Deciding to get a bike is the easy part. Figuring out which bike to get can get complicated. But it doesn't have to be stressful. If you remember to these tips, researching the right bike for you will be fun and easy. Remember these guidelines and you'll end up getting a great bike for you.
1.Know what you will use your bike for. Are you going to be out cruising with the kids? Riding for fitness? Commuting or maybe flying downhill? Depending on how you intend to use your bike, you will need a different bike for needs. Know your needs first, before you start looking.
2.Start Slow. If you're just getting started don't go out and spend $2000 on a mountain bike. Get a reasonably priced bike ($200-$400) that is going to last and perform well. As you get more and more into biking you can add and upgrade components or trade up the entire bike.
3.Got skills? The sheer desire to get out there and ride can be a powerful urge. However, it is best not to let the desire take over and put you in a position of buying too much bike. If you can ride a bike, but are not used to all the gears, shifting options and gizmos that come with a performance bike, you may be discouraged and lose your enthusiasm. Being a casual cyclist is not a bad thing. You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to enjoy a good ride. Take a genuine assessment of your skill level before making your decision.
4.Do Your Research. You don't need to do a Wikipedia entry on the evolution of derailleurs but you need to know how much bike is good for you. There are a lot of options available but the internet is a great tool here. There are tons of cycling blogs and forums where riders will be more than willing to help you out.
5.Play 20 questions. I have found that many people are scared to look stupid or are too shy to ask a lot of questions in a face to face setting. They tend to feel intimidated and end up buying something they don't want or need. With the internet so readily available, it offers those people the opportunity to ask many questions anonymously. Find a blog or internet bike shop and send an email. Not only will you get answers to your questions, you can use the email as a reference while researching products.
6.Know your size and fit. There are multiple factors that affect the decision behind the right bicycle. Height, weight, fitness level, gender and even age all contribute to the customization of a good bike. Safety should be the number one concern on any bike owners mind. Not just road safety or judging conditions, you do not want to put any unnecessary strain on your back, neck, legs or arms.
7.Don't take my word for it. Though your interest in cycling may be new to you, there are many addicts out there. Beginners, cruiser, mountain bikers and "live to bike" types; your research should not be limited to retail experts. Ask those folks who are into it or getting into it, just like you. Their input is independent and free!
8.Go B&M. Head over to your local Brick and Mortar Bike Shop. With all the latest gadgets and different components available its nice to be able to compare them side by side. It's always good to develop relationships with guys in a bike shop. Their expertise will certainly come in handy. Even if you order your bike online you will eventually nned to tune it up or change out parts. Knowing guys in your local shop will always be a help.
9.Ask to borrow a bike from friends and family. If the thought of visiting a bike shop is still inconvenient or intimidating, speak to people in your world and go for a ride. You'd be amazed what a ride will do for you when trying to make a decision. In addition, he or she can offer their personal experiences with the bike.
10.Above all, go with your gut. Research, advice from friends and the blogosphere are all terrific tools to help you. However, nothing can compete with trusting your instincts. Nothing is more frustrating than making a purchase that goes against your gut and regretting your decision. Find your bike and go for a ride.
Finding the right bike doesn't have to be stressful. If you remember to have fun and don't get caught up in the technical details you will end up with a fantastic bike. If you're just starting out find a moderately priced bike that will last and perform well. Before you know it your daily bike ride will become an addiction. Fun is the name of the game. If you are not going to have fun with your bike, what is the point? Be well versed in your wants and needs.
1.Know what you will use your bike for. Are you going to be out cruising with the kids? Riding for fitness? Commuting or maybe flying downhill? Depending on how you intend to use your bike, you will need a different bike for needs. Know your needs first, before you start looking.
2.Start Slow. If you're just getting started don't go out and spend $2000 on a mountain bike. Get a reasonably priced bike ($200-$400) that is going to last and perform well. As you get more and more into biking you can add and upgrade components or trade up the entire bike.
3.Got skills? The sheer desire to get out there and ride can be a powerful urge. However, it is best not to let the desire take over and put you in a position of buying too much bike. If you can ride a bike, but are not used to all the gears, shifting options and gizmos that come with a performance bike, you may be discouraged and lose your enthusiasm. Being a casual cyclist is not a bad thing. You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to enjoy a good ride. Take a genuine assessment of your skill level before making your decision.
4.Do Your Research. You don't need to do a Wikipedia entry on the evolution of derailleurs but you need to know how much bike is good for you. There are a lot of options available but the internet is a great tool here. There are tons of cycling blogs and forums where riders will be more than willing to help you out.
5.Play 20 questions. I have found that many people are scared to look stupid or are too shy to ask a lot of questions in a face to face setting. They tend to feel intimidated and end up buying something they don't want or need. With the internet so readily available, it offers those people the opportunity to ask many questions anonymously. Find a blog or internet bike shop and send an email. Not only will you get answers to your questions, you can use the email as a reference while researching products.
6.Know your size and fit. There are multiple factors that affect the decision behind the right bicycle. Height, weight, fitness level, gender and even age all contribute to the customization of a good bike. Safety should be the number one concern on any bike owners mind. Not just road safety or judging conditions, you do not want to put any unnecessary strain on your back, neck, legs or arms.
7.Don't take my word for it. Though your interest in cycling may be new to you, there are many addicts out there. Beginners, cruiser, mountain bikers and "live to bike" types; your research should not be limited to retail experts. Ask those folks who are into it or getting into it, just like you. Their input is independent and free!
8.Go B&M. Head over to your local Brick and Mortar Bike Shop. With all the latest gadgets and different components available its nice to be able to compare them side by side. It's always good to develop relationships with guys in a bike shop. Their expertise will certainly come in handy. Even if you order your bike online you will eventually nned to tune it up or change out parts. Knowing guys in your local shop will always be a help.
9.Ask to borrow a bike from friends and family. If the thought of visiting a bike shop is still inconvenient or intimidating, speak to people in your world and go for a ride. You'd be amazed what a ride will do for you when trying to make a decision. In addition, he or she can offer their personal experiences with the bike.
10.Above all, go with your gut. Research, advice from friends and the blogosphere are all terrific tools to help you. However, nothing can compete with trusting your instincts. Nothing is more frustrating than making a purchase that goes against your gut and regretting your decision. Find your bike and go for a ride.
Finding the right bike doesn't have to be stressful. If you remember to have fun and don't get caught up in the technical details you will end up with a fantastic bike. If you're just starting out find a moderately priced bike that will last and perform well. Before you know it your daily bike ride will become an addiction. Fun is the name of the game. If you are not going to have fun with your bike, what is the point? Be well versed in your wants and needs.
About the Author:
Beginning cyclists can find what they are looking for at TheComfortBikeShop.com. From women's comfort bikes to beach cruisers, a recreational cycler will find what they need. PJ started this site to help beginners find a balance between very expensive bikes and poorly made ones. If you need a comfort bike, it's a great place to start.
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