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Cycling Basics: Reviews | Apparel & Equipment | Bike Types | Cycling Books
Bicycling is a fun way to get exercise and also for running errands, commuting to work, exploring trails, and of course, racing. Depending on where you plan to ride and what your goals are (cycling only, triathlons, Ironman, city casual, etc.) and what terrains you are riding on, pick from the appropriate type of bikes below.
Road Bikes
Best for smooth pavement (asphalt/concrete), road bikes are generally lighter than mountain or comfort bikes. Road bikes are good for fitness riding, commuting, long-distance/event rides, touring and racing. Some models are built for speed with a more aerodynamic riding positioning, while others provide a more upright riding position. Road bikes may include racks, lighting systems or fenders for commuting or touring use.
Road bikes have 2 basic handlebar styles: flat-bar and drop-bar. Drop-bar handlebars are lightweight and aerodynamic for those wanting to go faster efficiently. They also provide more riding and hand positions than flat-bars but may put more strain on your back if you are less flexible. Flat-bar handlebars combine the efficiency of drop-bar road bikes with a slightly more upright riding position. This allows you to sit up in a higher and more relaxed position thus reducing strain on your hands, wrists and shoulders. This position however is less efficient aerodynamically when compared to a drop-bar road bike.
Prices start at $500.
Mountain Bikes
Best for dirt, trails and gravel roads, mountain bikes are designed with shock-absorbing features and better braking systems. Mountain bikes can handle dirt trails and the rocks, roots, bumps and ruts that come with them. They feature lower gears than most road bikes to better handle steeper terrain. Mountain bikes can be a good choice for commuting because they can withstand potholes while still providing comfort.
Prices start at $400.
Urban & Commuting Bikes
These bikes has characteristics of both a hybrid bike and a cruiser bike. Best for pavement or gravel roads, these bikes are designed with city streets in mind. Urban bikes are rugged and sturdy with tough frames and strong wheels. They feature an upright riding position that allows you to better see, and be seen by, motorists. Many commuter-friendly models include racks, lighting systems or fenders. These bikes are also sometimes called ‘Dutch bikes‘ because of their resemblance to the everyday bikes used in Amsterdam and other bike-friendly European cities.
Prices start at $500.
Comfort & Hybrid Bikes
Think of the hybrid bike as a cross between a road and a mountain bike thus combining the best features from both. Best for pavement or dirt roads, these bikes emphasize comfort and ease of handling. They are ideal for riding around flat neighborhoods, parks and bike paths. Most have large tires so it is easier to balance and you can also ride them on gravel or dirt as well as pavement. They are generally a little more comfortable and stable than road bikes but not as fast.
Prices start at $400.
Cruisers Bikes
These old style bikes and commonly used for short-distance commuting and errands. They have wide balloon tires and upright handlebars that enable a good viewing position of the world around you. Most cruiser bikes are single-speed or 3-speed, and have the old-fashioned coaster brake (where you pedal backwards to stop) – good for flat terrain. Some cruiser bike manufacturers make a wide array of colorful models to suit the fashion tastes of any bike afficionado or company logos.
Prices start at $500.
Other Bikes
Tri-specific bikes are built for triathlons and they put you farther forward over the front wheel than other types of bikes. They are more aerodynamic and work your hamstrings more efficiently, which helps your legs in the run phase. But these bikes are more difficult to maneuver for general cycling, they don’t have drop handlebars, they can be uncomfortable for long rides and their braking is not as convenient.
Folding bikes can be folded up and placed in a carrying bag thus makingthem handy for commuters with limited storage space at home or the office. They are lightweight yet strong and can be folded up quickly and easily. Folding bikes are also a good choice for those who want to travel with their bike.
Single-gear bikes don’t a freewheel mechanism and only one gear. These single gear bikes are popular with urban riding enthusiasts because of their simplicity, low maintenance and low weight.
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