| Many people consider getting a bicycle. | | | | Now that you have an idea of some of the |
| However, most people do not know how to | | | | things to look for when purchasing your new |
| choose the right bicycle, thus many end up | | | | bike, you need to make sure the bike fits |
| getting the wrong kind. The following | | | | you. You can do this by straddling the frame |
| paragraphs will discuss how to choose the | | | | of the bicycle to make sure you crotch area |
| right bike for you, as well as provide some | | | | clears the middle bar by at least an inch or |
| valuable tips on how to choose the right | | | | two. Most bicycle seats can be adjusted so |
| bicycle. | | | | your knees will be slightly bent when the |
| | | | pedal is at it's lowest point. If there is |
| Although bike shop employees may tell you | | | | too much side to side movement in your hips |
| differently, the best choices for a bike are | | | | when you ride your new bike, the seat is too |
| often a city bike or a hybrid. These bicycles | | | | high. You may need to adjust the seat and |
| are the type that are somewhere between a | | | | bring it down some. Most salespeople will |
| mountain bike and a road bike. A city bike is | | | | help you with your bicycle adjustments if you |
| made for regular use around town, or regular | | | | ask. |
| use period. Mountain bikes, however, are | | | | |
| exactly as their name implies. They are | | | | When you purchase your new bike, there are |
| intended for dirt tracks, and fall very short | | | | many options and extras that will be offered |
| when expected to do everyday duties. | | | | to you. You must use your best judgment, and |
| | | | choose what will suit you best. Toe clips, or |
| Once you have found the type of bike you | | | | metal cages on your pedals, may be offered. |
| prefer, it is extremely important to choose a | | | | These toe clips are designed to keep your |
| bike with a comfortable seat. You will also | | | | feet in place, in constant contact with the |
| want to look for a bike with handlebars that | | | | pedals. This can help prevent knee injury by |
| will allow you to maintain an upright | | | | allowing you to lift up, as well as push |
| position. Fenders, a rack, or even a basket | | | | down, when you are pedaling your new bike. |
| is not necessary, but can help encourage you | | | | However, you should beware. It can take a |
| to use your new bike for daily chores, as | | | | couple of rides before you get used to the |
| well as exercise. | | | | toe clips. |
| | | | |