Considerations for Choosing a Bicycle

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So, you've decided to take up bicycling! Whether you plan to use your bike for eco-friendly transportation, weekend adventures or health reasons, there are a number of considerations involved in choosing your beginner bicycle.

Let's look at a few factors that will help you narrow the wide number of options into a workable action plan. You may want a pen and paper to jot down important notes.

Where, When and How Far will you Ultimately Ride your Bicycle?

It may seem ambitious to project riding your beginner bicycle 10 miles, more or less, to work every day. However, unless you want to 'buy up' each time you reach a milestone; it's good to list all your goals upfront.

Where –describe the terrain you plan to navigate. Take hills, remote areas and road surfaces into consideration. How about off-road riding?

When – note whether or not you plan to ride during daylight hours, after dark and/or weekends.

How Far – list approximate distances to work, the park, places you might cycle to run errands, nearby bike trails and so on.

Hybrids, Comfort and Mountain Bikes – Oh My!

If it appears you'll be making mostly short and leisurely trips on good roads, the lightweight hybrid is a good selection for your beginner bicycle

The hybrid is often called 'jack of all trades' because they maneuver in a similar manner as mountain bikes but are light as a road bicycle. You'll enjoy upright handle bars; get effective pedaling and ride with ease.

No worries if you'd like to occasionally take lesser traveled paths. These little beauties are designed to withstand rougher trails too.

Comfort Bikes accentuate – uh – comfort! This is your go-to beginner bicycle if you prefer more laid-back recreational rides. Don't expect to participate in race...

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...shop, such as the Touring bike, try it out. This is your adventure. Make the most of it.

Generally bicycle shops encourage test rides when weather conditions are appropriate. Testing a bike for comfort and size wouldn't be enjoyable in the rain anyway. Bring your ID as you may be required to leave it as a gesture of good faith.

The sales assistant can determine which bikes are a good fit, help adjust your seat height and show you how the gears work. If you don't own a helmet, now is the right time to invest in one.

Even if you're tempted to buy the first bicycle you test ride, go home and think it over.

Because we have concentrated on utility and safety considerations doesn't mean you must ignore the aesthetics. You and your beginner bicycle will become trusted companions. If the purple one with a faux-leopard seat makes your heart sing, that bike is for you!

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