Most people assume picking the right bike is an easy task. They think that all they have to do is pick out which bicycle looks the prettiest to them and allows them to sit comfortably. However this is not the case, there are plenty of things you need to consider when looking for the right bike. There is more to it nowadays than there used to be. With cycling becoming more popular in almost every area of life (transportation, lifestyle, sports, hobbies) there are more bicycles than ever to choose from. Today more people are choosing to ride a bicycle as their primary forms of transportation. Some people have decided to take up cycling as a hobby. No matter why you are picking your bicycle, here are some ways to help you along.
The first thing to ensure is you get a bike that is the right size. Begin by measuring your inseam. To do this, simply run a measuring tape up the inside of your leg from the bottom of your foot to your groin. The goal is to be able to sit on the seat of the bike and still rest your feet flat on the ground. If you can do this you need not worry about stopping in an emergency if your brakes malfunction.
What kind of add-ons must you have? Perhaps a basket to help you carry items will be helpful, should your bike be what you'll be using most. Will you ever carry a child on your bike? If this is the case, you must choose a bike that can support a child's seat. Have you ever considered pulling anything behind your bike? Choose a bike that can support the weight of a trailer, if this is something you’ll do.
It is important you allow for room between you and the crossbar. When you get a bike be sure to move the seat up a couple of inches from the crossbar. Sit on it and make sure you can rest your feet flat to the ground. Each type of bike will require differing clearance amounts. For example a touring bike will require around an inch. If you are buying a mountain bike you’ll want more—three inches or so between you and the crossbar.
You should keep these things in mind when you go out and buy a bicycle, especially if you want to find the one that is right for you. There are tons of varieties of bicycles, as well as innumerable amounts of accessories available to you, so sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. If you will not jump into things and try and educate yourself on what you need, you will be pleased with view it the results.