ground. You will want to leave different clearance lengths depending on the type of bicycle you are buying. A good example is a touring bike, with these bikes you will only need around 1" difference. For mountain bikes you will require somewhere around 3 inches.
You will see there are many things you should consider when you are finding the bike that's right for you. It can become a frustrating process at times to try and figure out exactly what bike you need and which accessories you should get to go with it. Take your time and do some research and you’ll find the right bike before you know it.