The Bay Area is full of riding opportunities — from long solo rides across California’s central coast to group rides with likeminded cyclists — and choosing the right bicycle for your lifestyle can be key to enjoying every second of it.
However, it can feel like a big (and sometimes intimidating) decision. Afterall, there are several specs that can play a role in the comfort of your ride. Before you start shopping, consider what type of riding you’ll do most and where you’ll be riding. These factors will shape your search more than anything.
Types of riding
City riding + commuting: Looking for a practical way to get around the city? A bike designed for commuting may be your best bet. These bikes come with a ton of options, like frame material, so you really can specialize your bike for your lifestyle. These bikes may also offer some flexibility for traveling, with racks and storage. Flat handlebars on these types of bikes will help increase comfort.
Leisure: There’s no shame in a relaxed ride. A cruiser, comfort, or hybrid bike may be the right option for those who are looking for a less intense ride, especially when northern California offers so many opportunities to take in the sights. These bikes will have simple gearing, comfortable seats, and an upright position. A bicycle designed for leisure will also be fairly simple to maintain. They’re a great way to get into cycling.
Off road riding: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and find yourself off of paved roads often, consider a bike that’s built for the terrain. A bike with thick tires, suspension, and a sturdy frame, will best help you navigate loose gravel and challenging trails. Mountain bikes and gravel bikes are the most common bikes you’ll see. They will likely have a wide range of gears, which can be good for climbing and descending steep hills or mountainous trails, disc brakes, and dropper seatposts, so the rider can adjust according to what they need at any given moment throughout the ride.
Long Distance: Touring bikes are meant to be comfortable. After several miles on a bike seat, you’ll be thankful for a bicycle that’s built with ergonomics in mind. Long distance riders should look for bikes with a robust frame, wider tires, and upright geometry (this is what will keep you comfortable during miles-long rides). An additional feature that may be helpful is storage options, especially if you’re planning a multi-day ride.
Bike styles and features
Once you’ve determined how you’ll mostly use your bike, it’s time to narrow in on what features and specifications to put on your list of wants.
Material: Some bikes feature different materials. Aluminum, for example, is typically used to keep bicycles lightweight. Other common options include steel, carbon fiber, and titanium. Each has its advantages and setbacks. Carbon fiber, for example, can be brittle if not well maintained or its integrity is jeopardized in a crash, but it can also be light. Steel is often among the most cost-effective options and most durable.
Depending on your kind of ride and your goals, you may want a specific material. If you’re more of a leisurely cyclist, it may come down to preference. Don’t be afraid to ask your local bike retailer what might be ideal for you and your riding style. These experts will have the best advice based on what you’re wanting to achieve.
Frame size: This is an important factor for any type of bicycle. The bottom line is that if your bike doesn’t fit you, you’ll be uncomfortable and it can even make for a dangerous ride. To achieve the right fit, you’ll need your height and inside leg measurement. From there, you can determine which frame size is right for you – but remember, every type of bike is different. So, you may have to do a little research – look for a bike size calculator online – or try out different options.
Additional specifications: There are tons of additional specifications you can make, like wheel size, gears, and brakes. Once you’ve decided on a frame, this will probably be your next biggest set of decisions. This is also where things can become overwhelming. Luckily, there are tons of resources to help you find the right choice for you.
Just like a car, these choices can come with a price, so keep that in mind as well. While some specs are something you need in a bicycle, you might find that others aren’t required to have a good ride. A good example is wheels, which may need to be a specific size or type depending on the bike or type of riding you’re doing.
Budget
Choosing the right bicycle should also come with a budget. Without a budget, it’s easy to get lost in all of the options that come with different styles, brands, and features.
A good bike can be an investment, and if you’re riding daily, you’ll want something you can rely on. Remember to also think about the cost of maintenance, the potential for replacement parts, and the accessories you’ll need: helmets, gloves, clothing, and additional features, like bottles or bottle cages. These costs can add up easily, so having a range to stick to will be handy in making the right decision for you.
Hitting the road
Now that you’ve considered all the factors that go into choosing the right bicycle, remember the ultimate reason for your journey. Whether it’s enjoying nature, doing your part to protect the environment, or for sport, cycling is a big, welcoming community with lots of resources. There really is no shortage of how far cycling can take you.
Remember to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road, make yourself visible, and if you do find yourself in a crash, seek out the right resources. The friendly and knowledgeable bicycle attorneys Bay Area Bicycle Law is dedicated to northern California’s cyclists and helping them through the legal process. Reach out for a free consultation today.