In the last couple of decades a major shift has been happening in transportation. More and more people are leaving the car behind in favor of the bicycle, in the west the car reigned supreme but we are now seeing a growth in popularity of the bike. Perhaps the trend can be put down to 'green' thinking, or maybe just the prices of gas are starting to get to people. Whatever the reason, there are more cyclists on the road than ever. Have you been thinking about getting a bicycle? If you have then there are several things you should look at when you do.
Consider how the bicycle brakes, for one. Brakes are very important on a bike, you need to understand how they work and what type you will most likely need for your bike. For light use you can get a bike with traditional brakes, ones which simply squeeze the tires with small pads. For more hardcore cycling on tough terrain you may want some better brakes. Disc brakes sit within the wheels themselves and work are less likely to give out under stress. What kind of handlebars you want on your bike is also a big choice. Not all handlebars are the same. Traditional handlebars that just go straight out are good for maneuvering over difficult terrain. These handlebars will also distribute your weight over a big area. For racing bikes you will want completely different handlebars, these handlebars will curve and allow you to ride look these up your bike in a leaning position, this is to cut down on wind resistance and allow you to cycle faster. For people who rarely use their bike they will want handlebars which allow the bike to be stored away efficiently, but which also offer some level of comfort when cycling.
Another essential element in a comfortable cycling experience is the angle of the seat(also known as the saddle). The seat is designed to be tilted any way you want it to. Some cyclists are more comfortable in a slightly forward position, and therefore, find a completely flat seat inappropriate for them. Continue to adjust your seat until it feels the best for you. You may find that if you leave the seat in the flat position, the narrow part of the seat will not allow you to comfortably bend forward. As you can see, there are many things to take into consideration when deciding on the perfect bicycle for you. For some folks, sturdiness and stability will be a factor because they will need a bike that can take a lot of wear and tear. You may simply what the most reliable bike for getting you around the city. Price can also be a point to consider. Be sure to shop around before taking the final decision and parting with your cash. Don’t just buy the first bicycle that looks good—you could get stuck with a lemon!