Aspects To Investigate When Buying Road Bikes

Anything worth over a week's pay is also worth taking time to consider the options and that includes buying road bikes. This article is then not about, mountain, competitive, commuter or city, mini, dirt, BMX or even unicycles. But, there's cross-over.

Start with basics. Within the same price range, different brands will have distinctly similar framing, wheels and drive trains. The riders specialty shops will have drive trains and gear options from brands that have proven their worth for decades as well has some with new tech ideas. Watch for their names stamped in the metal. Good components are usually loaded in styles in the mid to high price range.

Your wheels take you to your destination and your brakes stop you at arrival. Brakes are a critical feature, put money where it'll save your life. Poor breaks have many consequences, talk over the best features for your riding, and braking, plans at the bike shop. Your local weather, like sea air, blowing sand or frequent wet days may affect your decision. You'll be surprised at the number of options.

The defining features of a highway bike are speed and performance, and the required comfort to go the distance. The rider hunches over and holds dropped down handle bars to create a streamlined position. But, if there have been previous back or neck injuries then traveling with body bent over and extended will not be comfortable. If the riding exacerbates old problems, the bike does not fit the biker.

Though not a mechanical part of the bike the saddle affects the trip tremendously. Because male and female and different sizes of bodies will align with the seat differently, comfort is sometimes not possible. The male anatomy needs less abrasion in different areas than the females. One size does not fit all.

To check, sit on the saddle first in the forward riding position. Be acutely aware of where seat meets body. Rock forward and back, and side to side, even bounce, imitating the riding movements. Remember that the slightest irritation in the shop won't be just slight after four or more hours on the road. If everything else about your purchase suits your needs except the seat, buy another before you leave. Cycling is meant to be pleasurable.

The theme of "buy local" is an excellent plan and a growing trend. However, some small cities have neither the expertise nor many options. Get more expertise elsewhere. On-line buying, new or used, should be approached with buyer caution. For second-hand check the ads in the spring.

The pro shops are usually staffed by cyclists so ask them about their favorite models, and why. Chat with your local biking peers. They maybe upgrading and know the local roads. Many locales have cycling clubs for group trips. These people have less financial bias and will offer a yeah or nay on brands or components.

Before you head out for the big ride the most important item to own is a properly fitting helmet. These break down, after 2 years replace them. The shop that wants your repeat business should be encouraging you to get a helmet. Many highway cycling accidents are not car related. The unfortunate incidents are from rider error or terrain difficulties. When buying road bikes, buy a helmet too.