Many people have found reason in taking up cycling. There are those who decide to take up cycling because the price of gas is too high and the cost of maintenance on a vehicle is too high. Some decide to cycle because they want to have less of an impact on the environment when traveling.
And then there are those who choose to cycle because they simply love it. Whatever your reason for going cycle shopping there are some definite criteria that you need to think about before you make your choice. Bicycles should not just be chosen because of their looks or their brand name. Outlined hereafter are some pointers you can take into consideration when going out to buy your bike.
You must make sure you get a bike that is the appropriate size for you. To accomplish this you need know your inseam measurement. 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. If you can do this you need not worry about stopping in an emergency if your brakes malfunction.
Are you going to need to accommodate extra accessories? If you have to move things using your bike, you’ll certainly want to add a basket. Will you be travelling with a child? If this is the case, you must choose a bike that can support a child's seat. How about towing something behind the bike? Your new bike needs to support the weight of the trailer if this is your plan.
Never leave out the safety gear, either. Bicycle helmets are something completely different than they once were. Not only are they made to better protect you, but they are also made to appeal a bit more aesthetically. You should never, ever ride your bicycle unless you are wearing your helmet. You'd be surprised at how many lives have been saved from that one simple thing.
If you are going to be taking your bike off road, then you need to also invest in some knee and elbow pads, as well as ankle and wrist guards. Another good idea is to buy some pants my latest blog post clips if you are going to be riding your bike as your primary form of transportation. These clips are designed to keep your pants from getting caught up in the gears and the chain. Several different factors play into how you are going to choose the right bicycle. Will this be an activity that you enjoy daily, or will you only be taking your bicycle out on special occasions? What seat height gives you the most comfortable ride? Would you rather be able to put your feet flat on the ground or would you rather have that few inches between your feet and the ground when you are sitting down? Think about all this when buying your bike, and you will make the right choice.