Many people have found reason in taking up cycling. There are those who decide to take up cycling because the price of gas is too high and the cost of maintenance on a vehicle is too high. Some decide to cycle because they want to have less of an impact on the environment when traveling.
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. You will be surprised at how much more there is to a bicycle than just the looks. Contained hereafter are some hints and tips you can use to pick the bicycle that is perfect for you.
The first thing to ensure is you get a bike that is the right size. Begin by measuring your inseam. Simply measure through your inner leg from your groin to the bottom of your foot to find out your inseam. You should ideally be able to place both feet on the ground when sitting in on your bike. This is mainly for safety and will allow you to use your feet to stop the bike without the brakes if needed. Which handlebars to go with is also a serious decision. There are many different types to choose from, each better for specific roles. Handlebars that extend straight out give you more control over how your bike is maneuvered over rough terrain. They are also better for distributing your body weight over a larger area. If you plan to use your bike for racing you will likely want to go with a different type of handlebar, such a handlebar is thinner and allows you to lean over the bike while you ride, this makes you more streamlined and allows you to cycle faster. If you aren't using your bike constantly, the best thing to choose is something that is simply comfortable and allows you to store your bike easily when it isn't in use.
It is important that you allow adequate room between you and the crossbar. When browsing for a bike try some out, make sure the seat is a few inches above the crossbar. Make certain you can still place both feet flatly on the ground. You will want to leave different clearance lengths depending on the type of bicycle you are buying. As an example, with a touring bike you will only require around 1". With a mountain bike however you will need some more, 3 inches should suffice.
You will see straight from the source there are many things you should consider when you are finding the bike that's right for you. It can become a frustrating process at times to try and figure out exactly what bike you need and which accessories you should get to go with it. Take your time and do some research and you’ll find the right bike before you know it.