workCycle.info-

Almost any bike can be used for a short commute to work. But the right bike can make it more comfortable and more enjoyable. For starters, if you already own a bike, particularly if you ride it regularly, that is probably all the bike you will need. You may just need to add a few accessories for a more efficient commute. Make sure that it is in good working order, especially if it has been sitting for a while. For more information go to basic maintenance.

If you are considering purchasing a new bike, here are some tips:

things to consider

There are a few principles (for lack of a better word) to follow when purchasing a new bike. These are not all of them, but they are a start.

Beware Bargain Brands
That no-name bike you get for 100 bucks is no bargain when it breaks down in a three months. A good quality used bike is a much better option than a cheap new no-name brand bike.

My advice: Purchase a new bike from a reputable dealer. It is difficult to find a bike that fits you in the classified ads or on eBay. With a dealer you get a bike fitted for you, warranty protection, and most dealers will give you about a 90 day “break in” period where they will make minor adjustments. Some even offer the first tune up for free. Stick with name brands (Trek, Giant, Specialized, etc.) and buy from a good bike shop that can service it. There are several good bike shops in this area. Costco, Sears, or Kmart do not count as bike dealers.

You do not have to buy a really expensive bike, but consider this a long-term investment. For less than one or two car payments you can buy a bike that will last longer than your car.

Proper Fit
Fit refers to how a bike is adjusted for an individual rider. It starts with the right size bike for the rider. Then it includes adjusting the seat, handlebars and other components to give the rider the best possible riding position. The bike should be fitted to you, not you to the bike. If the bike is not the right size for you and adjustments are not made to fit you, your commute can be downright uncomfortable—even painful. A good bike dealer will help you select the right size for you and then make the necessary adjustments to achieve the proper fit.

The Saddle (seat)
A very important consideration when making a new bike purchase is the saddle. I am serious. If you put any distance at all in on a bike, the right saddle can make all the difference. I discuss choosing the right saddle on the outfitting your bike page.

the type of bike

Choosing a bike is not that difficult. Ask a few basic questions and the answers will guide you.

First consider the commute itself:

How far is your commute going to be? A couple of miles? Five miles? More than ten miles?
What kind of terrain will you commute over? Flat roads? Hilly roads? Unpaved trails?
What do you need to carry to and from work? Your wallet? A laptop, change of clothes, books, and paperwork?

Next, consider what you will be doing most with the bike. Will it be used mostly for recreation/fitness or for commuting? Answer that question and you are halfway there.

If you are going to use it a lot for recreation/fitness, buy the type of bike for the type of recreational or fitness riding you do and then adapt it to commuting. Do you like off-roading or trail riding? Get a mountain bike. Do you like long distance rides and hill climbing? Get a road bike. You get the picture.

If you are going to primarily use it for commuting, then there are a couple of options: A touring bike or a commuter bike. What is the difference? Riding position, mostly. A touring bike has drop handlebars like a road bike and a commuter bike (generally) has straight handlebars like a mountain or hybrid bike.

Recreational/Fitness Category
Cruiser
		Pros: Can be relatively affordable, Cool-looking. The perfect laid-back beach ride. Cons: Heavy, Usually only 1 to 3 gears, difficult on hills. Many, with the exception of the bike to the left, cannot be mounted with a rack and panniers for cargo. A fun choice for flat commutes or cruising the beach. Makes you want to clip playing-cards to the front fork like when you were a kid.

Hybrid/Comfort Bike
		Pros: Much lighter weight than a mountain bike. Moderately priced. Very comfortable riding position. Thinner tires than a mountain bike for less rolling resistance. Some models come with front shocks or suspension seat posts. Many can be fitted with rack and panniers for cargo. Cons: Not as rugged as a mountain bike. An excellent choice if you use it mostly for commuting and street riding, although some models are designed for light trail riding. Can fit into the commuter category as well.

Mountain Bike
		Pros: Rugged, moderately priced. Excellent gear range. Comfortable ride. Many models come with front shocks. There are even full suspension models. Many models can be fitted with rack and panniers for cargo. Cons: Can be a bit on the heavy side. A consideration if you need to carry it to your office on the third floor. Knobby tires can make pedaling a little more work. Versatile, but heavy. Unless you ride off-road or your commute is over rough roads or trails, a hybrid is probably a better choice.

Road Bike
		Pros: Lightweight, fast. Easier to climb hills. Cons: Expensive. Not as rugged as a mountain bike. Usually requires cycling shoes to clip into pedals. Riding position can be uncomfortable if not used to it. Its thin tires are more prone to flats and don't absorb much road vibration. A good choice if you do a lot of cycling or you have a long commute. I use it for my commute. In fact, the model to the left is the bike I currently own.

Commuter Category
Touring Bike
		Pros: Lightweight and reasonably fast. More stable than a road bike. Tires are slightly thicker giving it a little better traction. Has threaded eyelets to accommodate rear and front racks. Cons: Can be fairly expensive. Riding position can be uncomfortable if not used to it. Similar to a road bike, but with a longer wheelbase for more stability. It is designed with carrying cargo in mind. Great for long commutes. Also fits into the recreational/fitness category for those who like touring by bike.

Commuter Bike
		Pros: Basically a hybrid complete with pannier racks, water bottle and cage, lights, lock, pump, kickstand, etc. Add panniers and you are ready. Maybe the perfect bike for urban commuting. Cons: You are stuck with the components that come with the bike. For the price of one of these, you could mix and match on your hybrid. Fairly new to the U.S. market, but have been around in Europe for a while. Trek and Specialized offer models, as do other companies. Good choice if you don't want to wade through deciding on every little piece of equipment.

In summary, if you are buying a bike specifically for commuting, consider a hybrid or commuter bike. They are light, comfortable, and versatile. A mountain bike is a good choice if you want to use it for off-road recreational use as well as commuting. If you are into long distance, road cycling, well… you probably already own a road or touring bike. Note: There are types of bikes that are so specialized, I didn't include them. Examples are recumbent, folding, or electric bikes.