Bike Buying Guide

Riding a bike is a fun and environmentally-friendly way to get around, and cycling regularly will help to get you fit quickly too!

Here are some useful hints and tips to help you choose a suitable bike for your needs from the wide range available online.

How to Choose the Best Type of Bike

Most bicycles fall into the following general categories:

Children's bikes: These come in a large range, starting with first bikes for very young children that come with stabilisers, through to more adult versions with multiple gears.
General bikes: These are standard bicycles for regular use.
Hybrid bikes: This style of bike can be a great choice as it's very versatile in its performance and can easily be used in many places.
Mountain bikes: These are multi-geared bikes with chubby tyres that will give you great street and trail biking enjoyment.
Racing bikes: The minimum frame and tyre weight allows for high speeds to be reached.

Bikes within these categories are sold at a wide range of prices and have a variety of features. Other types of bike are also available, such as the BMX, which will allow you to show off your riding skills.

Features to Look for When You Buy a Bike

When choosing a bike, it's important to choose a model which offers the specifications and features that you'll need.

Some of the key features to look out for when buying a bike include:

Bikes for women: Women will often need a differently designed bike from men, and there are bikes designed specifically for women to ensure that they are comfortable and safe.
Frames: Choose the correct size frame for your build, for both safety and comfort. Always make sure that the reach to the handle bars is just right and that you can touch the ground with your feet. A long-lasting lightweight frame will be worth the money.
Portability: It is possible to get bikes that fold down so that they are easy to transport.
Saddles: These can be made from different materials. If you use your bike for long periods of time, then comfort is going to be an issue. You can choose from a range of different saddle types, which includes gel seats, saddles with gel inserts, saddles with holes and basic cheaper styles. You can also select between wide saddles or the longer narrow variety.
Speeds and gears: Buy a bicycle that has the speeds and gears that will best suit your requirements.
Suspension: Not all bikes have suspension. Decide if you really need it and choose from all-over suspension or front and seat post options. These bikes cost more but it may be worth it, depending on your needs.

Choosing Bike Accessories

Sometimes your new bike may come with certain accessories. If it doesn't, you may want to buy some accessories separately.

Accessories to look out for when choosing a bike include:

Lights: Front and rear lights are a must for road safety when the natural light fades.
Locks: Keep your bike secure when you leave it unattended.
Pump: Tyres need to be kept pumped up and in good condition.
Water bottle: Carrying drink in a water bottle means that you can stay hydrated when you're cycling over longer distances or in hot weather.
Puncture repair kit: A small repair kit can be very useful in case puncture a tyre while you're out cycling.
Panniers: These bags attach to a rack that's mounted on the rear of the bike, and provide a convenient way of carrying your shopping and personal belongings.

Set a Budget Before You Buy a Bike

When you're shopping for a new bike online, remember to look out for special offers or discounts, and to compare prices between different retailers, as you may be able to save money or even get a better bike for your money.

New bikes come with a warranty that covers the cost of replacement or repair, subject to certain conditions. The terms of these warranties vary between manufacturers, so it's worth comparing them before buying.