When you decide to buy a bike you should visit a professional shop. People working there are usually bike enthusiasts and great specialists, they will be able to explain you the differences between particular models, choose what kind of bike would be the best for your body shape, and finally make sure the bike you choose is working without any problems and has everything in place.
Before you make the final decision, you should visit a couple of professional shops, compare their offer, check the prices and think about the bike that interests you the most. Some shops offer their customers attractive bonuses like additional lights, special bag or a lock. Remember that if you want to buy a high quality bike that will work for years and won’t break every two months you should definitely avoid buying it in a supermarket. You won’t find the professional service there and the product is probably poor. Don’t waste your money and time.
First you have to choose the type of the bike you want. Think of the places you are going to use it and estimate how often you will use it. There are different types of bicycles made for particular conditions and users.
Utility bikes for example are designed for every day usage during shopping or moving from one place to another. They are usually single speed bikes equipped with a basket.
There are mountain bicycles designed for off-road cycling. If you love extreme riding in hard conditions this kind of bike is for you. They are usually multi speed bikes equipped with many additional features like sturdy, highly durable frames and wheels, wide-gauge treaded tires, and cross-wise handlebars to help the rider resist sudden jolts.
There are of course racing bikes, BMX bikes and many more specific kinds but buying them is much more difficult and requires experience. Assuming you are an amateur I think there is one more type of bike you should consider. It is a touring bicycle designed for longer trips and journeys. They are durable and comfortable, capable of transporting baggage, and have a wide gear range.
When you chose the perfect bike type for you, you have to think about the details. First decide what kind of frame it should have. The size of the frame has a big influence on the riding comfort. The distance between the seat and the handlebar has to be perfectly fitted to your height, otherwise your body position will unable you comfortable riding. Then focus on the brakes. This is an extremely important part of the bicycle and sometimes can save our life. That is why you have to make sure they are made from the lasting materials. Popular v-brakes are not always as good as we think. Some of them just won’t last. Don’t ever buy a bike with plastic v-brakes! Drum brakes are better but they make the bike cost more. If you are ready to spend a little more, it is worth to buy a bike with such brakes, it is much safer.
Other things you have to think about are all kinds of gadgets. Analogically to computer freaks buying all kinds of gizmos like mini mouse, webcam and graphic tablets, bike lovers can spend huge sums of money on bicycle gadgets. Don’t get too obsessed, but think about what you need. A lock is a must; it allows you to leave your bike everywhere you want. You can also buy some extra reflective lights; the more visible you are on the road the better.
Buying a bike is not an easy thing. Of course you can buy something fast, without thinking, but you have to be prepared it won’t last long and your money will be wasted. It is better to take some time and get some professional help so your bike will be safe and will stay with you for years.
|
Featured guides RSS Feed