|
 Buying a bike is a lot like buying a car and should be treated as such. A bike should be comfortable and pleasant to ride. The following are some guidelines that will take most of the guess work out of the purchase - most importantly be honest with yourself and your dealer as to the type of riding you will do most of the time.
1. First, give some thought to what kind of riding you want to do, your level of experience, and your overall approach to cycling. Why do you want to ride? For fitness or just for fun? Casually, or seriously? Where do you want to ride? Street, bike trail or off-road? How frequently? The more you know what you want, the easier it will be to work with professionals to select a bicycle which will best suit your needs.
2. Deal with a servicing bicycle dealer. Tell them what your desires are, and they will advise you on appropriate bicycles for your needs. They can fit you properly to a bike, assemble it professionally, and give you the kind of advice and continuing service you need to ride safely and comfortably. Beware of retailers who do not have on-site service departments, or do not offer these kinds of services. They may not meet all your needs.
3. The size of the bicycle is critical for safe, comfortable riding. We work with you to determine the proper size for you. Some bicycle models have eight or more sizes! The length of your inseam determines the correct frame size, in terms of stand-over height. The reach to the bars is also critical for comfort. Ask us to recommend a proper fit for you based on the kind of riding you'll be doing. What's comfortable for one style of rider may not be for another.
4. Buy what you like. Feel good about what you're buying, how it looks, how it rides. Ask to take a test ride to compare bikes. If you haven't ridden a dealer-quality bicycle before, be prepared to be surprised at the exceptional value and quality available today. We also advise that if you're in doubt, buy the slightly better bike. There's a lot of value in bicycles these days, and a little more money spent can equal significantly improved performance and resale value.
6. Ask for advice on things you may not understand, such as quick-release operation, shifting, braking, maintenance, etc. Be sure to receive an owner's manual with the bicycle, and read it. Owner's manuals contain valuable information to help make your experience safer and more fun.
7. Ask for advice on other equipment you may need or want. Buy a helmet first, and wear it. There are many other products which can enhance the riding experience. There are numerous books and magazines available to help you educate yourself about the nuances of cycling.
8. Have fun, and talk to your dealer if you have problems or questions. They have the kind of service you are looking for. |
