How to Choose the Right Bike for You

When you’re getting ready to pick a new bike, the sheer number of choices available can be overwhelming. That goes double if you want to purchase a higher-quality bike than something you can just grab off the rack at a big box store. Before you go to your local bike sales shop in Boca Raton, FL, read this easy guide to choosing the right bike for your needs.

What type of bike do you want?

To decide what kind of bike you want, think about where you’ll be riding it. Are you planning to take it out on trails and roads, or will you be sticking to pavement and asphalt? Most bikes can handle multiple kinds of roads, so pick your bike based on what you’ll be doing the most often.

If you think you’ll primarily stick to paved roads around town, road bikes, electric bikes and hybrids are suitable, but if you’ll spend the majority of your time on natural surfaces and pavement, skip the road bike.

For all-road riding, which ranges from pavement to dirt roads, gravel roads and outback, get a gravel or touring bike. Finally, if you think you’ll stick to dirt roads and bike trails, electric bikes or mountain bikes are your best bet.

Each type of bike has subtypes, so ask your local bike shop staff to help you determine what’s best for your needs.

What’s your budget and desired performance level?

Next, decide how much you want to spend. You can find a range of options within each type and subset, but if you want premium features or materials, expect that you’ll pay more. For example, the type of suspension you choose will affect your budget—full-suspension bikes offer smoother rides, but they also cost more. If you choose an electric bike of any type, that will also cost more than a standard bike in the same category.

The frame material also makes a big difference. Aluminum frames are standard, so they cost less than carbon—however, carbon is lightweight and offers superior performance. Finally, the bike’s components and their quality will also add to your overall cost. Determine which components are most important to you, and put your budget there. For example, you might choose to get higher-quality brakes, wheels or gears, depending on how you’ll use the bike.

How to make sure your bike fits

Last but not least, you want your bike to fit your height. Most bike manufacturers have charts where you can determine your frame size, according to your height. Once you know the general size you’re looking for, your bike shop can help you make adjustments to the seats, handlebars and more to ensure a comfortable fit and safe ride.

Now that you know what goes into choosing a bike, it’s time to pick your own. Bicycle Doctor House Calls offers bike sales and rentals in Boca Raton, FL. Give us a call today to learn more about our selection—we look forward to helping you choose!

Categorised in: Bike Shop

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