Bicycle suggestions for adults?

Question

I'm a 22-year-old female who hasn't hopped on a bicycle in years! I'm interested in getting a bike that I can cruise around town in.

I'm hoping to get some advice on a good bicycle for a "beginner" ... I know how to ride one, but I want something that is comfortable and easy to ride. So, possible one with a lower seat and handlebars that aren't too high?

Sorry, but I'm no expert. I have no idea what to look for. Help?

Answer 1

There are a variety of bicycles, for a variety of styles.

Figure out what you really would like the bicycle for.  For fitness, or fighting fuel prices.  See if you can't find a friend, who might have a road bike and/or mountain bike you could try.   If you don't know anyone, try the LBS (local bike shop), they would be more then happy to let you ride a variety of bicycles and perhaps even rent one to you to try.  My shop applies a rental fee toward the purchase price.

Also have in mind how much you can afford and are willing to pay.  Do not purchase a department store bike, they  'are' inexpensive, but you will only be wasting your money, they are poster child poor quality products.

As mentioned before there are Road, Mountain and Hybrid bikes.  

Road bikes are going to be lighter, narrow tired very quick, and for some people, have a very aggressive--uncomfortable even--postion.  The Trek 1.2, is a great entry level road bike, and is around $700.  

Mountain bikes will be slightly heavier, more durable, and entry level models start around $250, with a good sport model around $500.

The latter category spans quite a vast array of styles, some lean more toward paved trail/road are light and quick, while others lean more toward graveled trail to off-road, and will be a little bulkier.

There are also bikes designed specifically for commuting, the Trek Portland comes to mind, and some of the classier bikes like Rivendell which are beautiful bikes and very comfortable to ride.  Those are examples, but you can find others.

If you are going to use the bike for more all-round, look into its adaptability for a rear rack (which you can attach a trunk bag), which will come in handy for running errands.

Once you have an idea of the 'what, where, how' you would like to ride, and a budget, head to a couple of shops, each has a different flavor, and ride a bunch of different ones, you'll find one you like.

If you're going to ride in parades, maybe you need to look at something like this. ..

http://deadwoodbicycles.com/images/penny...

Get out and ride!

Answer 2

Your best option is to go to a bike shop and get fitted for whatever bike you want. Most shops let you test ride any bike you want, so test them all out. In my opinion a road bike is the only way to go.

Answer 3

a good bike for riding around town would be a breezer.  they are super comfortable and not to expensive.  go to www.breezerbikes.com

Answer 4

Hi!

Good for you - it's going to do you and the world some good!

I've been riding my bike everywhere, M-F and it feels great.

I ride a 'beach cruiser' which is great if you don't want to get anywhere super fast. It gets you where you gotta go comfortably and looks great with a flower basket on the front.

If you want more durability, a mountain bike works for that.

If you want some speed and maneuverability, a racing type bike (more expensive) is incredible.

Good luck!