Learn The Secrets Of Choosing A Bicycle That's A Perfect Match For You And Your Kind Of Ride
Choosing a bicycle that is right for you is the biggest single factor in determining how much you will enjoy your riding experience. So make sure to do your homework beforehand. You will be glad that you did.
There are a lot of choices in choosing a bicycle but it does not have to be confusing. You can zero in on your perfect bike, easily, by reviewing the questions below and the different styles shown.
The best choice is a bike that fits your needs, your body, and your budget.
I suggest that before you start that you read the
cycling tips.
Some of the questions that you need to ask yourself when choosing a bicycle are…….
What have you ridden before that you liked or disliked?
Who will you be riding with? If it is with a group of friends you should buy the same type of bicycle.
What kind of terrain will you be riding on? Is it flat, or hilly, or some of both?
Where do you plan to ride? Is it close to home or will I have to transport my bike to another location?
Will you be riding off-road or on paved surfaces?
What is most important to you? Is it speed, comfort, versatility, easy storage, or ease of riding?
Do you have a budget that you want to stay within? Remember you will need to buy some accessories to go with your bicycle?
Do you have any physical limitations that you need to consider?
Is ease of getting on and off the bike an issue?
Would you be more comfortable with a three wheeler that has a more stable ride and ease of boarding?
Would pedal assist, as with an electric bike, be more suitable?
Would a build it yourself kit appeal to you?
Always look for quality
components
when selecting a bike.
Here are some popular choices.
Road bikes are designed primarily for speed and distance but are not suited for off-road or rough terrain. They appeal the most to very active boomers who have been riding for years. The aerodynamic riding position and the skinny tires make pedaling easier but the the riding position and thin saddle can be tough on boomer bodies. Click on image for more details
A mountain bike is made to be very rugged with higher ground clearance for clearing obstacles on rough terrain. They usually have knobby tires and high gear ratios to enhance climbing ability while riding off road. Off road riding generally, requires a high fitness level. Click on image for more details
A hybrid bicycle, sometimes referred to as a crossover, combines some of the best features of a road bike with some features from a mountain bike making it extremely versatile.
They use larger diameter wheels than a mountain bike but are designed to give the rider a much more upright riding position than a road bike.Click on image for more details.
A chainless bicycle can be the answer to a cyclist prayer and may be a sign of things to come. The chain that is used on a conventional bike is replaced by a drive shaft from the pedal crank shaft to a set of gears on the rear hub. Click on image for details
A comfort bike is designed for the ultimate in comfort.They are, basically, a mountain or cruiser bike modified to enhance the comfort level. They often include high gear ratios, wider seats, and shock absorbers, and are the most popular bike with boomers. Click on image for more details
Boomers and seniors are opting for step through bikes more and more every year. Ease of mounting and dismounting is especially a plus if you are not as limber as you once were. A lot of step through riders have become real "converts" and would never go back to a more "conventional" bike.Click on image for more details
In choosing a bicycle you may want to consider a semi-recumbent like the Day 6 bike. This bike combines all of the features to give the maximum comfort including a contoured seat back that is adjustable both horizontally and vertically, step through frame design, and raised handlebars. Click on image for more details
The EZ boarding bike was specifically designed for boomers with all of the popular features to give the rider the ultimate in comfort and simplicity. This bike is designed for men as well as women and was was featured on the NBC's TODAY show "best boomer bikes" segment. Click on image for more details
A recumbent bike is fast and comfortable and is available in a wide range of configurations. Their popularity with boomers has increased dramatically as they become more available.They are best suited for road or smooth trail riding but not a good choice for off road riding. The seat back is a great feature. Click on image for more details
A tandem bicycle is the storied bicycle built for two. They can be fast, with the right team, but it takes practice to learn to ride one. They are great for boomer couples that want to ride together. Click on image for more details
A cruiser bike is sort of a forty's retro bike that you see in the park, or at the beach. They are very popular with older boomers that just want an occasional leisurely ride. Cruisers are usually single speed and rather heavy so they are not a very good choice for hilly terrain. Click on image for more details
These Nirve bikes are deluxe cruisers and are known for their original frame designs, striking graphics and colors. They have a strong appeal to cruiser lovers. Originally designed as beach cruisers they are just as cool along streets or bicycle paths. Click on image for more details
The Nirve automatic shifting cruiser is available in both men’s and women’s models and features an automatic 3 speed transmission by Shimano® that shifts just like your car. It actually mimics the automatic shifting of your car's transmission so it levels out the hills and senses when it needs to shift. Click on image for details.
In choosing a bicycle you may also want to consider an Adult tricycle. They are popular with seniors as well as people with handicaps or even balance problems. They are easy to board and offer a very stable ride. The variety of designs and styles is continues to grow. Click on image for more details
A buddy bike is a great way to share some real quality time with a child, or grandchild, and teach them how to ride safely. Your child sits in front of you, pedals and steers with you, but you are in the driver's seat and you control the balance. They are great for special needs children also. The child feels safe and protected between your arms. Click on image for more details
A folding bike is great for easy storage and transport and are popular with boaters, commuters, and apartment dwellers. And, many of them ride and handle just like their full-sized cousins. Current designs enable fast and easy folding and unfolding. Click on image for more details
An electric bike is another option for boomers that would love to ride but feel they need pedal assist. They are pedal optional so the rider can pedal for exercise, use the motor on climbs, or sit back and let the motor do all of the work. Most can go up to 20 miles at up to about 15 MPH on a single charge. Click on image for more details
The Deluxe Chopper is hand made with an original frame design, striking graphics and colors, superior comfort, along with quality construction and materials. This all adds up to a bicycle with a definite "cool" factor that appeals to a lot of boomers.Click on image for more details
A heavy duty bike known as the New Leaf is custom designed, engineered, and built for large riders. This beauty rides like a dream and holds up to 550 pounds.
If you're looking for a bike to have fun with, to motivate you and to keep you moving, this is the cycle for you. Click on image for more details
Traillink.com is an excellent source of information on scenic bicycle trails throughout the USA.
