There is no shortage of reasons for choosing to cycle. Some people choose to ride bicycles because they cannot afford the cost of gas and automobile maintenance. Some are 'going green' and taking an active part in trying to help our environment by choosing to ride a bike over a car.
And there are some who like to cycle simply because it is fun. No matter your reason for choosing to take up cycling, you need to know some important things before you decide on your first bicycle. If you really want to choose the perfect cycling bicycle, you need to think about more than just what it looks like. Contained hereafter are some hints and tips you can use to pick the bicycle that is perfect for you.
The first thing you need to do is try the bicycle on for size, meaning sit on it and make sure that your feet are still flat on the floor so you will be able to stop yourself. There are some people that say this isn't the best way to choose, though. It is their belief, that your time on your bicycle will be much more comfortable, if you allow your feet to remain several inches off the ground. When buying a new bike, you will see the seat is placed extremely low to the crossbar, so when you sit on the bike with your feet on the ground and are able to bend your knees, you should pick a different bike. This is because when you are pedaling with this bike, your knees are going to come up too high. You shouldn't keep the bicycle seat at the lowest setting, either. You always want to bring the seat up at least a few inches when you begin to ride, so keep this in mind when you are picking your bike. When you bring the seat up a few inches, you are going to have more room between the crossbar and you, and this will make for a much more comfortable ride. The goal here is to create a height with your seat so that when your pedal is at its lowest position your leg should be almost (but not quite) fully extended.
It is important you allow for room between you and the crossbar. When choosing a bike move the seat so it is a couple of inches above the crossbar. Sit on it and make sure you can rest your feet flat to the ground. Different i was reading this bikes will need differing clearance amounts. A touring bike for example will require around 1", perhaps slightly more. With a mountain bike a clearance of 3" will be necessary.
There are lots of things to think about when you are buying a cycling bicycle. While you shop, you must make decisions from safety issues to fashion concerns. You can feel unsure of yourself, and a bit overwhelmed, as you attempt to purchase a new bike. A little time spent looking into the choices will allow you to relax and buy the best bike for you.
Do this research before you go shopping. You’ll reap the benefits.