Bicycles Buyers Guide
Buying a bicycle can be a fun and interesting process. There is a fantastic choice of bicycles on the market, and choosing one should come down to a combination of what you are planning to do with the bicycle and your budget. Here are some of the more common types of bicycle and what users do with them:
Racing Bikes
Racing bikes are designed for racing. This means they are designed to be very quick. Racing bikes are lightweight, which means less wind friction. With lightweight wheels and small drop handle bars these bikes are designed for high speed on good quality roads. Racing bikes are very specific bikes. They are not designed for poorer quality roads or for heavy terrain. They are also puncture prone, as the tires are lightweight and have less protection. All in all a racing bike is a specific type of bike for a specific use. Racing bikes can start from as little as £200 but can go to over £1000 for an outstanding professional level model
Hybrid Bikes
Hybrid bikes are bikes that are designed for road use but also for lighter off road use too, hence the name hybrid. Typically heavier and more robust than a racing bikes but lighter than a mountain bike, the hybrid bike is perfect for the average user that wants to cycle in comfort and have a little bit of everything on their bike. A typical hybrid is lightweight but has gearing similar to that of a mountain bike. A hybrid bike can start from £150 or even less if you shop around and go up to £400 or more. Obviously more prestigious brands and higher specification will drive prices up.
Mountain Bikes
Mountain biking is a fun hobby pursued by many people. At its most basic level it can involve riding along simple trails and terrain. More challenging routes can be hills or more dramatic woodland and forest trails. With this in mind it is important that a mountain bike is strong and robust with tyres that do not puncture easily. Due to the large range of terrain that will be cycled upon, it normally makes sense to have a greater range of gears on a mountain bike. More expensive models often include full suspension which give much increased comfort on heavier routes. Mountain bikes typically cost from as little as £200, though they can cost £1000 or even more for a great bikes designed for heavy duty use.
BMX Bikes
BMX racing is generally divided into 2 types of racing, BMX freestyle and BMX Racing. Both of these require slightly different setups, though use generally the same type of BMX bicycle. BMX bikes are noted for being slightly smaller than other bikes, typically supplied with 20 Inch or 50cm wheels. A typical BMX bike costs between £100 and £400, though it is not uncommon to pay more for a competition standard bike.
Shopping for Bicycles
Shopping for bicycles online is a rewarding process. Many retailers offer discounts as this is becoming a competitive market place. Please visit our bicycles category section to see the latest discounts on bicycles, bicycle accessories and more.