Many people have found reason in taking up cycling. Some decide they want to cycle more now because the price of gas has risen so high, and because it costs so much to keep a car maintained. Some decide to cycle because they want to have less of an impact on the environment when traveling.
Still others simply ride bicycles for fun. If you fall into these categories or are in one of your own and you are shopping for a new bike, take the time to read up on some of the things you should know before buying. Choosing the right bicycle is more than just picking the one that's the best looking. Contained hereafter are some hints and tips you can use to pick the bicycle that is perfect for you.
The first thing you should think about, which is pretty obvious, needs to be the cost. This doesn't mean other things aren't important, like where you are going to ride or how often you will, but it does mean that the cost of the bicycle should be one of your main concerns.
The price ranges of good bikes go anywhere from the hundreds to the thousands. That doesn't mean all bicycles are going to cost that much, so don't worry; there is no reason why you can't find a great bicycle that is in your price range. The local auctions are some of the best ways to find wonderful deals on things like bicycles and equipment so you won't find yourself spending too much money. Some individuals may be surprised at the recommendation that the seat not be adjusted to the lowest setting available, which causes it to contact the crossbar. You want to adjust it up a few inches and take those inches into account when you are choosing your bike. You want to have the comfort of the seat being higher up than the crossbar on the bike, because if the seat is sitting on the crossbar, you will not be comfortable. 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.
Which angle you tilt your seat at is also an important factor. There are several angles you can tilt your seat at. Some cyclists are more comfortable in a this slightly forward position, and therefore, find a completely flat seat inappropriate for them. The seat allows you to make this adjustment to conform to your desired riding position. You can always leave the seat in the position it is in, but you will most likely find it to be very uncomfortable to ride. When you are searching for the appropriate cycling bicycle to suit you, there are a number of factors to consider. Are you going to be using your bike every day or will you only be riding every so often? What seat height gives you the most comfortable ride? Would you rather have room between your feet and the ground or would you rather be able to touch the ground with your feet when you come to a stop? You will want to answer all of these important questions, as you make your bicycle selection.