
Cycling is a great way to have fun and stay fit at the same time. And for some people it’s just a great way to get around without the costs and environmental problems that come with driving a car. Buying a bike these days is easier than ever, there are global and independent shops, as well as all the new online retailers to choose from.
Sifting through all those reviews, sales and websites can be hard work though. It can become very time-consuming if you let it. Keep it simple and follow these top tips for buying and maintaining a new bike.
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New or Used?
Everyone’s budget will be slightly different, as will their wants and needs. If you’re on a budget, it can be a good idea to look at the used bike options out there. There are plenty of horror stories you can read, but it is a good choice for a lot of people. If you’re buying from an auction site, make sure you ask all the questions you need to before you bid.
Buying a new bike is a much safer option though. You can’t get any guarantees from a second-hand bike. It might not be what you expect and could break quickly. So, if your budget is big enough, buy new.
Do Your Research
No matter what type of bike you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find endless books and online resources which will provide you with up to date information. These resources can help you decide which kind of bike you want and which specific model is best for you.
You can do too much research though. Don’t rely exclusively on other people’s opinions. Although they can be valuable, there’s no better way of deciding than getting on a bike and trying it out for yourself.
Setting Up Your New Bike
Once you’ve got your bike, you need to set it up correctly and make sure all the settings are right for you. The first thing to check is your gears. Make sure they’re moving smoothly when you change them.
Then you’ll want to
adjust the height of your saddle. You know your saddle is in the right position when your leg is slightly bent when your foot is on the pedal at the lowest point. If you have to stretch to reach the pedal, your saddle’s too high. The height of your handlebars will also need adjusting to a comfortable position.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Bike
Looking after your bike is always important. But it’s true that it’s more important to some people than to others. Some people obsessively check and maintain it, and others just want to make sure it’s running smoothly. But remember to make repairs quickly when they need doing,
Circle City Bicycles can help you with bigger repair jobs.
There are a few must-do maintenance tips too. Your tires should be properly inflated at all times, so check their pressure levels regularly. You should also make sure your brake pads are in good condition, otherwise you could be heading for a crash. Add oil to your brakes if they start squeaking too.
It will need to be kept relatively clean. Exactly how clean you want to keep it is up to you. Some hot, soapy water will be enough to keep it in good shape. Use a small brush or toothbrush to get into all the nooks and crannies.
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