There are several different reasons people choose to cycle as a mode of transportation. Just because you are riding a bicycle from one point to another doesn't mean it's your preferred way to travel. Engaging in exercise is one of the overwhelming reasons that a large number of individuals choose to go cycling. Some people cycle as a competitive sport. And some people decide that they want to take up cycling as a hobby with their family and friends. Whatever the reason you have for wanting a cycling bicycle, there are a lot of different things to consider when you are trying to decide which cycling bicycle is right for you. Try these tips out to see if they can be of help.
The first thing to ensure is you get a bike that is the right size. For this you must calculate your inseam. This is accomplished by measuring from your groin to your foot down the inside of your leg. You should be able to sit on your bike while keeping both feet flat on the ground. This means that you will be able to stop your bicycle with your feet if the brakes do not work—without having to tilt the bicycle and risk doing harm to it and to yourself.
You should always make sure to give the bike a test run before committing to buying it, though. You should never buy a bike until you have ridden it first, if only for a couple of minutes. Do you know of anyone that would buy a used car without taking it out for a test drive?
So why wouldn't this apply to buying a bicycle? It's even more important for you to do if you plan on spending a significant amount of money on it and will be using it a lot. Choose the bicycle that you know will fit you. This doesn't only mean physically fit you, this also means one that easily fits your riding styles. You wouldn't want to i thought about this waste money on a bicycle you don't enjoy riding.
Another thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. Bicycle helmets are something completely different than they once were. Not only do they look a little better now, they are also safer for you. You should never go for a ride without putting on your helmet first. Sometimes that fraction of padding really can save your life!
It wouldn't hurt to also grab some elbow and knee guards, as well as ankle and wrist guards, just in case you decide to take your bike off the road. Pants clips are another great investment, especially if you are using your bike as your sole means of transportation. These are clips that keep your pants legs up and out of the way of your gears and chain.
When you get a bike your main goal should be to find one that physically suits you. If you intend to use your bike a lot, perhaps as your main method of transport, it is important you keep this in mind. Comfort and saftey are the two most important aspects of riding a bike.