What To Look For
The first thing to consider is what you plan on using the bike for. There are several different types of bikes that are used for different purposes. If you're looking to do heavy-duty working out on your bike and need plenty of speed, then consider a road bike. If you want something you can do tricks with or take out on the trails, then a mountain bike may be your choice. If you're looking for something less intense in terms of the athleticism needed, then consider a hybrid, comfort or lifestyle bike. Once you've selected a type, you'll want to find a bike that is the right height for you.
Common Pitfalls
Many people purchase ultra-budget brand bikes such as Mongoose or Schwinn, which are available from big-box stores. The appeal of these bikes is they are usually very inexpensive; however, they are inexpensive because they are constructed with less quality than the more expensive bikes, and they often weigh more. They also don't usually have more than one size, which will make riding these bikes difficult for most people. These bikes will also not usually be assembled properly because they will not be assembled by an expert like bikes would be in a bike shop.
Where To Buy
Consumer Reports recommends purchasing a bike from a store that exclusively deals with bikes. There are not very many national bike retailers. Find a local bike store if there is one in your area. These retailers will often give you the most individualized attention as you purchase a bike, and will have more knowledge than a large chain would. They may even be willing to bargain on prices. If there isn't a local shop near you, try an outdoor store like REI, which offers competitive prices on several types of bikes and accessories.
Cost
Bikes vary widely in price from just about $100 to several thousand dollars. Some of the best deals for your buck, however, will be found around the $300 to $500 mark. The Novara Portal is a mountain bike available for about $400, and has a high customer rating on REI's website. If you're looking for an urban road bike, the Hamilton 29er by Marin runs about $450 and features rave customer reviews.
Accessories
There are some bike accessories that are absolute must-haves, such as a high-quality helmet, pumps for your tires, a patch kit, and a seat bag to keep your travel pump and patch kit in. For the most comfortable riding experience, consider getting riding apparel such as shorts, gloves and specialized riding shoes.
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