I need a new bike but I am new at this..??

Question

I am a new rider and I don't know what to get. I want something that looks like a cruiser but is more like a hybrid. Does that exist? Silly question maybe but I seriously don't know anything about bikes. Help please??

Answer 1

I've always referred to a 'Hybrid' as a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike.

Hybrid Bike: http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/bike...

Have a look at these links, you'll see some different styles of bikes that are available.

http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/bike...

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/

The type of bike that you need is judged by the type of riding that you intend on doing with it and where you'll be riding it. The important thing is getting a bike that has the right size frame for your body/height.

Answer 2

http://www.biria.com

Answer 3

Cruisers often have only 1-3 gears, good for flat land.

Comfort bikes often have 7 - 27, better for hilly areas. They combine the cruiser upright seating with mountain bike gearing. Check out the following: http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bike...

Hybrids are more like mountain bikes on a diet and with skinny wheels. You lean over the front wheel. Good for speed, not so beginner friendly though.

Then set a budget. You can get wonderful bikes for $275-400. Most important is to get the proper fit. You will fall in love with it if it fits you correctly.

This is where your Local Bike Shop (LBS) comes to the rescue. A good one should be able to answer any of your questions and get you the best fit. They will be happy to show you how to shift and brake efficiently and safely. They should also include at least 1 tune up with the purchase. They can even help you select and adjust a good helmet to meet your needs. I always recommend helmets. Just cheap insurance.

Answer 4

Before you go spend $2K on a nice bike I would get a low-end decent bike first.

Next, what are planning on doing with it? Do you want to putt around the park and get some exercise, ride to work, get on the road and see how fare you can go?

I know the avid bikers here are gunna cringe but I would start with a Wal-mart for a year then move to a Trek, Specialized, etc.

Surprisingly Wal-Mart sells bikes from $47 dollars to $1600 dollar Carbon fiber road bikes (on-line only).

Get a year on a bike (pay at least $200 not just $47) and if your still riding next year get the Specialized.