Cycling has always been a popular way to get outside, keep in shape, and explore the world around you. If you’re in the market for a new bike, there are a few things you need to know. Let’s take a look at the top 5 types of bikes based on your goals. 

Why Do You Want a Bike?

Think about why you’re in the market for a bike in the first place.

• Are you buying it to get in shape?
• Do you want it to join your buddies on some off-road adventure?
• Where do you want to ride the bike?
• In which seated position do you feel most comfortable?

There are plenty of reasons to buy a bike. Narrow yours down and you’ll narrow the type of bike you need to buy.

3. I’m looking for… adventure.

If the reason you’re buying a bike has everything to do with taking your wheels off-road, then you’ll want to buy either a mountain bike or a hybrid bike. It depends on how “off road” you want to get. If you’ll be going over rocky and bumpy terrain, opt for the mountain bike. If you only occasionally want to ride on a dirt path but mainly want to stick to pavement, then opt for the hybrid.

Another kind of adventure is racing. If you want to take your bike on the track and compete, then you need to go right for the racing bike. We highly advise going to a local store and chatting with people who have been in the racing bike business for years. Don’t buy a racer from a huge department store. Yes, the bike will be more expensive but it’s worth every penny.

2. I’m looking for… fitness.

Maybe the outdoor adventure in the woods isn’t for you. That means you’ll want to stick to the pavement and streets of your neighborhood and beyond. In this case, you’ll want to go with a recreational bike or road bike. It depends on the distance you plan on going.

If you want to consistently ride many miles for your fitness goals then buy a road bike as they are built to handle the endurance. A recreational bike is great for someone who wants to ride on a consistent basis but isn’t looking to be Lance Armstrong.

1. I’m looking for… the occasional stroll.

You like riding a bike but it’s not your main source of exercise. You also can do without the long distance rides. You’re the average guy or gal and you’re not sure what to buy. You have three options. All are great but one may be better for you, depending on your situation.

A road bike is going to go the distance if you know for a fact that you’ll be sticking to the road and pavement. If you ever decide to tackle some serious miles, you’ll have that option. They are sleek and fast.

A hybrid bike gives you the best of both worlds. You can take it for a spin on the street then go to your local park and hit up the dirt path. They aren’t great with serious mileage and they may not fare too well with a hardcore outdoor track but the hybrid bike is an ideal middle ground.

Finally, there is the recreational bike. This is ideal for the stroll around the block. There’s nothing fancy about it. It’s the most straightforward of all the options but it’s important to remember, it also has the least amount of options. It’s a bike made to go around the block and enjoy the local scenery. That’s it.

Tell Us What You Think!

What do you look for when buying a bike?

Any helpful advice to offer the readers?

Let us know in the comments section below!