In the last couple of decades a major shift has been happening in transportation. Cars were the king of the road, however we can now see a growing trend in the popularity of cycling as a main method of transport. It could be down to efforts to remain green, perhaps people want to save money on high gas prices, or maybe many people just want to get in shape! No matter what has caused it, the fact is there are now more cyclists on the road than in a long while. Maybe you have been pondering purchasing a bike? If you have been thinking about using a bike as your main mode of transportation, or just thinking about getting one for fun, there are a few things you need to think about.
You must make sure you get a bike that is the appropriate size for you. To do this, you will need to measure your inseam. Simply measure the distance from your groin to the bottom of your foot, down the inside of your leg. When you get a bike you should be able to lay both feet flat to the ground if need be. This is mainly for safety and will allow you to use your feet to stop the bike without the brakes if needed.
Do you require more features on the new bike? If you are using your bicycle as your primary form of transportation you might want to consider whether you will need things like baskets to help you transport goods. Will you be travelling with a child? Needing a child seat attachment will alter which bikes you can choose from. Do you think you'll ever tow anything behind the bike? You will have to get a bike that can support the trailer's weight.
The number of gears you’ll use will also affect your choice. Traveling useful reference through flat areas requires far less gears than riding in a mountainous area. You can’t evaluate the bike only by the number of gears it has. Sometimes bike riders don’t ever use all the gears on their bike. Don't waste your money on something you won't use. Find out where you’ll ride your bike, especially if this is your main vehicle, and make sure you have enough gears to handle the areas through which you will travel.
When you get a bike your main goal should be to find one that physically suits you. Selecting a bike with a good fit for you is of the utmost importance, when using a bike as the main way to get from A to B. Comfort and safety are both very important.