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 choose to cycle because they need the exercise. Others go cycling because they compete in it as a sport. Still others ride bicycles as a hobby because they enjoy the feeling of riding a bicycle around their neighborhood. When deciding to purchase a cycling bicycle, there will be a number of elements that need to be taken into account, and this is true for those wishing to enjoy cycling as a hobby, sport, or a means of getting from point A to point B. Here are some hints to help you make your choice.
It goes without saying that choosing the correctly sized bike is of utmost importance. Begin by measuring your inseam. Your inseam is the amount of inches from the bottom of your foot, up the inside of your leg to your groin. You should be able to sit on your bike while keeping both feet flat on the ground. This means that you will be able to stop your bicycle with your feet if the brakes do not work—without having to tilt the bicycle and risk doing harm to it and to yourself.
Don't ever make the purchase until you have tried the bicycle out. You should never buy something you haven't tried out for at least a few minutes. It's exactly the same as buying a used car; you would never find yourself buying a used car without taking it out for a ride.
The same rule applies to a bicycle. You really need to do this if you are going to spend a lot of money on the bicycle, and if you are going to ride the bicycle a lot. You need to make sure the bike is a perfect fit. This doesn't only mean physically fit you, this also means one that easily fits your riding styles. You would never want to ride a bicycle that was uncomfortable for you.
Be certain to leave adequate room between yourself and your bikes crossbar. When you choose your bike, adjust the seat up a few inches from the crossbar and then sit on the bike. Make certain you can still place both feet flatly on the ground. Each type of bike requires different clearances. For example a touring bike will require around an inch. With a mountain bike however you will need some more, 3 inches should suffice. You have many things to consider when getting a bicycle. The durability page of a bike may be the most important thing depending on how you intend to use it. You may simply what the most reliable bike for getting you around the city. Price may be the biggest thing you want to consider. Research bikes before you decide which you want, then shop around before purchasing. Never jump on the first thing that is pretty, because you never know if you are making a mistake.