Choosing the Right Road Bike - Tips to Finding the Ideal Bike

If you intend to be riding on a road bike for a long period of time, then choosing the right one that fits your lifestyle is crucial. Too many people often make the mistake of finding the cheapest one they can find at their local sporting goods store not realizing that the quality makes a huge difference. Finding one that fits your needs is extremely important as it will make riding that much more enjoyable.

While there isn't necessarily a "wrong" bike that you can choose, obviously you will experience discomfort if you choose one that doesn't fit you properly or you choose the wrong type. Where you will actually be riding makes a huge difference as there are specific bikes built for particular terrains. With that said, here are tips to finding the right bike for you.

One factor that prevents many people from cycling is the cost and it's not difficult to see why as bikes can easily cost upwards of thousands of dollars. Fortunately, great deals can be had by shopping online or taking advantage of clearance deals but be sure to thoroughly do research ahead of time. Resist the urge to jump on the first deal you see as there are likely better bikes out there for you.

Decide first thing how much you are willing to spend as this will have the biggest impact on the bike you ultimately choose. Next, determine where you are going to be riding. If you plan on riding through mountain trails a lot then you will probably need a mountain bike. If you are going to be riding on smooth surfaces such as paved roads then you will need a road bike.

The next thing you want to do is test the sizing of the bike. It is highly recommended to go to a sporting goods store so you can test out as many bikes as you can to get a better feel for the different types available. When straddling the bike, the top tube of the bike should be about 1 to 2 inches away from your body while you firmly plant your feet on the ground.

Deciding on the right bike can be intimidating for the beginner as there are literally hundreds of different types and sizes available. Be sure to try out as many as you can and to take your time doing thorough research. Be sure to decide ahead of time where you will be riding and how much you intend to spend.

Comments