There are a lot of different criteria to consider when you are buying a cycling bicycle. Even for those people who are paid to ride, buying a new bike is hard. The fact of the matter is that getting a bike involves many different choices. You need to think about safety, comfort, what the bike will be used for, how often the bicycle will be used, where the bicycle will be used and, if we’re being honest: style. Keeping on top of all the new ideas coming out with bicycling, as well as choosing between the old options, makes choosing a bike hard. Opting for the correct bike for you is as easy as using these simple criteria.
One way to choose the bike that fits you is to sit on the bike and see if your feet will rest flat on the floor, in case you need to stop yourself. There are experts who state that this isn't a good way to choose a bike, however. They state the best way to choose a bike is to leave a few inches between your feet and the ground so you can have a more comfortable ride. You will likely find that the seat will rest too near the crossbar, if, when you sit on the seat, your knees are bent with your feet flat on the ground, which is an indication that the seat needs to be raised. Also, if you find that your knees are bent when sitting on the bike, your knees are going to come up too high when you are pedaling your bike. What kind of handlebars you want on your bike is also a big choice. There are plenty types of handlebars to choose from. Handlebars that extend straight out give you more control over how your bike is maneuvered over rough terrain. They are this article good for distributing your weight as you ride over a bigger area. If you are using your bike for racing, then you want to pick some handlebars that are more slim and allow you to lean forward on your bike so you can go faster. For those of us who only plan to use our bikes sporadically, you may wish to go with a handlebar style that is comfortable and yet easily stored away.
It is important that you allow adequate room between you and the crossbar. When selecting a bike make sure you move the seat up slightly, to around a few inches above the height of the crossbar. Make certain you can still place both feet flatly on the ground. Which bike you get will greatly alter the clearance you will require. A touring bike for example will require around 1", perhaps slightly more. If you are buying a mountain bike you’ll want more—three inches or so between you and the crossbar.
Lots and lots of different features and options are out there as you look for a new bicycle. While you shop, you must make decisions from safety issues to fashion concerns. It’s perfectly normal for you to feel a little overwhelmed and perhaps a little perplexed when starting out. By investing a bit of your time to look at your preferences you will make the best decision.
Take your time to learn about your options before you shop. It will pay off in the end.