There is no shortage of reasons for choosing to cycle. Some folks are having a hard time keeping up with the rising cost of gasoline and maintenance bills, so they choose to ride a bike. Others choose it because riding a bike is better for the environment than travelling in a car or using public transportation.
And then there are those who choose to cycle because they simply love it. No matter your reason for choosing to take up cycling, you need to know some important things before you decide on your first bicycle. You will be surprised at how much more there is to a bicycle than just the looks. Here are some helpful tips that you can use to help you decide which bicycle you should buy.
We’d be lying if we tried to tell you that fashion shouldn’t play into your choice. The fact is that we all have color and style preferences. These preferences must be listened to when getting your next bike. Using style and fashion preferences as your main criteria is silly, unless you are only getting a bike to look good. You really need to look at safety and comfort issues before any others. After finding bikes that are both safe and comfy, then you can see which ones look the best to you. Believe it or not, your bicycle seat should not sit at its lowest setting, resting against the crossbar. You always want to change the position of the seat so that it is a few inches higher than normal, so keep this in mind when picking your bike. Adjusting your seat up a few inches will give you more clearance between you and the crossbar of your bicycle, which can add quite a bit of comfort to your ride. You want to be able to sit on the bike and place your foot on the pedal at the lowest see it here position, and almost be able to fully extend your leg.
Another thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. Bicycle helmets are something completely different than they once were. Not only are they made to better protect you, but they are also made to appeal a bit more aesthetically. You must always wear your helmet when you are riding your bike, no matter what. You don't even realize how important this thing can be in saving your life.
It wouldn't hurt to also get some elbow and knee pads, and some wrist and ankle guards if you are going to take your bike off-road. Pants clips are another great investment, especially if you are using your bike as your sole means of transportation. Pants clips are designed to hold your pants in place so they don't get caught up in the chain or the gears of the bike.
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. You need to feel safe but also comfortable on your bike, otherwise you won't enjoy riding it!