Finding the Right Bike for My Kids

Bicycle commuters ride a variety of bikes. Some have racing-style bikes; others are on mountain bikes, hybrids or folding bikes. Commuting doesn’t require a specific type of vehicle, but you should get one you’re comfortable with that suits your needs.

Some companies have begun making models designed specifically for commuting. Many copy European commuting bikes and come equipped with handy accessories like fenders, chain guards, and baskets. While these bikes are perfect for riding a few blocks, they may have only a few gears, so you won’t be able to use them on bigger hills. Plus, they’re often fairly heavy, so if you plan on taking longer rides with friends, be prepared to work a little harder than your companions.

Gears

How many gears you need depends on where you live and what kind of riding you plan on doing. If you live in a flat area and don’t plan on riding more than a few miles at a time, a three-speed should be fine. On the other hand, if you’re in a hilly region and are hoping to ride just about everywhere, you’ll need something stronger and more flexible. Bicycles with 21 speeds are common and give you enough options to get up most hills. The more gears your bike has, the more versatile it will be for handling various riding conditions and terrains.

Handlebars

Deciding on a handlebar style can be tricky. Drop handlebars – the curvy ones you see on racing bikes – provide a number of grip options and put your body in a position that helps you go faster. On the other hand, they force you to lean over for the entire ride.

More traditional commuting bikes, like those used in Europe or China, have upright handlebars that allow you to sit upright and see the world while you ride. They aren’t as convenient for long distances, though. Which one is best for you depends on your plans and preferences.

Tires

It’s important to have tires that fit the riding you’re doing. Mountain bike tires are wide and sturdy, but their treads will slow you down on longer stretches of pavement. Road bikes have smooth, lean and light tires, but they can be treacherous on bumpy roads or rainy days. The best tires for commuting are somewhere in the middle – not too thick and not too thin, and with a moderate amount of tread.

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EBicycles provides free Information about bicycles guides, bicycling, and related topics including helpful guides and how-to’s, bicycle manufacturer profiles.