Cycling is a hugely popular leisure activity. There are now around 66 million cyclists in the US, and the sport has seen a big increase in the last five years. This could be due to increased publicity about the benefits of cycling as a healthy sport, but it could be due to more airtime dedicated to high-profile cycling events such as the Tour de France. Either way, if you are contemplating taking up cycling, you will need a bicycle.
In this post, we are going to look at the different types of bicycles available for leisure riders and help you make the right decision.
Mountain Bike
Mountain bikes are the workhorses of the cycling world. If your passion is off-road cycling, a mountain bike will be your preferred choice. Mountain bikes have thick, knobbly tires, front and/or rear wheel suspension, and a tough steel frame. They can handle rough trails and obstacles. They are also more comfortable than lighter bikes with no suspension. For general all-purpose cycling on different terrain, a mountain bike is your best bet.
Road Bike
Road bikes are for speed freaks. Road bikes are available at different price points, and you should check out the bike brands before you buy, but in general, a road bike is lighter and faster. These bikes are typically made from aluminum or carbon-fiber. They have skinny tires built for low wind resistance and narrow saddles designed to punish on long rides. If you want to set a new land-speed world record, look for a high-quality road bike and invest in padded cycling shorts.
Hybrid Bike
Hybrid bikes are a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike. They are not as heavy as a mountain bike, but more robust than a true road bike. Hybrids are popular for long-distance bike rides and commuting. They are comfortable to ride and capable of carrying bike luggage. This should be your bike of choice if you anticipate doing a few longer rides on a reasonably smooth terrain.
Folding Bikes
Not got much room at home? If so, a folding bike could come in very handy. As the name suggests, a folding bike collapses for storage, so you can shove it in a cupboard or take it with you on buses, trains or trams. They are perfect for commuting.
BMX
Intrepid kids, teenagers, and adults will want a BMX for practicing their stunt riding and tricks in the local skate park. BMXs are a classic fun bicycle.
Electric Bikes
Electric bicycles are just like an ordinary hybrid bike, but they come fitted with a small battery-powered engine to give you a much-needed boost up hills and inclines. Electric bikes are ideal for older people who don’t have much leg power or lack the strength to make it up hills. With one of these bikes, you will leave your fellow cyclists for dead on a steep hill.
Other bicycles worth checking out include indoor bicycles for fitness training and fixies for those who enjoy high-octane rides. Before choosing your favorite bike, check this bike size chart to choose the correct one.