In recent times the western world has undergone a transportation change. 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. 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! The fact is there are plenty more cyclists on the road now than there were just a few years ago. Perhaps you have been giving some thought to getting a bike yourself? If this is the case it is important you know what to look for, the following tips will help you in your quest to find a suitable bike.
You need to make sure you pick a bike that is the right size. To do this, you will need to measure your inseam. Simply measure through your inner leg from your groin to the bottom of your foot to find out your inseam. You should ideally be able to place both feet on the ground when sitting in on your bike. This is mainly for safety and will allow you to use your feet to stop the bike without the brakes if needed. You will also need to consider which handlebars you want on your bike. Not all handlebars are the same. Traditional handlebars that just go straight out are good for maneuvering over difficult terrain. These handlebars will also evenly distribute your weight over a larger area. If you are using your bike for racing, then you want to pick some handlebars that are more slim and allow you to lean forward on your bike so you can go faster. For those people who rarely use their bikes you can get away with just selecting comfortable handlebars that can be stored away easily.
Another continue reading this thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. The new bicycle helmets look and feel nothing like the old bicycle helmets. 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. This little thing can mean the difference between life and death.
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. Another piece of safety equipment that you should think about getting are pants clips, especially if you are going to be using your bike as a primary mode of transportation. They work by clipping your pants out of the way so they can't get tangled in the chain or gears.
You should keep these things in mind when you go out and buy a bicycle, especially if you want to find the one that is right for you. There are so many different bicycles and accessories available that it can feel overwhelming as you try to decide which items are best for you. Take your time and do some research and you’ll find the right bike before you know it.