Bicycle Buying Guide
from Overstock.comBikes are as varied as the terrain where people ride them. And choosing the right cycling gear can be a daunting task. Our bicycle buying guide will help you learn some basic things you should know while shopping in the cycling department.
There are three main types of bikes for adults: road bikes, mountain bikes, and comfort bikes. No matter what kind of bike you are looking at, one thing you need to pay attention to is the quality of its components (breaks, gear shifters, etc.), as those are the things that will most affect the bike's durability and longevity. If a bike's components are listed as a selling point (with brand name, model, etc.) they are probably pretty good. Other essential qualities to note are frame size and construction.
Mountain bikes
Wider tires, suspension and straight handlebars are the three main things that make a mountain bike a mountain bike. The gearing of a mountain bike is also designed to tackle the constant changes in slope and terrain.
Quality mountain bikes will have a light frame, usually made of aluminum. Low-end mountain bikes will normally have a heavier steel frame. Most mountain bikes have 26-inch wheels. Some have 29-inchers, though mountain bikers debate the benefits of the larger wheel.
A quality front suspension bike, called a hard-tail, is enough for most moderate mountain bikers. A front suspension fork will soften the jarring in your arms and shoulders. A full suspension bike (front and rear) will make for an even smoother downhill ride, but can make climbing more difficult.
Sizing
One important measurement of a bicycle is its stand-over height. This is the measurement from the ground to the top tube. You can know what size of mountain bike to look for by measuring your inseam (from crotch to floor) and comparing it to the listed stand-over height. Make sure you will have 3 to 5 inches of clearance between your crotch and the top tube when standing over the bike.
Often, bike makers don't list the stand-over height but do list the frame size. A bike's frame is measured from the center of the cranks to the top tube (basically the length of the seat tube). You can find your recommended frame size for a mountain bike by multiplying your inseam measurement by .59. For example, somebody with a 32-inch inseam (32 x .59 = 18.88) would probably want a bike with an 18- or 19-inch frame, depending on the available sizing options.
Road bikes
Road bikes have lower handlebars, thinner tires and lighter wheels for longer rides on pavement. They are also geared for easy climbs and descents. Like mountain bikes, most good road bikes will have aluminum frames. For those interested in serious cycling and racing, frames made from more uncommon materials provide lighter, more expensive alternatives. The regular wheel size for a road bike is 700 centimeters (29 inches).
Sizing
Road bikes are normally measured in centimeters instead of inches, so you will need to convert your inseam to centimeters by multiplying the inches by 2.54. You will probably want 5 to 9 centimeters of clearance between your crotch and the top tube on a road bike (see the stand-over height explanation under mountain bike sizing). If the road bike you are looking at doesn't have the stand-over height listed, multiply your inseam by .65 to get your recommended frame size.
Comfort bikes
Comfort bikes, also known as cruisers, are made for relaxing. And since riding up hills isn't very relaxing, cruisers often have few gears or are single speed for traveling flat roads and beaches. They are designed for the rider to be in a more comfortable position, with higher handlebars and a wider saddle.
Sizing
What if I need to ride my mountain bike on the road ?
A simple change of tires on your mountain bike will adapt it for traveling on the pavement. Wider tires with a less aggressive tread for pavement are available for most mountain bike wheel sizes.
What can I wear to prevent chafing?
Bicycle clothing is made of fabric that is breathable and designed to be unobtrusive. Form-fitting bike shorts in particular are designed to prevent chafing, and a cycling jersey will help protect your underarms. If you don't feel comfortable showing off your curves in bike shorts, just wear some looser fitting shorts over the top. Overstock.com has a wide selection of athletic apparel that will help you feel comfortable.
Where can I put my bike when I'm not riding it?
Bike stands come in all sorts and sizes. You can find something at Overstock.com that will fit your storage requirements, whether it needs to be in the garage, in the apartment, or outside. You can even get bike hooks that attach to the wall and help conserve floor space. One of our solid steel bike locks will keep your bicycle secure if you have to store it outside.
Everybody rides a bike for different purposes -- purposes that require different accessories. Here are some ideas of equipment combinations that will help you create just the right ride for your lifestyle.
Commuter
Basic road bikes or mountain bikes with road tires will help a businessman save money and stay fit. You can be safe and prepared with a bicycle accessory kit that includes a seat-mounted taillight for helping you stay visible to motorists. Also, don't ride without a bike helmet.
Family bike rides
Overstock.com has affordable bikes for adults and teenagers, along with many children's bicycles. We also have lots of different types of bike racks for your car or SUV. Some fit into a trailer hitch socket, while others mount to the trunk or roof. They will hold multiple kids' bikes and larger bikes for those family trips.
Cross-country cycling
A good road bike makes all the difference on a cross-country cycling trip. Overstock.com has a good selection of light, high-quality road bikes with durable components. We also have lots of hands-free hydration packs so you can concentrate on the road ahead instead of fumbling for a water bottle.
Now you can hit the trail, the road or the beach on your new bicycle. It will keep you moving for years to come. And you can have fun knowing you got a great deal on your bike at Overstock.com