With biking being more popular than ever and with more and more cities adopting cycle friendly environments for everyone from downhill extremists to Sunday afternoon pootlers, there is no better time to be thinking about getting a bike than now. While there are certainly enough bikes out there to choose from, selecting the right one for your needs can sometimes be a bit tricky, especially if you haven’t ridden a bike since you were a teenager. Not to worry, this quick guide can narrow things down for you.

Where Should I Get My Bike?

First things first: finding a bike. Now you can of course go to places like Halfords or Argos to choose your bike from a large selection, but if cost is an issue, as it is for so many at the moment, local bike shops, online stores and recycling centres are a great place to grab a bargain. Try your local directory or search online using a search engine and you should be able to find hundreds to choose from in seconds. Now, back to the initial question:

So what type bike should I get?

Mountain Bike

If you want to be able to ride your bike up hill and down dale without cycling on a single road, then you need a mountain bike. These are designed to withstand the punishment of off-road cycling. These come with thick knobbly tyres, partial (and sometimes full) suspension and large wheels. This category of bike also includes highly modified ‘downhill’ bikes which take part in extreme downhill racing competitions.

BMX Bike

BMX stands for ‘Bicycle Motocross’. This type of bike was designed for racing across motocross style terrain which includes a range of extreme jumps and other obstacles. BMX bikes are also used for performing flat land tricks and half-pipe tricks and other types of extreme biking. If you are extreme, this is the bike for you. There are many kinds, from the cheap bmx bike to expensive high-end models.

Hybrid Bike

Otherwise known as a ‘City bike’, this type is best used for general day-to-day activities and commuting. Hybrid Bikes are close to a mountain bike design but with a more comfortable seating position and less dramatic suspension. These often come with a basket or carrying platform attached and are best used for trips to work, (unless you work up a mountain).

Road/Racing Bike

These are designed for serious cycling enthusiasts who like to do ‘Tour de France’ type cycling. They are often the most expensive and are made to be light and fast so include some seriously high tech materials. These are for serious cycling by serious people.

So there you go, everything you need to know. But remember: please always wear a helmet!

Sam Qam is a eco transport expert promoting the benefits of low carbon travel. From cheap bmx bike to Hybrid Bike, there is no better way to travel.

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