The preferred mode of transport has taken an unlikely turn in recent years. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. 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. Maybe you have considered buying a bike? Here are some hints to help you choose the cycling bicycle that is right for you.
The basic key to choosing a bicycle is to buy a bicycle that you can sit on and rest your feet flat on the floor so that you can stop yourself. There are certain professionals, though, who disagree with this concept. 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. You will likely find that the seat will rest too near the crossbar, if, when you sit on the seat, your knees are bent with your feet flat on the ground, which is an indication that the seat needs to be raised. This is because when you are pedaling with this bike, your knees are going to come up too high. You shouldn't keep the bicycle seat at the lowest setting, either. Be sure to consider these few necessary inches between the seat and the crossbar, when you are out bicycle shopping. 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 best way to adjust your seat to the correct height is to place your foot on the pedal at the lowest setting and bring the seat up as high as it can go so that your leg is almost fully extended.
Never leave out the safety gear, either. The new bicycle helmets look and feel nothing like the old bicycle helmets. Not only do they look a little better now, they find more information are also safer for you. You should never, ever ride your bicycle unless you are wearing your helmet. You never know when that little detail is going to save you from an early grave.
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. Another good idea is to buy some pants clips if you are going to be riding your bike as your primary form of transportation. These are clips that keep your pants legs up and out of the way of your gears and chain.
So many options are available to you as you shop for a new bike. While you shop, you must make decisions from safety issues to fashion concerns. Feeling a little defeated at the outset of choosing your new bike is normal. The good news is that, with a little research, you can make a very informed decision about which bicycle is best for you.
Try to understand your choices before you go shopping. The peace it will offer during shopping makes it very worthwhile.