Bicycling can help tone up your quad, calf and buttocks muscles. Cycling can also strengthen your tendons and provide a cardiovascular workout. If you're seeking basic transportation or a ride on flat terrain, a push bike might suit you. If you prefer to cycle on rough, hilly terrain, a mountain bike might better suit your needs.
Push Bike
No single definition of a push bike exists. In the United States, push bikes refer to gliders, coasters, balance bikes, running bikes and like-a-bikes -- all terms for bikes without pedals. A U.S.-style push bike includes a seat, but you get it going by hanging onto the handlebars and pushing it with your feet until you reach a desired speed. In Britain, push bikes frequently refer to any no-frills bike, usually a single-speed road bike. The term push bike also refers, perhaps unfairly, to a cheaply made bicycle.
Purpose
If you plan to ride for pleasure or simple exercise, a push bike can provide more benefits. You can enjoy the scenery without concentrating on shifting gears. If you ride in hilly terrain, the multiple gears and durability afforded by a mountain bike may better suit you. A push bike with multiple speeds makes sense if you want a fast ride. You could also choose a hybrid "city" bike, tough enough to withstand some curb-hopping and treks on park trails. If you ride on flat terrain, multiple gears might not serve any purpose.
Frame and Handlebars Differences
On a mountain bike, the frame forces you to maintain a mostly upright position. On some push bikes, especially those designed for speedier rides, you may ride in a hunched-over position. The handlebars on a mountain bike are wider to give you greater control. On some push bikes, the handlebars are bent over. This design offers greater aerodynamics to increase your speed. When you ride with your back nearly parallel to the ground, you body provide as much resistance against the wind. Mountain bikes include a heavier frame, more extensive suspension system and wider tires than push bikes. A high quality road bike includes a lighter, more flexible frame.
Additional Differences
A mountain bike tire includes lots of rubber spikes to increase the surface area of the tires and afford you better traction. This helps you maintain control of your bike as you race down steep hills. A tire on a push bike, thinner and smoother, lacks tough suspension. The tires on some push bikes include materials to help absorb the shocks of uneven pavement. Some hybrid bikes include front shock absorbers and rear suspension, features you may also find in mountain bike tires. Some hybrid bikes include locking suspension that you can use when you wish.
References
- Sheldon Brown: Singlespeed Conversion
- "The Independent"; Cycling Special Report: The Lean, Green Sexy Machine; Andy Bull; May 4 1999
- "Herald Sun"; What's the Bike For Me? Daniel Hoy; March 9, 2010
- "The Washington Post"; Look, Ma, No Pedals! Bike Trend Catches on With Kids, Families; Lisa Fernandez; Nov. 21, 2010
- "Sydney Morning Herald"; How to Buy a Bicycle; Galvin Nick; Nov. 18, 2000
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