When buying a bicycle, you'll find three main types for adults: road bikes, mountain bikes and comfort bikes. Mountain bikes are designed to take on rougher terrain, and comfort bikes are for flat and less varied terrain. Road bikes are designed for riding on pavement. Once you select a bicycle style, you can make comparisons between the different features. Keep your ability level in mind when buying a bicycle. Comfort bikes and entry-level mountain bikes are typically best for beginners, and road bikes usually are for individuals interested in racing and distance riding.
Step 1
Look at the frame sizes available for the bicycles you are considering. In order to determine the right frame size for you, start by measuring your inseam. For road bikes and comfort bikes, multiply your inseam by 0.65 to find the recommended size. Multiply your inseam by 0.59 when selecting a mountain bike.
Step 2
Check the type of frame used in the construction of the bicycle. Steel is the heaviest type of metal used in construction,and it is appropriate for comfort bikes. Aluminum alloy is lighter and preferred in road bikes and mountain bikes. Bicycles made from titanium and carbon fiber are light and durable, but typically cost much more than aluminum and steel bicycles.
Step 3
Compare suspension systems in the bicycle. Front suspensions are ideal for beginners and intermediate riders who will ride both on bike paths and off road, according to Dick's Sporting Goods. Full-suspension bikes are appropriate for serious off-roading.
Step 4
Choose the wheel size. The wheel size you decide on affects the type of ride you will experience. Smaller wheels give you more control and take less effort to move, but you can go faster with larger wheels. Road bikes usually come with standard 29-inch wheels, while mountain bikes usually have 26-inch wheels. Since comfort bikes are only intended for casual use, there is not a sizing standard, according to Overstock.
Step 5
Find out the gears available on the bicycle. The gears control the resistance available during your bike ride. Lower gears are for uphill and difficult terrain, while higher gears can be used for coasting. The number of gears you need depends on the difficulty of the terrain in which you will be riding. Most bikes have anywhere from eight to 28 gears.
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