Many people have found reason in taking up cycling. Some folks are having a hard time keeping up with the rising cost of gasoline and maintenance bills, so they choose to ride a bike. Others choose it because riding a bike is better for the environment than travelling in a car or using public transportation.
And then there are those who choose to cycle because they simply love it. Whatever your reason for going cycle shopping there are some definite criteria that you need to think about before you make your choice. You will be surprised at how much more there is to a bicycle than just the looks. This article is intended to give you a head's up on what you should keep in mind when it's time to buy your bicycle.
You must make sure you get a bike that is the appropriate size for you. To do this, you will need to measure your inseam. Simply measure the distance from your groin to the bottom of your foot, down the inside of your leg. The goal is to be able to sit on the seat of the bike and still rest your feet flat on the ground. If you can do this you need not worry about stopping in an emergency if your brakes malfunction. You shouldn't keep the bicycle seat at the lowest setting, either. Be sure to consider these few necessary inches between the seat and the crossbar, when you are out bicycle shopping. The added space between you and the crossbar, afforded by raising the seat slightly, will make a positive impact on your level of comfort. 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.
Be sure to allow room between the crossbar and yourself. When browsing for a bike try some out, make sure the seat is a click now 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. For example a touring bike will require around an inch. With a mountain bike however you will need some more, 3 inches should suffice.
The idea behind buying cycling bicycles is to make sure that you and the bicycle fit well together—physically. If you intend to use your bike a lot, perhaps as your main method of transport, it is important you keep this in mind. Comfort and safety are both very important.