There are many people who decide to cycle as a way to get from one place to another. Many of these reasons are not at all related with how you like to travel. Some people take up cycling in order to exercise. Others go cycling because they compete in it as a sport. And there are others who decide to take up cycling as a hobby to share with their family or friends. Regardless of your reason for needing to find a bicycle, you need to take some things into consideration when the time comes to choose the perfect bicycle for you. Here are some hints to help you make your choice.
One of the major parts of choosing the right cycling bicycle for you is making sure that the bicycle is the right size. To do this, you will need to measure your inseam. Simply measure through your inner leg from your groin to the bottom of your foot to find out your inseam. You should ideally be able to place both feet on the ground when sitting in on your bike. This means that you will be able to stop your bicycle with your feet if the brakes do not work—without having to tilt the bicycle and risk doing harm to it and to yourself. You shouldn't keep more 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. When you bring the seat up a few inches, you are going to have more room between the crossbar and you, and this will make for a much more comfortable ride. The best way to adjust your seat to the correct height is to place your foot on the pedal at the lowest setting and bring the seat up as high as it can go so that your leg is almost fully extended.
Another thing to keep in mind is purchasing safety gear. Bicycle helmets have come a long way since they were first introduced. They are now designed to offer better protection while looking a bit better, as well. You should never, ever ride your bicycle unless you are wearing your helmet. You don't even realize how important this thing can be in saving your life.
You might also consider investing in elbow, knee, wrist and ankle guards—especially if you are going to be going “off road†on your bicycle. If you are going to be using your bicycle as your sole means of transportation, you should think of investing in some pants clips as well. Pants clips are designed to hold your pants in place so they don't get caught up in the chain or the gears of the bike.
Your main priority is the physical fit of your bike. When deciding upon using a bike for transportation you need to keep this in mind. You need to feel safe but also comfortable on your bike, otherwise you won't enjoy riding it!