You have decided to take up cycling to get some exercise and
enjoy some leisure activity outdoors. After all, you had great
fun as a child riding your bike. Now seems the right time to do
it again! Here are 8 tips to choosing the right bike for you.
1. Buy a bike from a bike shop
Purchasing from a bike shop will usually get you staff that
are more knowledgeable to help you with your purchasing decision,
a handy repair shop should you require some work on your bike,
and helpful staff that will be willing to help you after you've
purchased your bike. You will also usually be purchasing a superior
quality bike at a bike shop. Yes the chain stores are full of
bikes to choose from and sometimes there pricing can be quite
tempting. Depending on the type of riding you will be doing,
they may not be your best choice.
2. Check the handle bar height
You need to stand with your legs straddling the bike. Then check
to see that the top bar is at least 1-3 inches away from your
body. This is good correct fit.
3. Check the seat height
Sit on the seat. From the seated position, you should be able
to comfortably place the balls of your feet on the ground without
tilting the bike. In other words both feet at the same time
should be able to touch the ground.
4. Handle Bar reach
Sit on the seat of the bike in your sitting natural position.
You can bend forward slightly in a natural position, then reach
for the handle bars. You should be able to extend your arms
completely yet comfortably without having to bend at the waist.
If you can do this you have a good fit.
5. Seat size
Make sure the seat comfortably fits your bum. Make sure it's
not too narrow or too wide. Make sure the angle is correct and
does not tilt the body at an abnormal angle. Also make sure
the seat has ample padding to keep you comfortable for long
rides. If everything else is right with the bike but the seat,
you can always change a seat out.
6. Shocks
Depending on the type of riding you are going to be doing will
depend on whether you should look at a bike that has a shock
system. If you are going to be riding trails then you should
make sure you will be as comfortable as possible. A shock system
will provide you with a more comfortable and a more stable ride.
You can purchase a bike with a full shock system or just a rear
shock system depending on the type of riding you will be doing.
7. Type of bike
Again, the type of bike will depend on the type of riding you
will be doing. If you are just going to be cruising around local
paved roads then a standard bike will do just fine. If you plan
to tour, then choose an appropriate touring style bike. If you
are going to be riding trails then you will need to look at
a mountain bike. Choosing the correct style of bike for the
type of riding is important for both comfort and safety.
8. Style
Style, color, and design choices are endless. Find a few bikes
that fit you properly than choose which style and design you
like best. You can choose an endless array of colors from blues
to reds to purples to pinks with mixed paint jobs and fancy
detailing. What ever you can imagine, it is probably out there
somewhere.
Choosing a bike that fits you right and keeps you comfortable
will also keep you safe while enjoying the outdoors. You are also
more likely to ride a bike that is comfortable than one that is
awkward and off balance. Following these 8 simple tips will help
ensure you have a proper fitting bike that will give you years
of enjoyment and help keep you in tip top shape.
