Whether it’s your first, second or tenth time buying a new bicycle, the same few things must be considered before parting with your cash. Admittedly not as large a purchase as a new car or house, buying a bike is still an investment you will hope to get a lot of use out of. For that reason it’s important to make sure it’s right for you.
Is It Suitable?
Think about what you intend to use your new bike mainly for. If it’s for commuting to work in an urban area then a road bike is best. For getting out in the wild then a mountain bike would be more suitable, while for having a bit of reckless fun then a BMX is the one. Don’t buy a slender road bike if you live out in the country and have to go down bumpy paths before you get to smoother roads.
Will It Last?
Do some research and look into the bicycle manufacturer’s reputation beforehand to see if there are any common problems people encounter with the model you’re interested in. This should give an insight into how good quality the bike is and how long it will last for. If you’re using it every day then, like with a car, you need reassurance it’s not going to break down every other week.
Is It the Right Size?
Ordering a bike online can be cheap but doesn’t allow you to test it out and see if it’s the right size. Depending on what type of bike you’re buying the appropriate size differs. A good test is that when sitting on the seat you shouldn’t be flat footed but your toes should be touching the floor. If you’re buying from a shop ask if you can have a short test ride (although some places will say no).
Is It the Right Price?
Higher quality bikes come at a higher price, but if you intend to use it a lot then this can pay off. Road and racing bikes such as the ones available through Fat Birds can vary in price significantly. If you’re a serious rider then investing a lot more is worth it, but if it’s just for easy rides to work or at the weekend then opt for a bike at the lower end of the price scale. Whatever you choose should come with a decent guarantee.