Many reasons will push you to choose a bicycle as a new mode of transportation. Just because you are riding a bicycle from one point to another doesn't mean it's your preferred way to travel. Some people choose to cycle because they need the exercise. Some choose to cycle because they are in competitions with cycling. Another group of individuals take pleasure in a simple, relaxed ride through their neighborhood. Regardless of your reason for needing to find a bicycle, you need to take some things into consideration when the time comes to choose the perfect bicycle for you. These tips are intended to help you along your way.
One thing you can consider when choosing a bike is whether or not your feet can rest flat on the floor while you are sitting so you can stop yourself. There are some people that say this isn't the best way to choose, though. These experts say in order to have the best cycling experience you can, you should allow for a few inches between the ground and your feet. If your feet are on the ground and your knees are bent when you sit on the seat of the bike, it generally means that the seat is sitting too low for you and too close to the crossbar. Your knees will cause interference as you are pedaling, because they will come up higher than they should, which is a result of your knees being bent when you are at rest with your feet down. 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. The added space between you and the crossbar, afforded by raising the seat slightly, will make a positive impact on your level of comfort. The goal here is to create a height with your seat so that when your pedal is at its lowest position your leg should be almost (but not quite) fully extended.
Another thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. There have been many advancements on bicycle helmets since they first were introduced. Now they offer better protection while being a little bit more stylish. You should never go for a ride without putting on your helmet first. Sometimes that fraction of padding really can save 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. If you are going to be using your bicycle as your sole means of transportation, you should think of investing in some pants clips as well. These are clips that keep your pants legs up and out of the way of your gears and chain.
When you get a bike your main goal should be to find one that physically suits you. This is the most important thing to consider when looking into using a bike to get around. You need to feel safe but also comfortable on your bike, view it now otherwise you won't enjoy riding it!