Think about where you will ride your bike: will you be trail riding or cruising down neighborhood streets? Choose your bike based on your size and the type of cycling your plan to do.
Off-road cyclists should look for a bike constructed with a sturdy frame and wide tires, while road cyclists need a lightweight bike that delivers a smooth ride and superior agility.
Cyclists looking to bike both on and off-road should consider a hybrid bike that blends features of road and mountain bikes for total versatility. Look for features that add comfort and ease of movement to your ride, like narrow handlebars and wider seat.
Comfort bikes are ideal for leisure cyclists looking for a relaxing ride and ample shock absorption. Serious long-distance riders, meanwhile, might opt for the tenacity and sleek design of a cyclocross bike.
Aluminum is the most common material used in the construction of bicycles and delivers a lightweight feel for an agile ride. This material is an essential for speed or long-distance riders. Steel proves the most durable in a variety of terrains and conditions, a feature that is an asset to mountain cyclists.
Consider the braking system on your bike. Coaster brakes engage with reverse pressure on the pedals. Rim brakes employ a soft rubber brake pad, while disc brakes use a metallic disc as a pad.