Here we provide tools and information about bicycles to help
educate and encourage people to get out and ride, be healthy and help the
environment.
Beginner's Guide to Choosing a Bicycle
Checking out a bike at the local bicycle shop. You have many different styles to choose from.
If you've dreamt about pedaling the open road, getting to work in a more environmentally friendly way, staying in shape or saving on fuel costs; it’s time you thought about getting on a bicycle. Or back on it.
There are so many opportunities available to you through cycling. Not only can you really explore your natural environment both at home or abroad, but you can be self-propelled, independent, make new friends, save cash at the gas station and contribute to a greener, more sustainable world. It’s a win-win for everyone, including your wallet.
Things to consider before buying a bicycle:
- What types of riding will I do? Leisure pursuits, getting fit, commuting, touring, racing and off-road are some examples.
- Whats my budget? Bicycles vary widely in quality, size, shape and form, so having a budget will help narrow your search.
- Is my level of fitness a consideration? Body shape, size and and your overall health may affect the type of bicycle that is best suited for your.
As you read this guide, knowing your goals will go a long way towards helping you buy the right bicycle.
What Size Bicycle Do I Need?
Once you have determined the bicycle that bests suits,
you’re ready to shop. However before you hand over your cash or credit card,
you should do a fit to ensure the bicycle that best suits your riding style and
needs is also the right physical size. Fitting the bike will go a long way
towards how comfortable and successful it will be. It’s also particularly
important for children, as buying a bike they can “grow into” can actually be
dangerous if it’s oversize.
Fitting the bicycle
To avoid feeling cramped or awkward and make the most of
your pedaling action you should ensure the bike frame, seat and handlebars are
sized correctly for you.
Some websites provide tools that will calculate your bicycle
frame size. These usually provide good starting point when shopping for a
bicycle. They take your height and bicycling inseam, and return a recommended
frame size.
You'll get a personalized bicycle size sheet that you can print and take with you when looking at bikes.
Frame size chart for road bikes
frame sizing chart that helps you figure out
the frame size you need.
Bicycle Sizing Chart
Sizing charts using your height and bicycling inseam (the
distance from the ground to your crotch) can also give you a basic idea of the
frame size you need for your bike. These sizing charts are available online or
you could ask at your local bicycle shop.
The bike measurements are given for the frame of the bike, which, for road and mountain bikes, is the distance from the top of the seat tube (rather than the seat) to the center of the bottom bracket. For a mountain bike you normally require a frame 10-12 centimeters smaller than a road bike. Remember the chart is a guideline only and the final size you choose may vary.
The bike measurements are given for the frame of the bike, which, for road and mountain bikes, is the distance from the top of the seat tube (rather than the seat) to the center of the bottom bracket. For a mountain bike you normally require a frame 10-12 centimeters smaller than a road bike. Remember the chart is a guideline only and the final size you choose may vary.
Racing bicycle with traditional style frame. The frame is
the main part of a bicycle.
Frame
The frame size of the bike must be right for you, otherwise
cycling can become hard work and uncomfortable. If you’re too cramped you won’t
be able to extend your leg into a full cycle to maximize power. Alternatively
if the frame is too big you will get not get a full drive from your leg
rotation either.
A quick way to check the frame size is to stand over the frame with both feet on the ground. If you have an inch or so between the frame of a racing, touring or hybrid bike and your crotch it should be about right. For a mountain bike the distance to the frame should be greater.
A quick way to check the frame size is to stand over the frame with both feet on the ground. If you have an inch or so between the frame of a racing, touring or hybrid bike and your crotch it should be about right. For a mountain bike the distance to the frame should be greater.
For children the best way to ensure the frame is the correct size is to have the child sit on the seat and be able to place the balls of their feet on the ground and reach the handlebars comfortably. You should also ensure they have a 25-50mm clearance between the bar and their crotch if they are standing over the center bar.
Adjustable Seat and Post
Changing your seat height is the simplest adjustment you can
make.
Seat Position
Some riders prefer a seat that is tilted slightly forward or
backward but most prefer one that is pretty much level so you don’t feel you’re
sliding forward or slipping off the back. It may take some trial and error to
see what works best for you. But basically the seat should be positioned so
your feet will rest naturally above the pedals and when you extend your leg
through the cycle it is almost completely straight at the bottom. You should
not have to move your hips from side to side to reach the pedals.
Road Bike Handlebars
Drop handlebars on a road bike have a height and tilt
adjustment.
Handlebars
The position of the handlebars is more important than many
beginner riders realize. The wrong angle can lead to back pain, shoulder strain
or soreness in your wrists. Generally handlebars are sized to the bike and come
in different widths. On racers and touring bikes they are usually the same
width as your shoulders, whereas on mountain bikes they are wider.
Handlebars can also be placed at different heights. On road
bikes handlebars are about an inch lower than the top of the saddle, whereas on
a mountain bike they are even lower to provide a lower center of gravity, while
on hybrids they are usually higher for a more upright position. If you prefer a
more upright position so you can really look around and don’t feel so stretched
out, then set your handlebars higher.
This position does mean you are a little less aerodynamic but if you have drop bars you can still get down low on windy days. If you prefer to be riding in a forward position then you should set your handlebars at the same height as the seat. Whatever you do, take note of the minimum insertion mark and don’t fix the handlebars higher than this or the stem will not grip in the frame properly.
This position does mean you are a little less aerodynamic but if you have drop bars you can still get down low on windy days. If you prefer to be riding in a forward position then you should set your handlebars at the same height as the seat. Whatever you do, take note of the minimum insertion mark and don’t fix the handlebars higher than this or the stem will not grip in the frame properly.
Road Bike Wheel
Road bike wheels are thin and light weight. They are
commonly sized at 29" or 700c.
Wheels
The wheel size is the measurement of the diameter of the
wheel with a mounted tire. Usually the size is written on the tire sidewall,
for example it might read 26 x 2.2”, a typical mountain bike size. This
indicates the wheel is 26” and the tire is 2.2” wide. Wheels are categorized in
size by their primary use for road cycling, off road, touring and BMX. For
example wheels used for stunts and jumps in BMX will be smaller to take the
additional loads placed on them.
Mountain Bike Wheel
Mountain bike wheels are smaller, wider and sturdier than
those on road bikes. They are commonly sized at 26" or 29".
Mountain bikes are generally 26” (559mm) or 29” (622mm) in
size and usually recorded in inches because they originated in the USA. The
larger size is often used in cyclocross and for larger mountain bike riders.
Cruisers and leisure bikes are often the same size. Road bikes, touring bikes
and most hybrids are likely to have 700c (metric) wheels also known as 29”,
which are a lot slimmer (usually 18-25 mm in width). The larger diameter rim
rolls more easily than smaller ones although some triathletes and multi sport
athletes now use 650c wheels which have less rotating mass. Older road bikes
might have 27" wheels. BMX bikes are usually in two sizes; either 500 mm
(20”) or 600 mm (24”).
The size of wheels for children’s bikes is different and
will vary depending on the age of the child. Usually small trainer wheels are
used for younger children and can be raised higher as their confidence and
skills increase. Children aged 3-5 years usually need 300mm (12”) wheels, while
5-7 year olds might require 400mm (16”) and 7-10 year olds 500mm (20“).
Children over 10 years can usually fit bikes with 600mm (24”) or even 700mm
(26”), which are sizes similar to adult bikes.
Bicycle Pedal and Crank
Pedals are connected to cranks, which turn the chain to provide power to the bicycle. Pedals come in standard, clipless and toe clip styles.
Pedals / Cranks
To ensure your riding motion is being transferred to the
bike with maximal efficiency, you should consider clipless pedals or toe clips.
This way you can clip your feet in and every pull or push motion you make will
propel the bike forward better. Generally the cage like toe clips are
considered more cumbersome than clipless pedals, but they do allow you to use
your normal shoes and save you having to purchase cycling shoes. Clipless
pedals come in different varieties for road and mountain biking. The pedals
used for mountain biking are dual sided, making it possible to clip in easily
on rough and changeable terrain.
What Type of Bicycle Should I Buy?
You'll make the most of your bicycling experience if you
choose the right kind of equipment. Your bike should fit your needs, interests
and fitness. Before you make a purchase consider a few factors such as the type
of riding you will do and the kind of bike that will suit that riding.
What types of riding will you do?
There are many different types of riding, and you may find
the cycling you do blends more than one style. You may also discover a style
here you’d like to try that you have never considered. Ultimately the type of
riding you do, will dictate the type of bicycle to purchase.
Recreation / Leisure
Leisure riding refers to the occasional jaunt for fitness
when you head out to enjoy a park, the seaside or new town. For example it
could be a Sunday afternoon ride with the kids, grand kids or friends in the
city, park or bike track. These rides are usually short, infrequent, on flat or
easy terrain and speed is not a factor. They require little in the way of
equipment, clothing or fitness and any kind of bicycle could be including older
styles with no gearing.
Touring
Touring refers to long distance riding. It may incorporate
cyclists on their way to work who have to pedal more than the usual 20-30
minute commute, or those on day trips, over night trips or even week or month
long journeys who need to be self sufficient and carry gear with them. This may
be a type of riding you have never considered and it can really be quite easy.
If you’re camping you might need a bit of gear and side panniers, otherwise all you really need is a credit card to get food and accommodation along the way. You could consider exploring wine regions, visiting remote wilderness areas, joining a charity/endurance ride or even jetting off to far flung realms with a bike. For these longer journeys a touring or expedition bicycle is usually required.
If you’re camping you might need a bit of gear and side panniers, otherwise all you really need is a credit card to get food and accommodation along the way. You could consider exploring wine regions, visiting remote wilderness areas, joining a charity/endurance ride or even jetting off to far flung realms with a bike. For these longer journeys a touring or expedition bicycle is usually required.
Road Riding
This cycling is usually done on superior surfaces such as
pavement or bitumen. It may include commuting to work, getting to and from the
shops, taking the kids to school or getting regular exercise. Or you may even
want to step it up a notch and enter a triathlon, join a charity ride or a bike
club. The great thing about road riding is any kind of bicycle can be used
because the road surface is generally in a reasonable condition.
Off Road Riding
Off road basically incorporates all inferior surfaces. It
can simply be the shortcut along a track or through a garden that takes you off
the tarmac to avoid traffic. Or it can be a little more challenging riding on
railway trails, towpaths and farmland through to serious adventure on rough,
rocky trails. The latter is defined more precisely as mountain biking. You may
need to do off road riding to get to work, the shop or the local school
depending on where you live or what route you plan to take. However most off road cyclists are usually out there to enjoy the wild and backwoods areas or the cycling challenges it offers. Usually a specific off road, mountain bike or hybrid bicycle needs to be used on these surfaces. A cyclist racing at high speed.
If you’re considering entering races or even charity rides
you may need a different kind of bicycle that’s built for speed and
performance. The type of bike will depend largely on the surfaces you are
covering. Generally triathlons require road bikes however multi sport athletes
and extreme triathlons may be done on terrain that requires a mountain bike.
Bikes that are used on velodromes are different again. They have a fixed rear
gear enabling maximum speed and the rider slows by pushing back against their
pedals.
Where will you be riding?
The terrain you cover will influence your purchase of a
bicycle too and should be factored in. This is because you might be cycling on
the road to work but the route there is largely hilly or partly off road, and
therefore could mean a mountain bike or hybrid may suit better than a road
bike.
Hills and Mountains
Generally if your riding area covers really mountainous
terrain you need a lower range of gears to climb them comfortably. Mountain
bikes or touring bikes, even recumbents, are best for climbing hills. Road
bikes are generally built for speed on the flat but can handle hills of a
reasonable gradient.
Streets and Bike Paths
These are usually well paved so a road bike or hybrid will
be the fastest possibility. Alternatively you may wish to get an old cruiser
style to leave at the bus/train station for your commute to/from work that will
be less temptation for thieves, or a fold up bike you can take on that
bus/train.
Country and Dirt Roads
The surface of country roads is far inferior to city
streets. If they are particularly gravely or uneven, a hybrid, mountain or
touring bike with wider tires will suit better as they do damage finer tires
and rims of road style racing bikes. You can put slick tires on a mountain bike
to give you more speed if the roads aren’t overly rough. If you plan to do
touring or rides of length outside cities you will most likely encounter rough
roads.
Off Road Trails
Rutted, rooty, rough tracks require bikes that can absorb
the shock of the bumps and tires that won’t puncture easily. Hybrids can take a
bit of this but for the more serious off road work you will need a mountain
bike with front or possibly dual suspension. If you would like to ride to work
on good suburban streets plus do a bit of off road recreationally you could
consider a hybrid, or simply use a mountain bike and change to slicks for
superior roads.
What's the right bicycle for me?
There are a number of types of bicycles, and each has its
own uses, advantages and characteristics. You may even find a model in the list
below you had not considered.
Road Bikes
These bikes have a fine frame, thin tires, a short wheelbase
and drop or flat handlebars. They are light and designed for speed but not as
strong structurally as a mountain bike. They won’t stand up to any off road
work and are only meant for use on superior surfaces like paved streets. If you
have plans to enter triathlons, charity rides or commute to work over tarmac
these are ideal.
(Road bikes come in various sizes for all sizes of riders)
Touring Bikes
Touring bikes are good for long distances and for carrying
cargo. They have a bigger frame triangle and are structurally stronger than
road bikes. They still have the drop handlebars and more gears than a simple
road bike. The lower gears are particularly useful when you’re trying to move a
load up hills.
Touring bikes use the same frame sizing as road bikes.
Mountain Bikes and BMX Bikes
Mountain bikes are generally top sellers for most bike shops
because they are comfortable for cyclists to sit on, cheaper than road bikes
and have a certain amount of status appeal of the extreme variety – attractive
even if that’s not what you’re planning to use them for. In fact most mountain
bikes are rarely used for what they are designed for. The wide tires and
suspension absorb shock, making for a more stable ride and a bike that can
handle rugged terrain without falling apart. While they are not as fast as road
bikes they do have a wider range of gears suitable for climbing. If you plan to
do more on road riding than off, or a combination, you can put on slick tires
that are better suited to asphalt or bitumen.
Mountain bikes are also very good
as touring bikes although you can’t pack gear around the suspension so it can
limit what or how you carry gear. Do be aware also that if you are not using
the mountain bike intentionally for what it was designed you are really paying
for unnecessary features.
Mountain bikes use different sizing than road bikes, since
they require more clearance over the top bar. Using a mountain
bike frame size chart or mountain
bike size calculator will help you figure out what size mountain bike to
get.
Bicycle motocross (BMX) bikes are not suited for commuting
as the low seat position is uncomfortable over any distance, although children
may find them okay. The lack of gears also makes climbing hills on a BMX a
challenge. These bikes are designed for dirt racing, street riding and ramps.
The BMX
frame size chart and BMX bike
size calculator will help you figure out what size BMX bike will fit you.
Hybrids and Comfort Bicycles
Think of a cross between a road and a mountain bike and you
basically have your hybrid. Hybrids also combine the best features of both
bikes. They make for very good riding on shorter paved rides. They have slimmer
frames than mountain bikes and narrower tires but slightly raised handlebars
for a comfortable upright position. They do perform better on road and are generally
used for leisure or commuting. They are generally a little more comfortable and
stable than road bikes but not as fast and don’t have as high a gear range as a
mountain bike.
Hybrids and comfort bikes use either road bike
sizing or mountain
bike sizing, depending on the manufacturer and style of bike.
Cruisers
These old style bikes are the easy ride of the bike world.
They are commonly used for shopping, going to the beach or a general amble.
They have wide tires and seats and usually just one gear, which means they are
best used on flat terrain. They also have upright handlebars that enable a good
viewing position of the world around you.
Recumbents
The recumbent bike places the rider in a reclined position
which enables them to be more aerodynamic and generally more comfortable as
their weight is distributed across the back and buttocks rather than just the
latter. In fact they are so comfortable they have been successfully used for
biking across countries and continents. Recumbents give you a better view of
the world and handle headwinds very well. But they are difficult to manage at
low speed particularly when traveling uphill, may not be as visible to other
motorists and are generally more expensive than the average bike.
Electric Bicycles / Power-assisted Bikes
These bikes have become more popular of late with people
commuting to work who don’t want to arrive sweaty or out of breath. They are
powered by petrol engines or electric motors and the amount of assistance can
be controlled. They have a more hybrid appearance and are heavier than the
standard bicycle so if the engine is turned off they are harder to ride.
Folding Bicycles
These bikes are fantastic for storing away if you are
traveling. The wheels, handlebars and frame hinge together and fit in a standard
box that airlines accept and you can easily maneuver on to trains, buses and
cars. People that use these bikes love the idea of having a bike they know at
their destination. Some people are skeptical about how effective they are over
long distances, but they have been used successfully for touring.
Tandem Bikes or other Multi-rider Styles
These can be a fun way of getting around and allow families
and couples to travel together. They are particularly good if one rider is
weaker than the other. Tandems are generally fast to ride and good for touring
although you are limited with what gear you can take as generally you can still
carry just four saddlebags (some people tow a trailer for their extra gear).
The tag along bike is another option particularly popular for children of
in-between ages (roughly 4-7 years). These attach to the seat post of an adult
bike like a kind of tandem and can be easily transferred from one bike to
another.
Utility and cargo bikes are the semi trucks of bicycles.
They have an upright seating position with sturdy, elongated frames. The rims
have more spokes for added strength, with wide tires for stability. Heavy duty
racks over the rear tires provide space for all sorts of cargo. These bicycles
are perfect for transporting kids, groceries, boxes, containers, surf boards or
anything else you can safely fit onto the bike. A variety of accessories can be
hooked onto the rear racks, such as child seats, baskets and panniers to secure
cargo.
Other Bicycles
There are a number of other unconventional bike styles
including unicycles, scooters, penny farthing, trikes or even cycle rickshaws.
These types of bikes can really increase your enjoyment of the sport, open up
new challenges and also create plenty of interest for other people.
How often will ride?
The amount of use you get from your bicycle may help you determine
what to spend on it. Consider if you will be biking every day, once a week with
a group or simply the occasional Sunday with friends or family. If you plan to
cycle regularly or the bike is for daily use you may justify spending more
money on it both during the initial purchase and any subsequent maintenance. If
you plan only the occasional ride you may discover you don’t even need to
purchase your own bicycle or could share the costs with someone else. In
holiday areas bikes are often available for rent and well maintained, and the
cost of the occasional rental may be cheaper than the purchase and upkeep
yourself.
If you intend to use the bike for social riding only perhaps you
would be better to split the costs with another person such as a family member.
You should also consider if cycling is just a passing phase or something you
are really serious about. If you’re unsure, consider borrowing a bike first and
see if you enjoy riding and really want to cycle to work every day. You could
also get a cheaper bike until you’re sure it’s an activity you will continue.
Do you have any health considerations?
Bike riding can be as easy as coasting along flat, paved
roads and as challenging as the calf burns of intense ascents or the hazards of
rocky, technical descents. Whatever kind of riding you seek, you should
consider if your health is up to par with what you intend to do. Cycling is
certainly an excellent, low-impact means of getting fit and building up
endurance slowly so you will be able to tackle more extreme rides eventually.
Cycling is particularly good for older people, pregnant women or those with or
recovering from an injury. It can easily be fitted into your week whenever you
have spare time, and getting to work can be part of your exercise regime and
not cost you any more time than it would sitting in traffic.
If you do have a level of fitness and cycling experience,
you should still consider your health when attempting back country routes,
uneven or hilly terrain and long distances. Cycling the pavements at home is
not the same as trying to negotiate twists and turns off road or pedaling for
hours and hours. Sore muscles, blisters, nausea, dizziness and black outs are
just some of the physical reactions you might experience if you are not
prepared. Extremes of weather can also be a health consideration, particularly
heat if you are not able to carry enough water or get more along the way.