The preferred mode of transport has taken an unlikely turn in recent years. Cars have long been the most likely mode of transport in developed countries, however bikes are beginning to rise in popularity. Perhaps this because the last couple of decades have seen a major shift in the popularity of “living green.†Maybe it is because the cost of gas is just too high. Whatever the reason, there are more cyclists on the road than ever. Maybe you have considered buying a bike? If you have then there are several things you should look at when you do.
One way to choose the bike that fits you is to sit on the bike and see if your feet will rest flat on the floor, in case you need to stop yourself. There are certain professionals, though, who disagree with this concept. These people explain that the best way to pick a bike is to ensure there is a few inches between the ground and your feet, and you will be provided with a much more comfortable ride. You will likely find that the seat will rest too near the crossbar, if, when you sit on the seat, your knees are bent with your feet flat on the ground, which is an indication that the seat needs to be raised. If you can bend your knees, your knees will come up too high when you are pedaling. 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. Always consider that you are going to have to raise the seat up off the crossbar when you are shopping for your bike. The added space between you and the crossbar, afforded by raising the seat slightly, will make a positive impact on your level of comfort. The goal here is to create a height with your seat so that when your pedal is at its lowest position your leg should be almost (but not quite) fully extended.
Be sure to allow room between the crossbar and yourself. When selecting find more information a bike make sure you move the seat up slightly, to around a few inches above the height of the crossbar. Make sure you can place both feet on the ground if need be. Each type of bike requires different clearances. If you are buying a touring bike, for example, you only need an inch or so of clearance. For mountain bikes you will require somewhere around 3 inches.
There are many different things you should consider when the time comes to buy the perfect bicycle for yourself. It can be a bit tedious and frustrating to try and figure out what all you need when you are buying a bicycle. As long as you go prepared and know what you need and are looking for, you can shed some of that frustration and find the perfect bike.