What type of bike should I buy?

Question

I recently took a bike ride with my brother using my dad's road bike and enjoyed it and now I would like to buy one of my own but I'm not sure what to get. I will be using the bike primarily around town and on the road as a form of cardio.

My friend goes to the mountain bike trails but since the majority of my riding would be on the street I feel that it would be pointless to buy a mountain bike since it is geared differently and will be slow. Road bikes look great for the road (obviously) but there is sand and dirt in a lot of areas and i'm not sure how it would fair in those conditions. Also, it seems the hunched over position doesn't look that pleasant. I'm not going to be a Lance Armstrong, I'm just looking to replace my 30 minutes of indoor cardio with something new and fun. I've also looked at hybrids but some people say they like them and others say they're kind of a jack of all trades, master of none. I don't need a specialized road bike, I just want something comfortable and fun that I can get a good workout on in the streets without being hunched over. Any recommendations? (brands, type, etc.)

Answer 1

How about a recumbent. They are much more comfortable, better for your back and fun. They take a little getting used to (balance) . They can be expensive but you could try craigslist or ebay.

Answer 2

buy a good one.

Answer 3

Personally I enjoy my hybrid a LOT =)  My friends had some trouble with it, but that's their problem.  It's true that is is indeed the "jack of all trades," but they do such a good job of it I don't mind.  Make sure you go to a real bike shop (not walmart, targets, kmart, or any other sort of store like that.  A bike shop that sells only bikes) and they will likely allow you to take it for a spin to see if you like it.  There are models made with adjustable handlebars that you can bring close to you so you can sit up nice and straight (or you can ride no-handed!) so you don't have to hunch over.  I've got a Giant (brand) Cypress (model).  It's not the best in the world, but it's good enough for me.  

Answer 4

WOW.  I cannot believe that no one has suggested a hardtail mountain bike.  Hardtail means no back shock, so they are pretty efficient.  It will have no trouble with mud, gravel, potholes, etc.  They have very comfortable riding positions and the gearing is fine seeing as i can push 40 miles an hour on mine and still engage the pedals.

Look at the 2008 IronHorse Warrior 5.0, or for a lot less you could get a 2007 IronHorse Warrior 3.0 or 2.0.  Just a few suggestions.

Answer 5

Go to a reputable bike store and talk to the salesman. They are likely to be riders and they'll ask you questions that will help you in your choice.

Answer 6

The best bike for you would be a Hybrid bike. Halfords do a Carrera Subway. Its leaning more towards the mountain bike style than the road style. Its got the same size wheels as a mountain bike-not such wide tyres. Gear raito is great too. Good range for all riding conditions. It also has an adjustable stem angle which will bring the handle bars up and towards you so you aren't hunched over.

Not bad price either Subway 1 at £200 and the Subway 2 at £300. Go and have a look see what you think. A good Halfords store will let you try the bike outside and set it up so its right for you.

Good luck, hope i've helped.

Answer 7

wow out of all those words people can still get confused about if your talking about a BICYCLE or MOTORCYCLE  

Answer 8

Watch the Peewee Herman movie.

His is awesome. You'll love it.

Answer 9

Choppers are great. They go over anything.

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Answer 10

Beach Cruisers are always fun!

Answer 11

get a little red tricycle