These days, a lot of people are choosing a bike for transportation purposes. Cars have been the transport of choice through the years but the use of bike has become increasingly popular. More and more people are starting to ride bikes to work and school, in an effort to keep things “green” and to take care of our planet. The price for gas is also not cheap; choosing a bicycle for transportation can save you a lot of money. Besides, choosing a bike is choosing wellness. Riding a bike can be your major form of exercise excellent for burning those calories.

Choosing a bicycle that is right for you doesn’t have to be a complicated task. Of course, there are different bikes out in the market to choose from. But how will you know which bike is right for you?  There are several things you have to consider including the type of riding you will do and the type of bicycle that suits that riding style.

Types of Bike Riding

Knowing the different types of riding will help you in choosing a bicycle that’s right for you. Generally, the types of riding include:

• Recreation. Recreational biking means riding a bike mostly for leisure or part of your regular exercise. It is also known as leisure riding wherein people go for a ride to enjoy the park with your kids or your friends. This type of riding is usually short on flat and easy terrains. Speed is not a factor and so as the equipment and gears are not that important.
• Touring. Touring or long distance riding is best for exploring places. Touring or expedition bikes are mostly preferred for long journeys.
• Road Riding. Road riding is basically done on superior surfaces such as pavements. This type of riding is best for those who commute to work, ride for errands and for those who bike for exercise purposes. The road surface is generally not a problem so any kind of bikes could be used.
• Off Road Riding. Off road riding is usually done on dirt or rock trails and gravel roads. Country roads, dirt roads, off road trails are generally uneven and regular bikes are usually not up to the task. Choosing a bike that suits the terrain will make the adventure ride memorable and fun. Off road riding is also popularly known as mountain biking.
• Racing. Racing or competitive biking is a type of biking that needs a bike that’s built for its speed and performance. Organized races and charity rides often need bikes that have fixed rear gears for maximum speed. Choosing a bike for joining competitive races will depend on where it will be done. Basically, road bikes are best for triathlons but some triathlons are done in extreme terrains like mountain trails, so mountain bikes are more suitable.

Types of Bikes

There are several types of bicycles out in the market; each has its own uses and advantages. The following are some of the basic types of bicycles you get to choose from:

• Road Bikes. Generally, road bikes are characterized by their light frames and narrow tires great for long distance riding, commuting, racing and fitness riding. Road bikes are basically lighter in weight as compared to mountain and comfort bikes. When choosing a bike for its speed and performance, road bikes are on the top of the list.
• Mountain Bikes. Mountain bikes are basically the most popular type of bike for their comfort and durability. Mountain bikes are built with strong components suitable for rough terrains like mountain trails and dirt roads. Best for off road riding, mountain bikes became extremely popular because you can practically ride it anywhere.
• Hybrid Bikes. Hybrid bikes (also known as city bikes) have the features of both mountain bikes and road bikes combined. They are versatile enough so you can ride comfortably both for smooth pavements and rough roads.
• Touring Bikes. Touring bikes have eyelets for attaching racks for carrying cargo. These bikes are best for long distance journeys.
• Cruisers. Cruisers (also known as comfort t bikes) are old style bikes that place the rider in a very upright position for maximum comfort while cruising down the beach.
• BMX Bikes. BMX bikes are lightweight bikes perfect for doing stunts and tricks.
• Recumbent Bikes. A recumbent bike ultimately places a rider in a reclined position. It is generally a lot more expensive than your average bike but riding it will give you a better view of the surroundings.
• Electric Bikes. Electric bikes offer a battery-powered motor ideal for those who want to go work not wanting to arrive sweaty or out of breath.

Now you know the different types of bike riding and the different bikes for each riding purpose. You see, choosing a bike is easy — if you know what to look for.