How to choose a bike for fitness purposes? - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

Crystal B · 01-06-2008, 07:02 PM

I want to purchase a bike I can ride to the store, around the neighborhood, to the park's trails, the dirt trail near our house, etc. I want to start riding to get in shape. I live near the library, parks, friends houses, etc, and would like to start riding instead of driving. I dont know WHAT to look for in a bike, or how much Im looking to spend. Any features I should look for? Brands you recommend? Thanks!

fleutz · 01-06-2008, 07:03 PM

Anything but crap you find you find at Wal-Mart. First go to a bike shop and talk to the owner. All bikes are different and have different uses such as a Mountain Bike is not meant to be ridden on the road, but a road bike is not a mountain bike and never will be. All bikes are made of components such as Sram, Shimano, Suntour, or Compy. You can peel the paint off every frame and all you get is a metal frame with components. That's why go to bike shop and be measured(Wear your bike shorts) for correct fitting because all bikes are different.

M R · 01-06-2008, 07:03 PM

If your dirt trails are fairly smooth it looks like you would be prime for a hybrid. There are several types some more like road (racing type) bikes others closer to mountain bikes. Still others close to a cruiser type. (like old fashioned single speed bikes) Some have an upright riding position, and still others require you to lean forward and down more.

If you want to ride dirt roads and trails get one that more like a mountain bike. It will have a little sturdier frame, fatter tires -far better on dirt and gravel. Most are muti-speed and I would recommend this. The tires should have some tread to give you traction in soft dirt and gravel but not too much as to make pavement riding rough.

It would do you well to visit a few bike shops to see all these different variations to get a feel of what is available. Ask questions see what the shops have to say. Explain what you want from the bike, this is a great way to zero in on what you really need.

I really can't say I prefer a brand as there really are many good bikes from large and small companies alike. This is how I would look for one.