There are many people who decide to cycle as a way to get from one place to another. Many of these reasons are not at all related with how you like to travel. Some people have decided to take up cycling as a way to exercise. The thrill of competition draws other people to the sport of cycling. And there are others that simply want a way to bond with their family, so they take up cycling. 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. This article provides some advice to help you along your way.
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. Those who do not use their bikes very regularly will be happy with normal brakes, those which simply squeeze the tire with two small pads to slow the bike down. For those who use their bike for serious riding and over heavy terrain better brakes may be needed. 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. Your bicycle seat should not be at the lowest setting, which is sitting atop the crossbar. You want to adjust it up a few inches and take those inches into account when you are choosing your bike. You will have a much more comfortable experience when riding if you are able to get some clearance between the crossbar of the bicycle and you. 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.
Another thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. The new bicycle helmets look and feel nothing like the old bicycle helmets. Now they offer better protection you can try this out while being a little bit more stylish. You must always wear your helmet when you are riding your bike, no matter what. Sometimes that fraction of padding really can save your life!
It wouldn't hurt to also get some elbow and knee pads, and some wrist and ankle guards if you are going to take your bike off-road. If you plan to use your bike as a sole means of transportation, buy yourself some pants clips. These things are little clips that clip the pants leg up so they don't get tangled in the chain or the gears. There are many different factors to take into account when finding the right bicycle. Is this a bike you are going to be riding every single day or is it a bike you are only going to ride every now and them? Which height is most comfortable for you? Do you feel more at ease with your feet just above the ground as you sit on the seat, or would you rather that your feet sit flat when you are at rest? Think about all this when buying your bike, and you will make the right choice.