It’s never too late to rediscover the joy and freedom of riding a bike, especially in these times when elaborate travel and big vacations are not options. You can quietly connect with your ecosystem by cycling. Instead of just moving around the landscape, you become part of it. You will be amazed at the beauty and diversity of architecture, scenery, wildlife, and other features that are just a few kilometers from your home.
There are many bikes that can be used for different types of riding. However, there is something for everyone. Here are seven of the most popular bikes for covering the terrain you will encounter. We also have our pick for the best bike for each category. You’ll find tips and recommendations for where and what accessories to buy.
Gravel bike
Ideal for: Pavement, dirt, and gravel roads, touring
A gravel bike is the closest thing to being a master of all trades. You can use wider wheels to allow for larger tires on rough terrain or for smoother pavement. Drop handlebars allow you to adjust your hand position for maximum comfort while riding long distances. Smooth-shifting is possible for climbing and steep descents.
Pros:
- Ideal for all terrain types
- Wide gear range
- Lightweight
Cons:
- There is no suspension so it’s not suitable for true mountain biking and singletrack.
Mountain bike
Ideal for: Singletrack, gnarly trails
Many people find mountain bikes more comfortable because they have flat handlebars. Full suspension models are ideal for rough and technical trails like singletracks up the mountains. Hardtails (front suspension only), work well on less technical terrain such as rocky fire roads or muddy country lanes. Rocky Mountain bikes are designed to be used on rough terrain. To get rid of the mud, add fenders. The majority of these styles have fewer gears than other styles. This reduces maintenance but can make it more difficult to find the most comfortable one.
Pros:
- Trails and muddy terrain can be cultivated
- You can switch to slick tires when you are on the road
Cons:
- Hand positions are limited
- Limited gear range
Cruiser
Ideal for: Neighborhood rides
Beach cruisers, also known as cruisers, are small and stable bikes that can be used to explore the local area. Many bikes come with storage racks, fenders, and chain guards. Some have a step-through design, making them easy to climb on and off. They are heavy and can be difficult to lift up hills due to their weight.
Pros:
- Stable, low center gravity
- These items are usually supplied with fenders, baskets and racks.
- Cute and nostalgic
Cons:
- Heavy
- Terrible for hilly regions
Electric bike
Ideal for: Easy riding with fun
Electric bikes have revolutionized cycling, making it accessible to those with mobility issues, and enabling everyone to ride farther with less effort. “Pedal-assist” bikes have the same feel as regular bikes, but the motor supercharges your pedal strokes. Typically, they have a removable rear- or tube-mounted battery with a range of 30 to 60 miles before needing to be recharged. A lot of e-bikes hide the battery in the frame, so it’s not obvious you’re riding one.
Pros:
- Reduces fatigue and goes further
- Pedal-assisted models still feel like riding a bicycle
- Electric bikes no longer “look” like them
Cons:
- The battery must be recharged/the range is limited
- Expensive and heavy
Commuter bike
Ideal for: Urban stop-and-go rides
The commuter bike, also known as an urban bike, is a simple and well-designed bike that can be used for family rides in the city and suburbs. They are comfortable for cycling within the city, stopping and starting, and hitting up the farmer’s market, but are less comfortable for long endurance rides. commuters bikes are the best mountain bikes, which is also comfortable for mountain riding.
Pros:
- It looks great
- Suitable for hills rather than cruisers or folding bikes
- Fitted with fenders and racks
Cons:
- Gear range is limited
- Off-road use is not permitted
Road bike
Ideal for: speed and endurance on well-maintained roads, this is the best option
Do you want to experience what it is like to do a 50-mph descent? The ‘Roadies are light and fast with carbon-fiber frames. They also have a lower riding position and a more aggressive riding position. They can get pricey quickly. A $2,500 model could be considered a starter bicycle, while a $15,000 model with electronic shifting and brakes, race wheels, and any other aerodynamic gadget can cost up to $15,000
Pros:
- Precise sizing
- Very light
- Aerodynamic and quick
Cons:
- Expensive
- Overkill for casual neighborhood rides
- For off-roading, not
Folding bike
Ideal for: Office workers
The problem-solving bikes can be folded up in a matter of seconds. Urban suit people can take their bike to work by taking a commuter train. Once there, they can unfold the bike and then ride the last few blocks to their office. A folding bike’s small wheels are fine for smooth roads but will feel every bump and pothole.
Pros:
- Ideal for tight spaces and storage
- Available in travel bags and boxes
Cons:
- It is not recommended for serious hill climbing or long rides.
- A bumpy ride on less than smooth roads
Hybrid bike
Ideal for: Your backup bike
Hybrids are also known as comfort and fitness bikes. They try to do everything but excel at none of it. They are fine for a guest’ bike but have a low-quality component and are heavyweight. Instead of buying a hybrid, think about what you want from your bike and match it to one of the models listed above. You don’t have to buy the most expensive model in a big-box shop if you need one. You can also go to garage sales and get a tune-up at a local shop.
Pros:
- It’s affordable
Cons:
- Lowest-grade components
- Heavy
- Uncomfortable
More tips for biking
It is all about size
A bike should allow you to comfortably straddle the bike and put your foot on the ground when it is stopped. To reach the pedals, you shouldn’t have to rock side to side. Bikes are sold in a variety of sizes (S/M/L, etc.). You’ll also see bikes sold in ranges (S/M/L, etc.)
Where to Buy
Bikes are mechanical. You’ll need to have your bike serviced periodically as parts wear out and require replacement. Your local bike shop is the best option for your initial purchase. They’ll probably offer a few years of free adjustments. Online ordering is now available for some brands. You can pick up your bike at a local shop, or have it delivered to you at home.
Essential accessories
A helmet (or brain bucket) and a pump are essential. You can find decent versions for as low as $30 to $70. If you intend to make stops, a bike lock is a must ($20-$100).
Optional gear
Bottles cages and fenders, as well as racks, fenders, racks, and baskets, add weight, but also increase utility. These mounts are available on most bikes. If you have a flat tire and are far away from home, a small repair kit that includes an inner tube and an inflation tool is a great help.
You can also read: How to Find the Right Tire for Your E-bikes
