How To Choose The Best Bike For Your Needs
With so many types of bikes on the market for different disciplines it can be confusing to choose the right bike for your needs. We here at Freedom Machine Byron Bay have crafted a straight to the point guide designed to help you choose which bike is best for you in just a few simple questions.
What Is Your Budget?
Before you do any research it is probably best to get a firm figure in your mind. This will help you filter bikes to match your price range. You don’t want to go blowing the bank on something you aren’t completely comfortable with or the top of the line if you don’t need it. Find a bike that you need and want. Something that is you!
What Type Of Riding Will You Be Doing?
Leisure
Leisure riding can be short trips to the shops, meeting up with your mates at the park or riding down your local canal tow path. You'll want a versatile bike that can tackle a range of situations. A hybrid is ideal as they combine the efficiency of lightweight road bike, but the stability and durability of a mountain bike.
Commuting
For daily rides of less than 15 miles or so you'll want a comfortable bike that isn't too heavy and hard to pedal. Mudguard mounts are a great feature to keep you clean and dry. Powerful disc brakes are perfect for busy urban environments.
Road Riding
Fast-paced cycling on the roads. They are lightweight and require a bent over, low-down position to improve aerodynamics. Road riding can be races over short distances, or long distance (100+) endurance rides. These bikes are excellent for beating the morning rush to work too.
Off Roading
When the tarmac ends, mountain biking begins. We're talking forest tracks, smooth singletrack and trail centre loops. Mountain bikes are durable with upright stable riding positions. Forks and suspension systems add weight so some strength and agility is needed for more rugged off-roading.
What Is Your Fitness Level?
This is a key factor in choosing the best bike for you. Do you have any joint or mobility problems that would hinder you riding a heavy e-bike or mountain bike? Would being bent over into an aerodynamic position for a long time cause you back problems?
A hybrid classic bike with an upright riding position will be best in terms of comfort. Road bikes and cyclocross bikes need you to be quite flexible to reach the drop handlebars. A mountain bike requires you to be quite fit and agile as these bikes are heavier because they are more durable.
Consider An E-Bike
Electric bikes (also known as e-bikes) are becoming more popular, with compact batteries and powerful motors to help assist your pedalling. These bikes flatten hills, quicken commutes and let you ride further for less effort. E-bikes are all about having fun and are 100% more safe for the environment than a car!
You can buy an e-MTB to head into the wild, or an e-hybrid for speedy trips around town. You can now even get e-Road bikes for your next Tour De France.
See our full range of bikes and e-bikes via our website!
