The preferred mode of transport has taken an unlikely turn in recent years. Before the car was transport of choice but recently however the use of push bikes has become increasingly popular. This trend can be attributed to the idea of keeping things 'green' in a bid to take care of our planet. It doesn't hurt that gas is increasing in price either! No matter what has caused it, the fact is there are now more cyclists on the road than in a long while. Have you been tempted to use a bike for your everyday transport needs? 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.
It is important to know how your bike comes to a stop. You need to make sure you understand how your brakes work and what kind of brakes you need your bike to have. If you are choosing a bicycle for sporadic hobby riding, you can get by with the brakes that are little more than pads that squeeze your tires to keep them from moving. If you are going to be using your bicycle more often or in heavy terrain, you will want brakes that are a little more hard core and complicated. For description such cycling you should look to disc brakes, these are located within the wheel itself and are less likely to be weakened over time or worse, fail.
Will you need more bells and whistles for your bike to function optimally? A basket will help if you are planning to carry items on your bike. Will you be travelling with a child? If so, you will need to find a bicycle that can safely support a baby seat. How about towing something behind the bike? Your new bike needs to support the weight of the trailer if this is your plan.
Don’t forget to buy your safety gear. There have been many advancements on bicycle helmets since they first were introduced. Not only do they look a lot better than they used to, they are also built better to provide greater protection. You should never go for a ride without putting on your helmet first. You don't even realize how important this thing can be in saving your life.
You might also consider investing in elbow, knee, wrist and ankle guards—especially if you are going to be going “off road†on your bicycle. Pants clips are another great investment, especially if you are using your bike as your sole means of transportation. Pants clips are designed to hold your pants in place so they don't get caught up in the chain or the gears of the bike.
The options and technologies available for biking are overwhelming as you search for a new bicycle. You have innumerable decisions to make as you choose how safe a bike to buy, as well as one that is pleasing to the eye. It’s perfectly normal for you to feel a little overwhelmed and perhaps a little perplexed when starting out. The good news is that, with a little research, you can make a very informed decision about which bicycle is best for you.
Take your time to learn about your options before you shop. It will pay off in the end.