The preferred mode of transport has taken an unlikely turn in recent years. While the majority of people in the western world seemed most interested in travelling via automobile, in the last couple of decades many people have been choosing the bicycle as their primary mode of transportation. This could be because down to the prices of gas and running a car, or perhaps people are deciding to care more for the planet. The fact is there are plenty more cyclists on the road now than there were just a few years ago. Maybe you have considered buying 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. For this you must calculate your inseam. To do this, simply run a measuring tape up the inside of your leg from the bottom of your foot to your groin. The goal is to be able to sit on the seat of the bike and still rest your feet flat on the ground. This means that you will be able to stop your bicycle with your feet if the brakes do not work—without having to tilt the bicycle and risk doing harm to it and to yourself.
Don't ever make the purchase until you have tried the bicycle out. Take it around the block if you can to make sure that it's worth the money and it's right for you. It's the same concept as buying a used car, there's no way you would take it without testing it.
Why wouldn’t you do the same with a bicycle? This is especially important if you are going to be spending large sums of money for a bicycle that you are going to be riding a lot. You need to make sure the bike is going helpful hints to 'fit' you. This doesn't only mean physically fit you, this also means one that easily fits your riding styles. You wouldn't want to spend your hard earned money on something that isn't comfortable, would you?
Another aspect you need to think about is the angle of the seat. You can tilt the seat any way you want it. Most find that a flat seat can prove to be extremely uncomfortable, so they adjust it to their preference. 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.
There are lots of things to think about when you are buying a cycling bicycle. While you shop, you must make decisions from safety issues to fashion concerns. If you don’t have a lot of experience with cycling bicycles, you will probably feel overwhelmed and insecure as you start your shopping. A little time spent looking into the choices will allow you to relax and buy the best bike for you.
Try to understand your choices before you go shopping. It will pay off in the end.