Two Questions Before You Buy
The first time buyer often has no idea how to select a bike which is why it’s important to visit at least two bike shops before purchasing. Shopping locally when possible makes it convenient when your bike requires servicing; tune-ups, minor adjustments, or other bike related purchases. Overall you’ll want to feel comfortable with the staff and the store you choose.
Buying a new bike seems fraught with decision making; where to buy, what size, what color, what brand? The whole process can be simplified by asking yourself two key questions before you begin to shop. The first question should be, “What is my intended purpose or goal in buying a bike?” Is my goal centered around enjoying casual bike rides for my overall health and fitness? Am I cycling to do a bit of beach cruising or would I rather do some hill climbing? Or am I interested in competition or events which may include distance riding or hill climbing? Would I rather stick to mountain biking? Or is my interest in doing triathlon’s? Deciding the type of riding will narrow your search greatly and help you to purchase the best bike to suit your long term interest. Secondly, what is my budget? This answer too will narrow your search further.
Be sure of your goal or you could end up with a beautiful bike that you won’t ever ride. For those of you who have been cycling awhile, you probably have this all figured out.
While we all have a favorite color, color alone is no reason to buy. Remember to avoid impulse buying and opt for taking those all important test rides. Test ride at least two bikes at a couple different shops. Also important no matter which bike you purchase be sure and get a “bike fitting”. A proper fitting will help to insure your having to endure costly, painful, wrist, neck, shoulder, back and leg injuries. A competent bike salesperson can help you with that all important initial basic bike fitting typically included with your purchase. If you plan on cycling often and to insure the best possible fit, seek out a professional bike fitter for a comprehensive fitting. Your bike shop can usually refer you to a local pro. Remember one bike doesn’t fit all, not in size, style, or fit, so be sure to give your selection some thought before you buy.
Budget. Purchasing a new bike can range from the hundreds to the thousands of dollars. If you are considering a road bike, know that entry level aluminum road bikes cost less and weigh more than the lighter, faster carbon fiber option. As you might guess lighter and faster equates to more expensive. Base price on an entry level carbon fiber road bike starts at around $1500.00. There is nothing wrong with a basic entry level model. Also important to remember when thinking about overall budget, remember to include those important incidentals which include, bike cages, water bottles, saddle bag with spare tube, a set of levers and means to inflate your spare tube should you get a flat. It can be a long walk home if you don’t have these items. Even if you aren’t sure how to change a flat, if you carry these items, often times you will find that your fellow cyclist is willing to stop and give you a helping hand. It’s a good idea to learn how to change a flat too so you won’t have to depend on strangers. You’ll also want to have a tail light and headlight especially if you plan to ride at night.
Tip. Buying a bicycle is similar to buying a car in that older model years. even though new, sell for less because the dealership or in this case bike shop wants to sell previous model years to make room for the newer models. An older model doesn’t make it a bad bike, just a better deal. Whichever model or year you decide to buy. first listen to the sage advice of your local bike shop, be sure to take your test rides until you find the bike that is most comfortable and visually appealing to you. Make your selection, have your bike fitting, then get out a ride. Happy Trails!
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