If you’re just starting to get into biking as a hobby, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of information available for beginners and the choices available to you. Even just the basics of picking out your first bike can be a bit intimidating. If you want a bike that’s right for you, use this brief guide to get you started.
Road Bikes
These bikes are designed to be ridden fast on smoother pavement, like asphalt or a sidewalk. They have smooth, skinny tires and tend to be built with lighter bike frames than many other types of bikes, making than an ideal choice for speed. Just make sure you’re maintaining the tires properly. High pressure road bike tires should be pumped up at least once a week in order to keep the right pressure.
Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes are exactly what they sound like – they’re designed to take you on rougher areas and off the beaten path. The wider tires and sturdier frames might not be the lightest out there, but they’re incredibly durable. Many are built with added suspension to handle some of the roughest terrain out there. If you want to take your biking to new heights, look for a mountain bike that’s well built with a sturdy frame.
Fixy Bikes
Fixed-gear bikes, or fixy bikes, are designed to be ridden on tracks specifically built for bike racing. These bikes lack the ability to coast, meaning that in order for the bike to be moving, you’ll have to keep the bike pedals moving. However, these bikes have also become popular with commuters due to their low maintenance and simple design, so if you’re looking to race without worrying about the mechanical aspects of your bike, this could be the right one for you.
Custom Bikes
Not all bikes will be right for you the second you buy them. In order to get all the qualities you’re looking for out of your bike, you might need to customize yours a bit. Whether you need new bike chains, brake levers, or even an entirely new frame, buying individual parts can be a great way to customize your ride.