Cycling For Fitness: Tips To Consider When Purchasing The Right Bicycle For Your Fitness Goals

Cycling around town in OxfordOver the past few years, cycling as a hobby and primary means of exercise has become increasingly popular around the world. In fact, it has replaced other sports and running activities as the go-to form of active work out. Because of this, even celebrities such as Jesse Eisenberg (actor, humorist) have included it in his fitness regimen.

Putting the said factor into consideration, getting a bike and hitting the road is the way to go if you want to boost your health and fitness level. On the other hand, before purchasing a bicycle that will complement your fitness goals it would be best to turn to a bikes buying guide that contains straightforward tips and pointers that are necessary if you want to obtain something that is worth your time, money and effort. Here is a short, simple, no fuss guide highlighting the main elements to consider when purchasing a bicycle.

Cycling is Safe

In the United States and the United Kingdom, cycling is somewhat put in a bad light because of the accidents and other untoward incidents that are associated with it.


It should be noted, though, that cycling is as safe as any other sport or fitness activity, especially with the proliferation of gadgets that are designed to improve road safety. On the other, you, the rider should also do your homework and take a quick look at your potential bike’s pedals, breaks, seat, and other components so as to make sure that your welfare will not be compromised.

Also, make sure to purchase a helmet that will perfectly fit your head and has passed your country’s consumer product safety council. In addition, make sure to wear reflective clothing when on the road, especially when riding during the late afternoon or nighttime.

Lastly, make sure to practice caution when hitting the road because all the safety equipment and gears would be worthless if you’re reckless on the road.

Decide Your Budget

It is recommended that you decide on a concrete budget for your new bicycle before taking the plunge and visiting a bike store. Bear in mind that it is important to have a figure in mind as you browse the different options is particularly handy, because it is surprising just how varied and escalating the cost of bicycles can be.

Certain brands can be much more expensive, and the amount of accessories you will need to purchase to accompany your bike such as a helmet, specialized clothing and fitness monitoring gear can all begin to add up without you realizing.

What Kind Of Bike Do You Need?


Mountain BikingInstead of going for a road bike or a mountain bike, it would be best if you’ll set your sights on a hybrid bike.

A hybrid bike has the best of both worlds: the speed and lightweight feel of a road bike and the durability and stability of a mountain bike. With this you can easily cruise to bumpy roads or smooth bike paths without any hassle and without compromising comfort as well as convenience.

Also, because of its flat handlebar (like the one often found on mountain bikes), braking and shifting is a lot hassle-free in hybrid bikes.

In addition to the above-mentioned features, a hybrid bike encourages ergonomic body posture, which makes it ideal for those who experience back, neck, or shoulder pain when cycling long distances.

What Kind Of Frame Do You Want?

Trek District's Belt drive singlespeed. Photo from Trek World 2008 by Mark Stevenson.
Trek District’s Belt drive singlespeed. Photo from Trek World 2008 by Mark Stevenson.

There are four different materials that are most commonly used to create a bicycle frame; there are carbon fiber, steel, aluminium and steel. The cost of your bike will be mostly dependent on the frame material you choose, with aluminium and steel costing up to $450 (£300) and carbon tipping the scales at around $1500 (£1000).

Arguably the best option would be a carbon fiber frame because it’s lighter as well as stronger than its aluminum and steel counterparts. This can therefore boost performance whether on the road or track.


Furthermore, customized carbon fiber frames can be specifically designed together with stronger tubes that can be go on a vertical or lateral direction to perfectly complement the rider’s needs and demands.

Summary

If you purchase the right bike, you don’t only improve your health and well-being, you also get to achieve a mode of transportation that is environment-friendly and way cheaper than running a car. So exert some time and effort before making a purchase. Remember, this is an investment that you won’t regret.

If you put effort and time into researching and purchasing a cycle, you will find it easier to achieve your fitness goals. Making an investment in the right bicycle is an investment for your health and welfare as well. So, make sure to set aside ample amount of time and effort to do your research and comparison before making a purchase. This is the best thing that you can do as a consumer who’s looking for the right bike.

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