Many riders out there are stuck pedaling a bike that doesn’t quite suit them. Whether it’s the offer , the model, or the design, they found it irresistible and concluded it’s worth the chase. Sadly, it wasn’t. That once-enticing, perfect-looking bike turns out just the opposite– the wrong size or not suitable altogether.
If you’re a first-time buyer, it’s likely you have not encountered this dilemma yet. To help you choose right, we have put together a few common mistakes to avoid when buying a bike. In this post, you’ll find:
- An easy guide to help you make the best bike choice if you’re buying for the first time.
- The ideal bike option that suits your particular need.
- Common pitfalls to avoid when buying a bike in 2024.
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The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Bike in 2024
“Don’t buy upgrades, ride up grades’, says Legend Eddy Merckx in highlighting the need to focus on functionality when shopping for a new bike. Before you hit the market, it’s safe to consider the following factors and our ultimate guide to buying a bike:
Consider Your Needs
It’s always important to start off your bike hustle with some major questions. Why do you need a bike? Are you a pro or a starter? Where are you riding to? What are you using your bike for? And so on. This will help streamline your options and you’ll know what exactly your needs are.
Set a Budget
The concept of budgeting is not new to most people. However, with buying a bike, you’d need to set a budget like you’re gambling. That’s because becoming a bike owner comes with different untold financial risks like future repair costs. In some cases, you also deal with additional spending on a range of gears and other accessories. Also in casinos, where sometimes you have to take additional risks by increasing your bet.
A bicycle nowadays costs quite a lot of money, and when it comes to repairs, buying accessories and other parts, then you start to think about where to make money. But money does not always have to be earned by hard work, which proves the information on the site https://casinocanada.com/casinos/captain-cooks/ . There are super reviews of online games that say that getting money online playing is a reality of our time. So if you have become the owner of a bicycle, at least sometimes spin not only the wheels, but also fortune free spins.
Think Bike Size
Bikes differ in sizes, and finding the perfect fit is central to having a hitch-free ride. Largely, the right size depends on the standover height and the cockpit length. Neither a pint-sized bike nor an excessively large one is great for any type of cycling. So, consider size.
Decide on Extra Parts and Accessories
The next step after you find the right bike is to consider extra parts. Many bikes are sold with just the essentials, so it’s up to you to decide which extra part or accessory you may need.
To a large extent, this depends on whether it’s a commuter bike, hybrid bike, folding bike, electric bike, or any other type of bike. Basic bike extras include locks, lights, pumps, water bottle cages, pedals, saddles or cycle computers.
What Type of Bike Should I Get?
Research shows that there are approximately 7,000 different bike shops in the U.S. alone. However, the type of bike you should get depends largely on why you are getting one. The question is: for which reasons do you need a bike? And as Steve Jobs puts it, “Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.”
The following are some bike types you might want to consider:
Road Bikes
From the name, you can already tell that road bikes are designed specifically for use on paved surfaces. They come with slim bike tyres and lightweight frames that help for maximum speed. They’ve also got dropped handlebars for a productive and aerodynamic cycling position.
If you’re road cycling a long distance with friends or family, this is your best bet. However, it may not be great if you’re pedaling along potholes or looking to haul a heavy load.
Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes come with rugged tread mountain bike tyres that make them perfect for off-road riding. With a more expensive option comes suspension on both ends for improved control. Plus, gear system helps you navigate steep terrains while mountain biking.
Hybrid/Fitness Bikes
Hybrid bikes combine the speed feature of a road bike with a mountain bike’s comfort. If you’re big on smooth rides, particularly on great surfaces, but prefer to pedal sitting upright, then this might be your best pick.
Specialty Bikes
Specialty bikes simply work for certain kinds of terrains and riding. They include gravel bikes for riding on dirt trails, touring bikes for long-distance cycling, and folding bikes for easy storage. There are also electric mountain bikes that help with easy pedaling and hybrid bikes for upright riding position.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a bicycle
Buying a bike can be both an exciting and overwhelming adventure. According to research, about 40% of consumers experience decision fatigue due to multiple choices, while 20% make regrettable purchases. There are several options, so you might need expert advice to really know what suits you. The following are common pitfalls you should avoid when buying a bicycle:
Choosing a Bike Size that Doesn’t Work
Not all bike sizes are the same, so choosing a size that doesn’t work for you can result in serious damage. When buying, pay close attention to the frame size. You can choose based on height, but that’s mostly not very reliable. Also take a look at the bike size chart and inseam length to select the right frame size.
Choosing a Bike Type that Doesn’t Serve Your Purpose
The type of bike you choose must depend largely on terrain and your riding style. Consider suitability and the bike category to know whether it suits your purpose. If you’re up for off-road cycling, for instance, there’s a range of bikes made specifically for that purpose.
Too Pricey or Too Cheap
For most cyclists, it is quite tempting to opt for super cheap bikes. However, they’re not always reliable. And falling to the other extreme of too expensive might not be any better for enthusiasts.
So what’s the way forward? Stay within the borders of a reasonable price range. This could be anything from $300 to $2000.
Choosing Based on Appearance
This is what you may call love at first sight or ‘bike infatuation’. Avoid choosing based on looks alone. It’s like buying a dress simply because it glitters. Yes, looks matter, but components matter more. Consider gear, brake, bike frame, drop bars, front and rear suspension. Also think wheel size, front and rear shocks, saddle height, bike fitting, and other bike accessories.
Ad-Based Purchase
A great ad with exciting content can make just anyone buy anything (even what they don’t need). Avoid going for bikes that only look good in TV ads. Research thoroughly and make sure you have the right details.
Conclusion
If there’s anything to keep in mind when visiting a local bike shop as a first timer, it is that size and purpose matter more than looks. To avoid common errors, you should make informed, well-researched decisions that are devoid of impulse or emotional elements.
