There is something about buying a new bike that makes you feel like a kid again. On a shiny brand new bike, the wind feels a little wilder in your hair and you feel like your five years old. There’s no question that buying a new bike is a rush. The question is, what kind of bike to buy?
Bicycles come in styles and prices to suit every need and virtually every budget. Choosing from the many types of bikes on the market is a personal decision that’s basically determined by the type of riding you want to do.
If you are a serious off-road cyclist, you’ll need a sturdy mountain bike. Distance riders will want a lightweight model that offers speed and comfort. Cross-country travelers should opt for touring bikes. Even companion bikes have their place with urban riders needing to share the ride with children or spouses.
The choice of types of bikes is yours and yours alone. Specialized bikes are available to suit those with very particular needs. If you have a bumpy commute, for example, you’ll probably want a mountain bike. Although usually heavy with a higher rolling resistance, mountain bikes run smoothly along single tracks, over rocks and along steep mountain trails.
If you shop at the market, run an urban delivery service or just have a heavy load to bear, you should consider choosing a touring bike. These are generally sturdy, comfortable and stable. An added feature of the touring bike is the many forks and eyelets that can be used to attach racks and cranks as storage for all of your non-cycling gear.
Whatever kind of riding you do, never overlook the importance of a really comfortable seat. Some types of bikes feature ultra-comfortable recumbent seats. Others have more business-like economy seats. The former will provide you with more comfort while riding, and may even protect you from saddle sores. The latter will make your bike look more streamlined and professional, but can be a pain.
Another consideration is to buy a sports bike with a road racing frame and provision for triple cranks. If you are heavy-set or suffer from knee problems, cranks can be very beneficial in preventing pressure from falling on the knees when you are cycling on a stiff slope.
Buying a tandem bike is another possibility, particularly if you tend to ride with a companion. They are made for two riders and are more expensive than other bikes. There are a number of pros, and cons, that should be carefully considered before making the investment in tandem. If you do decide to purchase a bicycle built for two, make sure you get a model that has 700c wheels.
Hybrid bikes are great choices for those traveling short distances, going along well-laid cycle paths, or who just enjoy a relaxing cruise. Hybrids feature upright seats and handlebars, so they offer optimal comfort and really are a pleasure to ride.
Finally, if you want to really stand out, invest in a groovy cruiser bike. These can be fitted with a number of fancy accessories and components, and make for a relaxing ride if you tend to take short journeys. As the name suggests, these bikes are built for ‘cruising’.
Buying a new bike is a personal decision that needs some careful thought. When you take the time to choose the right type of bike for your needs, you’ll soon have a new set of wheels that will make you feel carefree and unstoppable. You’ll feel just like a kid again.
About the Author:
Barbara Moore contributes to several web magazines, on sports and recreation and hobbies and recreation themes.
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It is always better if you manage to get an authentic dirt bike in exchange of a small amount; in that case, cheap dirt bikes would be a good option. A 4000cc dirt bike can cost you almost $8000. So, if you are willing to enjoy the irresistible excitement in a small cost, then used bikes would be suitable for you.
Where to buy a cheap dirt bike
If you are vigilant enough to choose the right model for yourself, you can get several options. Initially, you have to decide which dirt bike model you will purchase. You must also be very particular about your budget. In this case, you must approach the dirt bike dealers, since they are much cheaper than the established dealers. You can get the necessary information about dirt bikes from the classified pages of the local newspaper and the Internet as well.
There is another way out to purchase dirt bikes; that is through auctions. There are quite a number of websites, which arrange for such online auctions. Through these sites you will be able to know about the exact locality where the auction will take place, and would not have to loiter around much.
In order to use a second hand bike, you need to have a substantial knowledge about different parts. The dealer would show you something very shiny and well kept from outside. But that does not mean that the bike itself would be good as it looks. If you do not know enough about the dirt bike parts, take a friend with you who can judge the condition of it.
The private sellers too can be a good option for buying a second hand dirt bike. But before buying, make sure that it is not a stolen bike. If the bike looks a bit overused, and you find the numbers missing or altered, then it could surely be a stolen bike. You have to be very cautious about this matter, because, there are plenty of examples of such thefts.
Before buying, you must inspect the bike closely, and ask some relevant questions regarding its previous owners, date of manufacture and other subtle details. You must also ask the seller if the bike has ever been raced or not. The seller would tell whatever you like to hear and you must be very watchful in these matters.
Make sure that the clutch and the gearbox are all right and no jarring sound is coming out of the bike. Finally, if you are convinced and ready to purchase it, you must take the bike for a mock ride to test its potential.
In order to take the bike for a mock ride you have to follow these rules:
1. With the help of the rear wheel and the swing-arm, move the bike forward to check the swing-arm bearings.
2. Repeat the process with the front wheel and move the bike backwards and forwards.
3. Pay attention to the top ends and the timing chain and check if there is any bizarre noise coming out of it.
4. Kick the bike once to feel the compression.
5. Examine the kick-starter seal, and also check if oil leaks from anywhere.
6. Have a feel of the brake disks too.
7. Bend the bike side wards and have a good look underneath.
All these conditions need to be checked to be sure, you have got an ?A? grade bike.
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Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert and read more about bicycles at => http://www.bicycles-are-us.com/Dirt-Bikes.html |
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