Many reasons will push you to choose a bicycle as a new mode of transportation. There are many different reasons to cycle, and some have nothing to do with being a preferred method of getting to point A to point B. Engaging in exercise is one of the overwhelming reasons that a large number of individuals choose to go cycling. The thrill of competition draws other people to the sport of cycling. Still others ride bicycles as a hobby because they enjoy the feeling of riding a bicycle around their neighborhood. When deciding to purchase a cycling bicycle, there will be a number of elements that need to be taken into account, and this is true for those wishing to enjoy cycling as a hobby, sport, or a means of getting from point A to point B. Here are some hints to help you make your choice.
The brakes on your bike are of utmost importance. You need to make sure you understand how your brakes work and what kind of brakes you need your bike to have. If you only want a bike to use occasionally as a hobby, you can go with normal brakes which are just small pads designed to clasp the wheel when used. However if you use your bike regularly and on serious terrain you should go with more sturdy brakes. These brakes are called 'disc brakes' and are located within the wheel, they are far more reliable than normal brakes and are less likely to fail over time. You shouldn't keep the bicycle seat at the lowest setting, either. You always want to bring the seat up at least a few inches when you begin to ride, so keep this in mind when you are picking your bike. When you bring the seat up a few inches, you are going to have more room between the crossbar and you, and this will make for a much more comfortable ride. The ideal seat height can be achieved, by ensuring that your leg is very close to completely extended, when your foot is at it's lowest position while on the pedal.
You also want to make sure you leave some room between you and the crossbar of your bike. When you get a bike be sure to move the seat up a couple of inches from the crossbar. Your feet read this should still comfortably rest on the ground. Each type of bike requires different clearances. A touring bike for example will require around 1", perhaps slightly more. With a mountain bike however you will need some more, 3 inches should suffice.
How well you fit physically with your bike is what is most important. 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. Safety is important when on a bike but do not overlook comfort, otherwise those long rides will soon grow tiresome.