There is a lot of information out there when it comes to buying a bicycle. It can be confusing. Our knowledgeable staff will work with you to ensure you choose the best bike for your everyday use. If you would like to familiarize yourself with a few key points, we have provided you with an article from the National Bicycle Dealer’s of America below:
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? Just for fun? Casually, or seriously? Where do you want to ride? Street, bike trail or off-road? How frequently do you plan to ride? The more you know what you want, the easier it will be to work with your local bike store to select a bicycle which will best suit your needs.
2. Find a good professional servicing bicycle dealer in your area. Many of the best belong to the National Bicycle Dealers Association, and display the NBDA membership sticker in their windows. Tell the professionals there what your desires are, and let them advise you on appropriate bicycles for your needs. Pick a store where you are comfortable, where you are treated with respect, and where they listen to you. Professional bicycle retailers 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 your needs. Visit NBDA’s online dealer finder to find a professional bicycle retailer near you.
3. At most bike stores, you’ll probably be seeing these kinds of bicycles:
4. The size of the bicycle is critical for comfortable riding. Work with your retailer 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 your bicycle dealer 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. Like a shirt, fit is very important for comfort and security.
5. 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 the bike store for advice on things you may not understand, such as quick-release operation, shifting, braking, maintenance, etc. If you want to find other local cyclists in your area to ride with, ask the shop for reference to clubs or organized rides. 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 ask your bike retailer if you have problems or questions. If you’re not receiving the kind of service you want, look for another retailer. There are 5,300 specialty bike stores in the United States, and the vast majority serve their customers with dedication and flair. When you find one, that store can be your greatest ally for enjoying the cycling experience.
Source: http://nbda.com/articles/hints-for-purchasing-a-bike-pg63.htm