Buying a Bicycle

There are several points to consider before buying a bicycle. Two of the most important are (1) the type of cycling you want to do, and (2) the amount of money you can afford to spend. If your goal is simply to take leisurely rides around your neighborhood, you can probably find a suitable bike for a modest amount of money. In fact, a used bike in good condition may be just what you're looking for. On the other hand, if you are serious about long distance or competitive cycling, a bicycle of that caliber will cost quite a bit more.

If you are not yet sure of your goals, consider buying a modestly priced all-purpose bicycle to get started. Take it on short rides, long rides, and, if you can find them, try some smooth off-road trails. See which you most enjoy, then purchase a good bike especially suited to that purpose. The advantage of this approach is that you don't spend a great deal of money for, say, a touring bike, only to discover that what you really enjoy is off-roading.

One style of bike that is especially popular with young riders is the BMX. This small, sturdy bike gets its name from cross-country motorcycle racing. Motorcycle racing that takes place on a purpose-built track is called "motocross," abbreviated "MX." Enthusiastic young bicyclists first tried to imitate their motorcycle-riding heroes by putting their street bikes through the same leaps, spins, and jumps. Needless to say, the street bikes fell apart. Bicycle manufacturers quickly saw the need for small, lightweight -- but very sturdy -- bikes that could withstand the stress of imitation motocross stunts. Hence, the BMX evolved.

The mountain bike is much more than a "big brother" of the BMX. Although both are well-suited to off-road cycling, the mountain bike gives the rider a choice of gears, and the larger frame, wheel base, and tires give the mountain bike exceptional versatility.

The simplest of all bikes to operate is the cruiser. With its wide seat and upright handlebars, you really do just sit back and cruise. It is the coaster brake application, however, that makes the cruiser the ultimate easy rider. Push backward on the pedals to stop, push forward on them to go, and sit back and enjoy the ride. If your riding is confined to flat terrain and you don't have to go very far at a stretch, the inexpensive, uncomplicated cruiser may be the bike for you. The heavy frame can take a fair amount of bumps and bangs without noticeable damage, and the cruiser adapts very well to accessories such as baskets, book racks, and saddle bags. As long as you have a clean, dry place to store your bike, a general cleaning and a semi-annual oiling are about all the maintenance a cruiser requires.

The three-speed is much lighter weight than the cruiser, making it easier to pedal and to steer. Most three-speeds also have narrower tires than a heavy-framed cruiser, and all multi-speed bikes have hand brakes to both wheels. If you plan to ride more than five miles at a stretch and/or if you ride in hilly country, you'll be more comfortable on a multi-speed bike. Most three-speed bikes have rather wide seats and upright handlebars, similar to those on a cruiser.

For many cycling enthusiasts, the ultimate machine is the sleek-as-a-cat 10-speed road racer. If you plan to do any racing, long-distance touring, or major hill climbing, you'll need a 10-speed. The large wheels fitted with hard, narrow tires eat up the ground as no other machine can. The turned-down handlebars position you in a more horizontal frame, giving you better wind resistance, allowing you the most efficient means of traveling farther and faster.

Whichever bike you choose, give it good care and it will reward you with years of enjoyment.

The United States Olympic Committee
A Basic Guide to Cycling
Paperback $7.95
© 1997, Griffin Publishing; ISBN: 1882180518
128 pages

For information on purchasing the book from bookstores or here online, please go to the Web page for A Basic Guide to Cycling (Griffin Publishing).