What to Think About When Buying a Bicycle

Bicycling.

I know what you’re thinking, a bike is a bike right? Wrong. There are many different kinds of bikes and they’re all used for unique purposes whether that is racing, mountain biking, or doing tricks like the pros of the X games. So how can you tell the difference between bicycles, and which one is right for you? This article will give you a few pointers on how to tell which bicycle you want to buy.

Will and Where Will You Ride?

Like noted earlier, there are many different kinds of bicycles, and the one you buy should be uniquely appropriate for whatever you location is. Sit down and think of all the ways you plan to use your bike: will you be using it with the kids? Will you be using this bike in a race? You need to ask yourself these questions before you even go to the store. You should also make sure that you will even use the bike before you buy it. It’s very easy to decide you really want a bike and go out and buy it on impulse. You need to avoid this at all costs because bikes are very expensive, make sure you don’t regret your purchase.

Where to Shop

Avoid buying your bike at a yard sale or discount store. These are more than likely low quality bikes and they won’t last you a long period of time like a bike from a store would. There are many bike stores that owned by the company that assembles the bikes. A notable example would be Schwinn or any other bike dealer that is labeled under the National Bicycle Dealers Association. These stores will be extra helpful in your quest to buy a bike because they will be able to answer any questions you may have and will probably even lead to you bikes you may have not seen before.

Cost and Specifications

Finally you should consider the cost and specifications of the bike you’re considering buying. Specifications means that you should make sure that the bike is an appropriate height for you and that the bike seems to be made out of quality material that doesn’t seem crudely assembled. You can expect that any high quality bike will be anywhere from $150 to $1000+ dollars. This may seem pricey but these bikes are built to last and are well worth it if you’re really an enthusiast.

Hopefully this article has taught you that there is more to buying a bike than just going to Wal-Mart and finding one you think looks acceptable. Question your needs and purchase a bike that both meets your criteria and is appropriate for your goals.

Photo Credits: red twolips

Originally posted 2009-10-05 03:43:30.

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