In the last couple of decades a major shift has been happening in transportation. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. Perhaps the trend can be put down to 'green' thinking, or maybe just the prices of gas are starting to get to people. The fact is there are plenty more cyclists on the road now than there were just a few years ago. Have you been tempted to use a bike for your everyday transport needs? Here are some hints to help you choose the cycling bicycle that is right for you.
Consider how the bicycle brakes, for one. Brakes are very important on a bike, you need to understand how they work and what type you will most likely need for your bike. Those who do not use their bikes very regularly will be happy with normal brakes, those which simply squeeze the tire with two small pads to slow the bike down. However if you use your bike regularly and on serious terrain you should go with more sturdy brakes. These brakes are called 'disc brakes' and are located within the wheel, they are far more reliable than normal brakes and are less likely to fail over time. Your bicycle seat should not be at the lowest setting, which is sitting atop 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. When you bring the seat up a few inches, you are going to have more room between the crossbar and you, and this will make for a much more comfortable ride. The ideal seat height can be achieved, by ensuring that your leg is very close to completely extended, when your foot is at it's lowest position while on the pedal.
Be sure to allow room between the crossbar and yourself. When browsing for a bike try some out, make sure the seat is a few inches above the crossbar. Sit on it and make sure you can rest your feet flat to the ground. Each type of bike requires different clearances. 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. As you can see, there are many things to take into consideration when deciding on the perfect bicycle for you. Some people will need a bicycle that can stand up under a lot of wear and tear. These folks are looking to find a bike that allows them More about the author to get where they are going without having to worry about a breakdown. For others, price is a major factor. Research is important when purchasing anything, especially a bike. You will also want to shop around to find the best deal. Don’t just buy the first bicycle that looks good—you could get stuck with a lemon!