In the last couple of decades a major shift has been happening in transportation. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. Perhaps the trend can be put down to 'green' thinking, or maybe just the prices of gas are starting to get to people. No matter what has caused it, the fact is there are now more cyclists on the road than in a long while. Have you been thinking about getting a bicycle? If you have then there are several things you should look at when you do.
You need to make sure you pick a bike that is the right size. Begin by measuring your inseam. Simply measure through your inner leg from your groin to the bottom of your foot to find out your inseam. When you get a bike you should be able to lay both feet flat to the ground if need be. 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. Some individuals may be surprised at the recommendation that the seat not be adjusted to the lowest setting available, which causes it to contact the crossbar. Be sure to consider these few necessary inches between the seat and the crossbar, when you are out bicycle shopping. Adjusting your seat up a few inches will give you more clearance between you and the crossbar of your bicycle, which can add quite a bit of comfort to your ride. The goal here is to create a height Bonuses with your seat so that when your pedal is at its lowest position your leg should be almost (but not quite) fully extended.
Don’t forget to buy your safety gear. Bicycles of then and bicycles of now are two completely different things. Not only do they look a lot better than they used to, they are also built better to provide greater protection. You should never even think about riding the bike without first putting on your helmet. You don't even realize how important this thing can be in saving your life.
If you are going to be taking your bike off road, then you need to also invest in some knee and elbow pads, as well as ankle and wrist guards. Another good idea is to buy some pants clips if you are going to be riding your bike as your primary form of transportation. They work by clipping your pants out of the way so they can't get tangled in the chain or gears. You need to consider several things when choosing your bicycle for the first time. Are you going to be using your bike every day or will you only be riding every so often? Which height of bike is the most comfortable fit for you? Would you rather have room between your feet and the ground or would you rather be able to touch the ground with your feet when you come to a stop? You will need to consider each of these things when choosing your bicycle..