For some of us, buying a bicycle can be as intimidating as going into a gourmet Italian coffee shop. The choices are endless and the language is nothing short of foreign. In an attempt to ease the decision making process and ensure that you end up with the right bicycle, I've compiled a list of tips to help you on your journey.
1.Assess your needs. One of the best ways to waste your time and money is to purchase something that isn't right for you. There are so many options to choose from that it actually helps to be particular. Think about the ways that you plan to use your bike, how often will you be using it and how much maintenance it may need. What you are looking for may be totally different from what you need.
2.Mind the dip. I've seen so many casual cyclists make the mistake of buying an expensive mountain bike just to cruise around the look park paths. The most expensive bike out there is the one you buy that is completely wrong for you. Make sure you consider your environment. Are you travelling in an urban area or on an unpaved hiking trail? Either way, there is a bike out there specifically designed for your needs.
3.Know your skill level. If you've done the Tour de France, chances are you won't need any help choosing the right bicycle and your skill level probably falls into the top 1% of the world. If you don't fall into that category, here are few things to keep in mind. Are you looking for a bike to give you an interval workout? Do you plan on travelling on a lot of steep hills? Are you planning on hauling heavy loads with your bicycle? If you are not looking at your bike as a means to facilitate your only exercise, you may be looking for more of a comfort bike.
4.Review, Research, Repeat. I'm not suggesting that you write a book report on the history of the bicycle and its socioeconomic influence on the human race. It is a good idea to have knowledge about the bikes that suit your needs. You may be surprised by the amount of options available. In addition, some bike retailers may be more reliable than others. Reading the reviews of other people and researching your bike are great independent tools to help you on your way.
5.Ask a lot of questions. Is this bicycle within your budget? How much maintenance is required for this bike? Can I find this bike used and save a lot of money? Are there any adjustments or modifications on the horizon for this bicycle? Should I wait until I see the newest innovations? What kind of accessories will I need for this bike?
6.Know your size and fit. There are multiple factors that affect the decision behind the right bicycle. Height, weight, fitness level, gender and even age all contribute to the customization of a good bike. Safety should be the number one concern on any bike owners mind. Not just road safety or judging conditions, you do not want to put any unnecessary strain on your back, neck, legs or arms.
7.Don't take my word for it. Though your interest in cycling may be new to you, there are many addicts out there. Beginners, cruiser, mountain bikers and "live to bike" types; your research should not be limited to retail experts. Ask those folks who are into it or getting into it, just like you. Their input is independent and free!
8.Go B&M. Head over to your local Brick and Mortar Bike Shop. With all the latest gadgets and different components available its nice to be able to compare them side by side. It's always good to develop relationships with guys in a bike shop. Their expertise will certainly come in handy. Even if you order your bike online you will eventually nned to tune it up or change out parts. Knowing guys in your local shop will always be a help.
9.Birds of a Feather flock together. If going to a bike shop is too inconvenient or bike sales people are too overzealous for you, borrow a bike from friend. More than likely, your friends share similar interests and fitness level. Even if you a friends with a bike enthusiast, he or she will still be able to offer some advice on brands and characteristics to suit your needs.
10.Trust Yourself. While all of this research and question asking is bound to help, at some point you may feel overwhelmed. At this point you need to trust you gut and go with your instincts. Ultimately you need to make the call and will be the one riding your bike. Don't buy a bike that will impress others, impress yourself. Get what you want and you will love your purchase.
Remember to have some fun while you are looking for the right bike. If you enjoy researching the bike you are going to love riding it for years to come. Picking the right bike can be easy and fun if you remember what you are looking for. Don't get caught up in technical jargon or component details, have some fun and trust yourself. If you can remember to do those two things you'll enjoy your bike for years to come.
1.Assess your needs. One of the best ways to waste your time and money is to purchase something that isn't right for you. There are so many options to choose from that it actually helps to be particular. Think about the ways that you plan to use your bike, how often will you be using it and how much maintenance it may need. What you are looking for may be totally different from what you need.
2.Mind the dip. I've seen so many casual cyclists make the mistake of buying an expensive mountain bike just to cruise around the look park paths. The most expensive bike out there is the one you buy that is completely wrong for you. Make sure you consider your environment. Are you travelling in an urban area or on an unpaved hiking trail? Either way, there is a bike out there specifically designed for your needs.
3.Know your skill level. If you've done the Tour de France, chances are you won't need any help choosing the right bicycle and your skill level probably falls into the top 1% of the world. If you don't fall into that category, here are few things to keep in mind. Are you looking for a bike to give you an interval workout? Do you plan on travelling on a lot of steep hills? Are you planning on hauling heavy loads with your bicycle? If you are not looking at your bike as a means to facilitate your only exercise, you may be looking for more of a comfort bike.
4.Review, Research, Repeat. I'm not suggesting that you write a book report on the history of the bicycle and its socioeconomic influence on the human race. It is a good idea to have knowledge about the bikes that suit your needs. You may be surprised by the amount of options available. In addition, some bike retailers may be more reliable than others. Reading the reviews of other people and researching your bike are great independent tools to help you on your way.
5.Ask a lot of questions. Is this bicycle within your budget? How much maintenance is required for this bike? Can I find this bike used and save a lot of money? Are there any adjustments or modifications on the horizon for this bicycle? Should I wait until I see the newest innovations? What kind of accessories will I need for this bike?
6.Know your size and fit. There are multiple factors that affect the decision behind the right bicycle. Height, weight, fitness level, gender and even age all contribute to the customization of a good bike. Safety should be the number one concern on any bike owners mind. Not just road safety or judging conditions, you do not want to put any unnecessary strain on your back, neck, legs or arms.
7.Don't take my word for it. Though your interest in cycling may be new to you, there are many addicts out there. Beginners, cruiser, mountain bikers and "live to bike" types; your research should not be limited to retail experts. Ask those folks who are into it or getting into it, just like you. Their input is independent and free!
8.Go B&M. Head over to your local Brick and Mortar Bike Shop. With all the latest gadgets and different components available its nice to be able to compare them side by side. It's always good to develop relationships with guys in a bike shop. Their expertise will certainly come in handy. Even if you order your bike online you will eventually nned to tune it up or change out parts. Knowing guys in your local shop will always be a help.
9.Birds of a Feather flock together. If going to a bike shop is too inconvenient or bike sales people are too overzealous for you, borrow a bike from friend. More than likely, your friends share similar interests and fitness level. Even if you a friends with a bike enthusiast, he or she will still be able to offer some advice on brands and characteristics to suit your needs.
10.Trust Yourself. While all of this research and question asking is bound to help, at some point you may feel overwhelmed. At this point you need to trust you gut and go with your instincts. Ultimately you need to make the call and will be the one riding your bike. Don't buy a bike that will impress others, impress yourself. Get what you want and you will love your purchase.
Remember to have some fun while you are looking for the right bike. If you enjoy researching the bike you are going to love riding it for years to come. Picking the right bike can be easy and fun if you remember what you are looking for. Don't get caught up in technical jargon or component details, have some fun and trust yourself. If you can remember to do those two things you'll enjoy your bike for years to come.
About the Author:
PJ invites you to take a look at her selection of comfort bikes, including new women's comfort bikes in her online store, The Comfort Bike Shop. She started the site to serve the needs of beginning cyclists and those looking to enjoy the weekends on their bicycles.
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