Biking is a great way not only to get around but to see things that you might miss while driving or riding in a car. The type of bike you need depends on many factors, one of the most significant of which may be where and how you intend to ride it. Here is an overview of some of the most common types of bikes and the most appropriate riding habits for each.
Cruiser Bikes
Cruiser bikes are valued for being easy to ride. Extra weight makes them stable, and a low axle height makes falling off a cruiser bike unlikely because it is easy to put your foot down and catch yourself. Beach cruiser companies often design these bikes with a step-through design, and they also typically boast storage racks, chain guards, and fenders, which gives them a nostalgic look. Cruisers are good for leisurely rides over flat terrain but do not do well on hills because of their weight.
Road Bikes
A road bike is designed for well-maintained surfaces, but while a cruiser is built for stability, a road bike is built for speed. You can certainly take a road bike on a casual neighborhood ride, but it has the capability to handle so much more.
Mountain Bikes
As implied by the name, mountain bikes are designed specifically for rugged terrain. Their relatively light weight and multiple gears makes them easier to navigate on hilly terrain, and their nubby tires provide traction on unpaved trails that may be muddy. However, some people ride mountain bikes in less demanding environments because they like the more comfortable upright body position that they provide. A few modifications, e.g., smooth tires, can make a mountain bike more acceptable for riding in an urban or suburban area.
Hybrid Bikes
Perhaps you haven’t decided yet what kind of riding you intend to do. If so, you may want to consider hybrid bikes for sale. These bikes combine features of the mountain bike and the road bike to be more versatile. A hybrid bike may be good for a starter, but once you get a better idea of your riding preferences, you may want to swap it for a bike that is more specialized.
Electric Bikes
Electric bikes come in all different styles. What sets them apart is that they have a battery-powered motor. At the very least, the motor provides an assist to make pedaling easier. There are also e-bikes that allow you to coast along on the throttle power alone.
When considering the purchase of an electric bike, many people wonder, “how steep a hill can an electric bike climb?” It depends on several factors, such as the combined weight of you and your bike and the power of the motor. For steeper bikes or heavier loads, you may need a more powerful motor between 500 watts and 750 watts. It also depends on how much effort you want to put into pedaling. The more powerful the motor, the less effort you must expend.
The wide range of bicycles available can be intimidating at first. However, once you know what you need, it becomes easier to find a bike that works for you. Knowledgeable retailers can provide more detailed information about the different types of bikes.
*This is a collaborative post