Buying a bike

linnellal

Hi. I'm buying a bike that I can use for low impact exercise. I've always had a road bike as I was growing up and love the way they ride. But now that I'm older and larger, I am wondering about the merits of other styles of bikes to accommodate a different riding style. Does anyone have an opinion on this or are you all going to say "Go to the bike shop"?

Fittreelol

Go to the bike shop

Also not all LBS's are created equal. Make sure they ask you a lot of questions to get an idea of when/how you'll be riding, and don't just plop you on a bike.

GetSoda

Check out bikes like Cyclocross, and Hybrids (No suspension)

IowaJen1979

I am the wrong person to ask! I bought an old cruiser on craigslist for $30, but it's perfect for me to tool around town and go to and from work. I mounted a quick release basket in the front and I have paniers for the back.

CMGoodie

I have both a regular road bike and a tandum recumbant. If you buy a recumbant, they are nice and work your legs more than the standard road bike due to the position of your body. They are comfortable and the seats are wide. We purchased the recumbant due to my broken neck and a standard will aggrevate it after a while.


Unfortunately, "Go to the bike shop" is probably going to be a standard answer. They can fix you up properly with proper height, seat recommendation/positioning. It's not like riding a bike in our day anymore.

Good luck.

dnunny

I just got a bike....a Schwinn. I love it!

mfpcopine

A couple of years ago, I was considering buying a bicycle and I attended a series of programs at bike shops sponsored by a pro-biking group. There was quite a bit to it and if I finally make a purchase I will develop a relationship with a shop. The following things need to be considered:

Price
Main use (commuting in city, recreational biking, mountain biking, racing)
Weather conditions, and whether you will ride only in fair weather or year-round, you may need winter tires
Kind of ride desired (affects the choice of tires)
Accessories needed (affects choice of seat, lights, carriers, locks)
Weight of frame desired (lighter is usually more expensive)
Amount of maintenance owner is willing to perform.

I would use Google, look for books and blogs. There are many blogs for women riders now. Unfortunately, women still get harassed when they ride and those blogs discuss many of the practical problems.

I live in a big city. I'm attracted to folding computer bikes, at least as a first bicycle.

mlb929

I think it depends on where you want to ride more than body size.

jazzcat55

I love my Trek hybrid. We mainly ride paved bike trails. It is so comfortable, with a very smooth ride.

FrnkLft

Yeah I suppose a hybrid would be a good place to start. And if you go to the bike shop... make sure it's not just any bike shop.

If you're going to listen to someone it's best that they know what they are talking about and have the time to help.