Many reasons will push you to choose a bicycle as a new mode of transportation. 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. Another group of individuals take pleasure in a simple, relaxed ride through their neighborhood. Whatever the reason you have for wanting a cycling bicycle, there are a lot of different things to consider when you are trying to decide which cycling bicycle is right for you. Here are some hints to help you make your choice.
Consider how the bicycle brakes, for one. Brakes are very important on a bike, you need to understand how they work and what type you will most likely need for your bike. If you only want a bike to use occasionally as a hobby, you can go with normal brakes which are just small pads designed to clasp the wheel when used. If you decide you want your bike for more off-roading adventures, you need a different kind of braking system that can keep up with that particular style. Disc brakes sit within the wheels themselves and work are less likely to give out under stress.
For road bikes take away 9 inches from the total of your inseam. This is because of the size of the tires on your road bike. Designed for cycling around the city road bike tires are thin. For a mountain bike take away 12 inches from your inseam. This is because the tires of a mountain bike are different than those on a road bike. Mountain bike tires are thicker than road bike tires, designed for rocky terrain. You can always use a mountain bike for city cycling, although this is not how they are best used.
Be certain to leave adequate room between yourself and your bikes crossbar. When browsing for a bike try some out, make sure the seat is a few inches above the crossbar. Sit on it and make sure you can rest your feet flat to the ground. Each type of bike requires different clearances. A good example is a touring bike, with these bikes you will only need around 1" difference. However for a mountain bike you will need 3" between the crossbar and yourself. You need to consider several things when choosing your bicycle for the first time. Will this be an activity that you enjoy daily, or will you only be taking your bicycle out on special occasions? At what height do you feel the most comfortable? Are you a person who would rather your feet be flat on the ground over here when you are sitting or would you rather have a little room between your feet and the ground? Think about all this when buying your bike, and you will make the right choice.