I Love Bicycling

I Love Bicycling is a website that is geared towards cycling for beginners with road cycling tips, training articles, nutrition tips, weight loss, how to’s and bike repair articles.

What size bike do I need?

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People come in all shapes and sizes, so it makes sense that bikes do to. It’s not impossible to make the wrong sized bike work for you, but it’s definitely easier to purchase a bike that is your size from the get-go.

When you’re first getting into cycling, it’s tempting to go with a second hand bike that’s the right price rather than the right fit. However, as great as it is to get discounted bikes, the problems begin when you actually start riding. From overall comfort and enjoyment to your own safety, having the right size bike can make all the difference.

If you’re looking to get into cycling, or don’t think your current bike is right for you, this guide will help you find the perfect fit.

What size bike do I need?

Decide what kind of bike you want

When it comes to buying a new bike, it can be overwhelming with all the options out there. First thing, you need to decide what type of bike you want. Are you going to be riding on trails, road, or a little bit of both? Generally speaking, there are two main types of bikes: road bikes and mountain bikes. However, within those types there is a wide range, as well as cross bikes that bridge the gap between the two. Sizing can differ dependent on the type of bike.

Why does bike size matter?

If you’re a casual rider and aren’t going out on long distance rides, bike size and a proper fit may not be a huge deal. But as the kilometers start to fly by the more you get into cycling, the millimeters of a bike frame start to matter. Why? There are three main reasons:

  1. Comfort – If you are uncomfortable on your bike, then you’re not going to want to ride it – sometimes it’s that simple. Feeling comfortable on a bike is your first step towards ensuring it is the right size for you.
  2. Injury prevention – If a bike frame is too big or too small for you, there are many issues that can come up. For example, if the bike is too big for you, your torso will be overextended, causing a rocking in the lower back that can lead to pain and serious injury. Cycling is one of the best types of exercise for you body, but if you don’t have the right bike, it cause more harm than good in the long run.
  3. Maximize efficiency – Who doesn’t want to go faster with less effort? Ensuring you are in the correct position on the right size bike helps you make the most of every rotation, as you won’t be wasting any energy.

How are bikes measured?

What size bike do I need?

There are two basic measurement systems: by size (small, medium, large) and by measurement (in centimetres). Both systems are based on the metal frame of the bike, as the added components (handlebars, saddles, etc) are interchangeable.

Generally, frames are measured by the distance from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube (see diagram below). However, the method of measurement can vary between manufacturers as they each have their own approach to bike design.

Bike sizing vs. bike fitting

They may sound like the same thing, but bike sizing and fitting are actually two entirely different things. For the sake of this article, we are focusing on bike sizing, which is fitting you, as a rider, to the bike.

An in-depth bike fitting is a great idea, but only once you have the base of your bike size. From there you can further adjust all the little things like handle bars, saddle, and pedal position – essentially fitting the bike to you.

How to determine your frame size

There are a ton of online calculators that can help you get an idea of your frame size, but won’t necessarily give you the whole picture. Two people can be the same height, while having different length legs and torso.

Bike size is determined by three main measurements:What size bike do I need?

  1. Your height – This is not the time to round up your 5”11 to 6”0, so be sure to get an accurate measure of your standing height.
  2. Inseam length – This refers to the distance from your crotch to the end of your pant leg and determines your standover height (so you can comfortably stand over the crossbar). You’ll need about 1-3 inches of wiggle room between the crossbar and your crotch.
  3. Your reach – Measured by the “Ape index,” your reach is your arm span compared to your height. It is calculated by subtracting your height from your arm span (measured from fingertip to fingertip).  If a positive number, your arm span is greater than your height (and perhaps you should pick up rock climbing). If a negative number, your height is greater than your arm span.

A general sizing guide

The following chart shows a general guide to bike sizing in regards to your height and inseam length.

What size bike do I need?

If you go into your local bike shop, they should help you with all these measurements and get you onto the appropriately sized bike, but it’s not a bad idea to go in with an idea of what will work for you. It’s not worth impulse buying the wrong size bike because it’s on sale or catches your eye! Make sure you take the time to try out a bike before buying when possible, and a thorough bike fitting is always a good idea.

The Best Balance Bike for Your Child

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Teaching your child to ride a bike is one of the most exciting experiences as a parent, and luckily training wheels are no longer the only option. Over the past few years balance bikes have become a popular option to get kids riding younger, and even skip the training wheels altogether.

If you don’t know what we’re talking about, balance bikes are two wheelers with no pedals and no training wheels, so the child uses their feet to propel themselves along.

Balance Bike vs Training Wheels

When your child first sees their new bike, the first thing they’re going to want to do is hop on. Training wheels do have the advantage here because the child can easily sit on the bike. However, their movement is limited and a lot of times pedals can be too much for them. On the other hand, balance bikes teach your child to balance on the bike (obviously), while at the same time using motor skills they have already learned with walking. It’s an added comfort for them to keep their feet close to the ground while learning, without having the pedals get in the way.

How to Teach Your Child To Ride a Balance Bike

Step 1: Stand and walk.

Step 2: Sit and walk.

Step 3: Sit, run, and balance.

Step 4: Sit, run, glide and explore!

Balance Bikes Make for an Easy Transition

There’s a bit of a trade off here, as with training wheels your child will have the pedaling motion down, but will have no concept of balance. This can be a tough transition because they will have to learn to keep the bike upright as well as deal with the inevitable falls.

If your child is transitioning from a balance bike to a pedal bike they will fall much less. They will have the natural instinct to save themselves with their feet when they begin to tip over.

The Best Balance Bike for Your Child

Most balance bikes are made for children ages 2-4, although they can start even younger than that- if they can walk they can ride! When choosing a balance bike, there are few things you’ll want to be looking out for. First are they tires, as direct and reliable feedback from the bikes steering will help your child feel more comfortable and in control. Avoid any hard plastic wheels unless the bike is only going to be used inside. The best choice would be rubber tires with pneumatic tubes, which offer the most traction and control on a variety of surfaces.

Next, there are the brakes. The original balance bikes did not have a brake, but some contemporary models now include a hand-operated rear brake. This can be a great option for added control, and learning how to use a brake, but isn’t necessary as many kids will still inevidiably choose to use their feet to slow down and stop rather than a brake.

Here are some of the best options when it comes to a balance bike for your child.

Woom 1

Image result for woom 1 balance bike

Price: $199

 

The woom 1 is great for kids anywhere from 18 months to 3 years old. It features air tires, a hand brake, a natural upright body position and added turning limiter. The woom 1 is also one of the lightest balance bikes on the market, making it easier for you child to use on their own.

Strider Sport

Image result for strider sport balance bike

Price: $99

The Strider Sport fits kids 18 months to 4 years, making it a great bike for your child to grow into. It has foam tires, making them maintenance free, but does not give the child as much cushioning or traction as rubber tires.

SE Bikes Micro Ripper

Image result for se bikes micro ripper

Price: $179

Not only does this balance bike look awesome, it was designed by former X-Games star Todd Lyons when he became a father. It has a traditional BMX stem and 16 spoke wheels, making it heavy, but great for kids who tend to be a little rough on their toys.

GOMO

Image result for gomo balance bike

Price: $49

Another budget friendly option with foam tires, the GOMO balance bike is great for kids age 2-4. It features a tucked away footrest, adjustable handlebars, and extended wheelbase that gives more room for the rider to move around.

Bixe 16

Image result for Bixe 16

Price: $69

If you have a child who is too old for the traditional balance bike (age 4-6), but is still struggling to learn to ride a bike, the Bixie 16 is a great option. With larger wheels, a larger frame, and air tires, it can be a great way to get your kid confident enough on two wheels before adding pedals.

How to Choose Your First Road Bike

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Are you ready to take the leap and buy your first road bike? You won’t regret it. Cycling is not just a sport, but a lifestyle as well. However, the idea of getting a bike, finding all the right gear, and riding for the first time can be intimidating. With the rise of cycling has come endless options when it comes to manufacturers and components, making it overwhelming the first time you walk into a bike shop.

Don’t be discouraged! Having a ton of options is actually a great thing, as it increases your chances of finding just the right bike for you. You just have to know a little about what you’re looking for.

How to Choose Your First Road Bike

 

Where to start

Rather than walking into a bike shop with no idea what you’re looking for, let’s start with you. Sit down and make a list beforehand: What features are important to you? What type of riding will you be doing most? Are you looking for a commuter bike? Could you use this bike for a race one day? Are you interested in bike touring? What is your price range?

It’s important to get the right bike as it has the potential to determine whether your fall in love with cycling, or deter you from it altogether. That being said, you also need to be honest with yourself. You may regret investing thousands into a bike that you only ride once a week, so map out how many miles you think you’ll be putting in, and also what your destination is at the end of those miles.

The Bike Frame

Material

The frame should be the first part of the bike you look at. There are four main materials from which frames are constructed: carbon fiber, aluminum, steel, or titanium. For a beginner bike, aluminum is the best bang for your buck because of its lightness as well as durability without the fragility and added cost of carbon fiber.

Steel bikes can give a good ride, as they’re not too stiff, but they can be heavy and are a bit dated. Carbon bikes are becoming much cheaper, but for a beginner bike they are a bit overkill as you don’t need the performance advantages of weight nor the detailed feel of how it rides. It’s easy to spot which frame types are which with a little practice and if you don’t know, ask.

Frame Size

How to Choose Your First Road Bike

Just because you are a certain height does not mean you can look at a chart and determine your ideal frame size. There are a lot of variables when selecting the proper frame, the most important being your reach which is affected by the length of the top tube. Your reach can only be adjusted slightly by different stem lengths so there is generally only a few centimetres of adjustability, whereas there is several inches of adjustability in the seat height or seat tube. For more information, check out “What size bike do I need.”

Components

After finding the frame that suits you, you will want to look at the components it comes with.

Chainrings and Cogs

How to Choose Your First Road BikeThere are two sets of sprockets on a bike, one at the front and one at the back. The front sprockets are called chainrings, and they’re located at the front on the crankset (the part that the pedals attach to). Typically, an entry level road bike will have a triple crankset (three chainrings), but some may have a double (two chainrings).

The sprockets at the rear of the bike are called cogs individually, or a cassette when referring to the whole cluster of gears. Most bikes will have 8-10 gears.

Now, don’t let the numbers scare you, but the key thing is to understand how gearing works. Chainrings and cogs are referred to by the number of teeth they have, which you can either count or look for the manufacturer’s number. For chain rings, the higher the number the easier it will be to pedal, but for cogs it’s just the opposite – the larger the number the easier it will be to pedal. So, for example, a 30/42/52 triple crankset and a 12-30 cassette will offer an easier gear than a 39/53 double crankset with a 12-23 cassette. Starting out you will want those easier climbing gears to build up strength and endurance.

The Best Brands

The two main brands of components that are descent, even at their lower end, are Shimano and Sram. Both of these then have upgrade capabilities which gives you a variety of options down the line. The best way to see how each level feels is to test ride them and then compare them to a model both up and down from it.

Wheels

With a beginner road bike, the wheels that come with the bike are typically going to be what you take home as it’s difficult to swap out wheelsets at a shop or on an online distributor. Things to look for are the spoke count in both the front and back, as well as the weight of the wheel. Depending on your weight and your use of the bike, the wheels will most likely have a spoke count of 32. They may be a little heavier than racing wheel, but they are also a lot more durable.

TiresHow to Choose Your First Road Bike

There are three main types of road bike tire setups: clincher, tubular, or tubeless. The most practical choice will be the classic clincher tire setup for its simplicity and ease of use. This does make you susceptible to pinch flats, but changing out a tube on the road is simple once you’ve done it a few times, it can even be done without tools!

This is just the base of what you’ll need to think about before buying your first road bike, and you will also have to consider the essentials (other than the bike) that you will need. For more information, check out our “Complete Guide to Cycling for Beginners.”

Buying a Used Bike? How to Know if a Bike was Stolen

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Buying a second hand bike can be a great option for a lot of people, but you want to make sure you aren’t buying a stolen bike unaware. Having your bike stolen is an awful experience, and by buying a bike no questions asked, you could be encouraging the behaviour just because it’s a good deal.

There are some red flags that you should look for when buying a second hand bike, and also some great ways for you to try to reunite the bike with its original owner if you think it is stolen.

Is the price too good to be true?

If the bike is stolen, a lot of times the thief is looking for a quick sell to get it out of their hands. If you don’t know a lot about bikes yourself, do some research on the make and model of the bike and what similar second hand bikes are selling for in your area. If this one is way below the average asking price, then there might be something going on.

Are there photos of the bike itself?

How to know if a bike is stolen

Sometimes sellers can be a bit lazy, and stock photos may be used in an online ad, but in a lot of cases this can be a way to avoid the bike being recognized. If there are only stock photos within the ad, email the seller and ask to see some photos of the bike.

Is the ad lacking detail?

This can go for both the ad and seller themselves. If things are kept overly vague, this is a red flag. Often when someone has their bike stolen, they will be looking online for it to show up for sale, so many thieves will keep the ad as broad as possible. The make and model of the bike should be included in the ad, and the seller should at least have an email or phone number listed.

Check the serial number

How to know if a bike is stolen
Places to look for the serial number.

If the seller won’t give you the bike’s serial number, walk away. The serial number can be checked within databases like Bike Index or Bike Register, so if the bike has been registered as stolen you can then take steps to involve the police. If the serial number has been filed off or covered in any way, this is also a sure sign that the bike was stolen.

Ask questions

You can never ask too many questions, and not just to check if the bike was stolen. Ask about any maintenance or work done on the bike over the past few years, and ask for the reason behind any mismatched parts. Is this a bike that would even fit the seller? Where is their favourite area to ride? If they don’t know much about the bike, or cycling in general, then that could be another red flag.

When it comes to taking a look at and even buying the bike, always pick a public place to meet and take someone with you. Don’t pay cash, but instead pay through something that can be traced like Paypal or an e-transfer, and get the seller’s name and phone number.

Buying a second hand bike is a great option, but you don’t want to buy a bike, only to realize it was stolen and be left with an empty wallet and no bike. So, do your homework ahead of time, and ask questions before even meeting up to look over the bike. Investing in insurance for your bike could also be a good idea.

If you do suspect a bike is stolen, contact your local authorities immediately!

Why You Need to Try Fat Biking

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Do you remember the first time you saw a fat bike? On first impression, it is easy to think they look like some weird fad that will come and go. However, the past few years have proven that this isn’t the case. Gaining in popularity, fat biking has become a category all in its own.

The obvious advantage of a fat bike is the ability to ride in snow and sand more easily that with a regular mountain bike. No matter how funny you think they may look, it’s worth giving a try. Maybe fat really is the new skinny.

Why You Need to Try Fat Biking

What is fat biking?

A fat bike is an off road bicycle designed to accommodate oversized tires, typically 3.8 inches or larger. The first thing you’ll notice, other than the massive tires, is the wide fork build to fit the large tires as well as the low ground pressure. These tires can be run as low as 5 psi to provide the ultimate traction in snow, sand, or mud.

Although the general idea of fatbiking has been around since the early 1900s, they first became commercially popular with Surly Bike’s release of the Pugsley frame in 2005. The rest, as they say, is history.

Why you should try fat biking

It’s a great workoutWhy You Need to Try Fat Biking

Staying fit over the winter in places where it gets cold and snowy is tough. If you love the freedom that cycling brings, it can be hard to find the motivation to go to the gym or hop on a stationary bike. Fatbiking not only allows you to ride outside all winter, but it’s also a great workout. In soft conditions it can be tough going, but you will be expending a ton of energy in a short about of time. You will also be working on your balance and core strength making a great whole body workout. Come spring and hop back on your regular bike, you’ll feel light and fast, and you’ll have maintained a great fitness level.

It gets you outside

No need to mope around the house as soon as there’s snow on the ground. Fat bikes are like the monster trucks of the cycling world – they will get you through just about anything. Getting out in the sunshine and fresh air, even if it’s cold, is the best way to make the most of every season. Research has also shown that the cold can actually raise your metabolism as your body works to keep warm, which means burning extra calories!

Why You Need to Try Fat BikingIt builds your endurance

Fat biking will make you a stronger rider and build your endurance, both physically and mentally. Riding in the elements on a bike that requires constant spinning (there’s pretty much no coasting) will up your overall toughness level. Plus, if you ever hit a race in your regular season that has bad weather, it’ll be nothing compared to your miles put in with the snow and mud.

You can ride a fat bike all year round

There are those that choose to ride a fat bike all year due to the feeling of the bike, particularly the stability and suspension of the fat tires. Many models can also accept multiple wheel sizes, so you can switch out your tires for skinnier ones before hitting the dry single track.

How to choose a fat bike

With the rise in popularity, the variety of fat bikes available has made choosing one a little more complicated. Although we can give you the basic features to look out for, a visit to your local bike shop will help you make a more informed decision. It’s also great to try one out before buying to ensure you enjoy the feel of it.

  • Frame capability – Think about how much “flotation” you want. Generally speaking there are two sizes: those that accommodate 4 inch Why You Need to Try Fat Biking ires, and those for 5 inch or wider tires. If you’re sticking to groomed or somewhat packed down trails, 4 inch tires will be all you need.
  • Rigid frame or suspension – Most fat bikes are a rigid frame as the tires and low pressure make up for the lack of suspension, but many are now also equipped with a suspension fork. Going with a frame with suspension can be a great option for really rough terrain, or if you plan on riding the bike all year round.
  • Frame size – As with any bike, you want to ensure you get the right size for you, and it’s always worth having a proper bike fit to ensure maximum efficiency. Most frames are set up with similar geometry to a mountain bike to remain stable over rough terrain.
  • Tires – As with road and mountain bike, fat bike tires can come in a variety of designs. Most are either clincher or tubeless. You’ll also want to take a look at size. The general size is 4 inches, but there are both smaller and larger tires available depending on the terrain you’ll be riding.
  • Brakes – If you’re planning on riding in the Arctic, or anywhere else that experiences freezing temperatures, then you’ll want to go with the basic mechanical, cable-actuated disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes are a great option, but only if you’re sticking to warmer climates as mineral oil can easily freeze.

Check out this list of the top ten best fat bikes for more information.

Fat biking really has become it’s own sport, and with good reason. It’s as much fun as it looks, and there are a ton of events that now incorporate fat bikes to get you through the long cold winters. Additionally, many bikepackers are choosing fat bike frames to widen their adventure possibilities. Check out the video below for some added inspiration to get you going.

Best of Both Worlds: The Best Hybrid Bikes

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A hybrid bike is just what it sounds like – a cross between a road and a mountain bike. Versatile in nature, the best hybrid bikes can be used over a variety of terrain and are popular with commuters and casual cyclists. The flat handlebars on a hybrid bike offer a more upright position that can minimize the strain that can come from the more aerodynamic position on a road bike.

Not all hybrid bikes are created equal, and there is a lot of variety within the hybrid category. Some are designed more as a road / cruiser hybrid, whereas other are mountain / touring hybrids. So, you need to define what kind of riding you’re looking to do, and decide the best hybrid for your needs from there.

The Best Hybrid Bikes

The Benefits of a Hybrid Bike

  • More terrain – Most hybrids are suited to go off or on road, so this gives you more options for your weekend adventure or daily commute.
  • Wide tires – A hybrid can have a selection of fairly wide tires, which aids comfort and allows for various levels of off-road riding.
  • Comfortable fit – A hybrid’s horizontal bars provide a more relaxed, upright, and comfortable riding posture.
  • More gears – Hybrids typically have gears similar to a mountain bike, so riding hills shouldn’t be a struggle.
  • Easy to customize for commuters – Most standard hybrids are fitted for racks and mudguards, making it a popular choice for commuters.
  • Overall flexibility – Hybrids package quality and a variety of features at an affordable price. For a cyclist who rides slightly rough trails, flat city roads, bike paths, and the occasional sidewalk, the hybrid meets most purposes halfway.

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Mountain / Touring Hybrid

Specialized – CrossTrail Elite Alloy

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $1000

The CrossTrail features an aluminum frame, plenty of tire clearance, a 60mm travel suspension fork, hydraulic disk brakes, and wheels and tires that are on the heavy-duty end of the road spectrum. It’s a perfect fit for commuting, light touring, urban and rural riding, and even light trail riding. Although the fork may not be on par with the average mountain bike, it certainly takes the edge off on rough terrain.

Cannondale Quick CX 3

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $870

Built for pavement one day and dirt the next, the Cannondale Quick series features tough frames and quality components. The CX 3 is the middle of the road option, with a 50mm fork with lockout. Overall it handles well and is durable, but is quite heavy for the commuter or urban adventurer.

Diamondback Haanjo

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $899

Part mountain bike, part road bike, the Haanjo is designed to leave to choice up to you. Although it may not be ready to hit any technical trails, the Gravel Disc alloy fork will have you easily tackling gravel roads and dirt paths. The Haanjo features butted and formed aluminum tubing to bring together a combination of light weight, strength, and durability. The mechanical disc brakes offer some serious stopping power, and the big tires will have you rolling through the rough patches.

Road / Commuter Hybrid

Bianchi Strada

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $800

Based off the popular steel frame cyclocross bike, The Volpe, the Bianchi Strada is one of the smoothest hybrids out there. With a classic design and all steel frame, there is tire clearance for a up to a 38c tire (a great option for bad weather riding). The Strada has cantilever brakes which are less powerful than disc brakes, but are much easier to maintain. Like most hybrids, there are mounts for racks and fenders, but there are also mounts for front panniers.

Trek FX 3

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $819

The Trek FX brings together the speed of a road bike with the comfort of a city commuter. Also known as a fitness bike, the FX is lightweight, fast, fun, and agile. The aluminum frame comes rack and fender ready, with the added DuoTrap S, which integrates a Bluetooth sensor into the frame. You can easily log routes and track your progress with a computer or smartphone, with no external sensor.

Diamondback Insight 1

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $449

Uncomplicated comfort and easy on the budget, the Insight series is a perfect entry in the hybrid world. The aluminum frame is lightweight and durable, and will hold up on winding urban streets and rougher roads alike.

Carbon Hybrids

Felt Verza

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $1599

With a lightweight carbon frame inspired by Felt’s line of road racing bikes, the Verza Speed 3 comes complete with Shimano’s Metrea group for smooth shifting and modern aesthetics. It is capable as a commuter, a weekend cruiser, or a workhorse for group rides, giving you the freedom to define what kind of rider you want to be.

Fuji Absolute Carbon

The Best Hybrid Bikes

Price: $1699

This C5 carbon frame provides incredible light weight and efficiency with VRTech built in to reduce road vibration. Its full-carbon fork keeps you on locked on track and includes hidden fender mounts, while the aluminum wheels keep the rolling weight low and easily handle rough roads. You pay the price for the carbon frame, but it could be worth it if you are a serious cyclist looking for something a bit more flexible than your road racing bike.

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

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You may have seen them around your city, cruising along like they haven’t a care in the world. Coming out in fleets around beaches in the summertime, cruiser bikes offer a different take on cycling as a means to urban adventure. No, it won’t replace your carbon road bike anytime soon, but they are a ton of fun.

The beauty of cruiser bikes is simplicity– they’re relaxed and casual in both design and essence. Cruiser bikes are designed for those who want a comfortable ride, functionality, and, of course, to look good while riding. You may not get anywhere fast, but you can hop on, take in the scenery, and see where you end up.

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Things To Look For In A Cruiser Bike

  • Gears – Many cruiser bikes are single speed, meaning that you’ve got one gear to get you around. This might be fine if you’re routes will be largely on flat terrain, but can be an issue if you hit a hill. So, if you want more flexibility from your cruiser you’ll want to get a multi-speed.
  • Coaster Brakes vs Hand Brakes – The coaster brake is featured on classic single speed cruisers. While they may have freewheeling abilities, when back-pedalled they will engage the brake after a fraction of a revolution. Hand brakes are what you may be more accustomed to from road or mountain biking.
  • Steel vs Aluminum Frame – Steel frames can be a great budget-friendly option, but they are slightly heavier and are more susceptible to rust than their aluminum counterparts. So, if you don’t mind spending a little more, aluminum will probably be the better option, as they are more durable and are often equipped with higher quality components.
  • Style – It’s okay to admit it, how attractive the bike looks will weigh into your decision. So, think about what you want from a cruiser. Do you want it to be subtle and functional, or colorful with a basket and tassels? From chopper styles to the traditional curvy design, there are a ton out there to choose from.

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Price: $165

This classic curvy design is available in a single or three speed cruiser, boasting a smooth and simple ride. Sized for women from 5-6 feet tall, it makes for a smooth ride with aluminum wheels and a slight curve in the fork that helps with steering and shock absorption. The single speed option makes for a simple ride, with no cables hanging off the bike, and you can maintain a consistent cruising speed from 3 to 15 miles per hour.

Huffy Nel Lusso Women’s Cruiser Bike

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Price: $118

This classic steal frame includes matching fenders, a rear luggage rack, a kickstand, a front basket, and even a cupholder. For someone looking to invest in their first cruiser, the Huffy Nel Lusso is function, plus it looks great. There is only a single speed available.

Schwinn Men’s Sanctuary

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Price: $152

The Schwinn Sanctuary 7 cruiser equipped with a Schwinn steel cruiser frame and fork for comfortable riding, the full fenders help keep the water off you in the rain and the rear rack can be used for carrying cargo. The Shimano 7 speed rear derailleur with twist shift makes for simple quick gear shifting–the best of both worlds.

Sixthreezero Beach Cruiser Bicycle

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Price: $299

Where sophistication meets functionality. Build around a sturdy steel frame, the cruisers handlebars are extended outwards a little more than most models. This creates an even more relaxed riding position, and easy handling. There are single, three, and seven speed version available of this model.

Critical Cycles Chatham Men’s Beach Cruiser

5 Of The Best Cruiser Bikes

Price: $219

Inspired by the dawn of feel-good surfer culture, Critical Cycles new beach cruiser line is streamlined for little to no maintenance and impressively straightforward riding. Available in single, three, and seven speeds, the Chatham is practically unstoppable. With a hand-built steel frame, cushy grips on high handlebars, and a classic surf paint job, you’ll be riding around on an impressively comfortable and shock-absorbent cruiser.

If you’re looking for a simple commuter, or a way to get to the beach next summer, a cruiser bike is a great option. Not only do that look really cool, but they a ton of fun to ride. For more on commuter bikes, check out “The Best Commuter Bike – Matching Your Needs to a Bike.”

The Best Entry Level Road Bike

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Best entry level road bike

So, you’re looking to invest in your first road bike. It can be tough to know how to buy your first bike; how much to spend or which features really matter. Do you really need a lightweight carbon frame if you never plan on racing? How important are those components, and what, exactly, do they do?

The first thing you should do is come up with a budget. What is the most you’re willing to spend? From there you can begin your search for your perfect ride. It can be tempting to stay on the low end of your budget, but when it come to bikes, you get what you pay for.

That being said, there are some great budget options from established road bike manufacturers. You want to find that perfect combination of comfortable geometry and fast design to keep you smiling as you put in the miles.

Here are 5 of the best entry level road bikes out there.

Specialized Allez E5 Sport

Best entry level road bike

Price: $970

The perfect combination of fast and comfortable, the Specialized Allez E5 Sport brings you the best of both worlds. The stiff design is well thought out with attention to detail, and it’s sturdy handling will have you tackling those sketchy descents in no time.

The quality aluminum frame is accompanied by flawless component choices. With a full Shimano Sora drivetrain it makes for flawless shifting across a wide range cassette. The 28.2mm tire width easily soaks up the road and makes for a smooth and comfortable feel. Weighing in at 9.41kg, the Allez E5 tops the list for the most bang for your buck with plenty of room for you to grow as a cyclist.

Cannondale CAAD8 Sora 7

Best entry level road bike

Price: $790

CAAD series has been constantly perfected over the past decade to bring you the Sora 7. This frame offers great acceleration with pinpoint accuracy on downhills, and the Head’s Up Race geometry has you a slightly more upright and comfortable position.

As much the frame nails down all important features, the components are left somewhat lacking. The FSA crank works of course, but is slow in comparison to the Shimano Sora, and the narrow 12-27t cassette can be limiting.

Trek Domane AL2

Best entry level road bike

Price: $750

You can’t make a list of “top 5 bikes” and not include a Trek model. They are constantly pushing the boundaries in search of that sweet spot between racing-level efficiency and touring comfort. With the Domane series, they offer both men’s and women’s models for that perfect fit.

With a carbon fork on an aluminum frame, the AL2 quite literally combines the elements of the higher-end models with an affordable, simple frame geometry. The carbon fork offers a smooth ride over even uneven surfaces, making it the perfect for commuting or heading out for long rides in all weather conditions. With the Shimano Claris drivetrain, you’re guaranteed a smooth and responsive ride well under the $1000 mark.

Giant Contend 1

Best entry level road bike

Price: $810

To sum up the Contend 1 in a word: balance. As mash-up between the previously popular TCR and Defy entry-level models, this bike gets the job done. An efficient climber and stable on descents, it may not have you feeling like an unstoppable mountain conqueror, but it will get you there safely and comfortably.

With an aluminum frame and those quality Shimano Sora components, you can be confident on any grade and those rougher surfaces. With more upright positioning, you’ll have a smooth ride whether on your daily commute or out for a long distance weekend ride.

Felt F95

Best entry level road bike

Price: $790

If you’re a beginner cyclist, but have racing in your sights, then the Felt F95 may be your best option. As the most race-ready of the bunch, the F95 is the highly responsive with a stiff aluminum frame and a performance level carbon fork.

With a slightly more aggressive position, it’s great for charging up those hills and settling in for long distances, but can be somewhat uncomfortable for the less experienced rider. That being said, if you want to grow into your first bike, this one packs a whole lot of punch for the price point.

Cycling For Beginners

Need some extra tips on riding? I Love Bicycling has put together a complete guide to cycling for beginners here.

How an E-Bike renewed a love of cycling

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E-bike-couple-photoRediscover your love of Cycling with an e-bike

Who should ride an E-Bike?

An e-bike is a good idea for people who find it hard to ride a regular bike. People who are older, overweight, injured or with compromised health and fitness may find that this is the only way that they can ride a bicycle.

E-bikes are strong and weigh more than a regular bike. There is the extra weight of the motor and battery and the frame has to be strengthened.

Utility E-bikes are a new development. These are perfect for when you use your bike to carry heavy loads. The pedal-assist really helps to carry the load.

An E-Bike for Shelly

electric city bikeRecently I was at a dinner with friends. I was sharing the story of my afternoon ride. A 34km long climb in the hills above Kelowna on a hot day with smoke from forest fires blanketing the area.

One of the guests become excited and shared her story of her return to cycling. Shelly is in her 50’s and lives in Calgary, Alberta. She had become fed up with the long delays on her drive to work. She had cycled when she was younger but had not owned a bike for 20 years and was nervous about buying a bike. Shelly did not feel that she was fit enough to pedal a bike to work.

Shelly walked into a bike shop and told them why she wanted a bike and what worried her cycling. She was shown an electric bike and fell in love with it. Now Shelly commutes to and from work on her e.bike. Her love of cycling has been rekindled. Now she is ready to buy a road bike and feels fit enough to pedal a bike with her human power.

E-bikes keep this couple cycling into their 70’s

cycling in portugal on an e-bikeI know a couple in their 70’s who have cycled all their lives. They loved to do cycle tours in Spain and Portugal in Europe.

Catherine and Chris had developed some health issues which forced them to slow down. Having the energy to pedal a regular bike up and down hills became impossible.

For a few years they had to stop cycling altogether. A friend suggested an electric bike. They bought a pair of e-bikes and found that they could cycle again.

Catherine told me that the extra power helped them zip up any hills. Not only can they do all the rides that they used to do. They can go now further and have explored mountainous areas previously too hard for them.

What is an E-Bike?

An E-bike provides extra power when you are pedalling by using an electric motor. Most e-bikes won’t give any power when you are not pedalling.

Most newer models power the crank arms, putting direct power into the pedals. This is called pedal assist. E-bikes are usually limited by law to 25km/hr or 15 mph.

City and Road E-bikes

raleigh-redux-e-bikeA town bike with electric assist. The flat handlebars give a more upright position that can be easier for new cyclists and those with limited flexibility.e-bike for road cyclingElectric bike with drop handlebars from Giant. This design gives the closest experience to riding a standard road bike. Suitable for those who have enough range of motion to comfortably place their hands in the drops.

Mountain E-Bike and a Fat Bike with Electric Assist

felt_Nine-mountain-e-bikeAn electric mountain bike. Designed for trails, bike paths and exploring off road.e-bike with fat tires for snow and iceAn electric Fat Bike. Super strong with fat tires. Perfect for riding in winter and for heavier people.

Utility and Delivery E-Bike

Green+Delivery e-bike +PizzaA delivery bike with an insulated box large enough for an 18″ Pizza. Read more at Juiced Bikes. You can also but Utility or Cargo Bikes with an electric motor to assist with moving the load.

Would you Consider an E-Bike?

What do you think of E-Bikes ? Are they destroying the sport of cycling, or are they a great idea for people who do not have the strength, flexibility and fitness levels for regular cycling ?

Visit electric bike for a great guide to buying an e-bike. Please give us your feedback, this really helps us to improve our site.

5 Cheap Mountain Bikes Of Quality

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Why would someone spend several hundred dollars on a cheap mountain bike versus less than $200 from their local department store? Well the answer is simple to bike enthusiasts, but maybe not as clear for the average consumer shopping for cheap mountain bikes. Hopefully the reasoning below will persuade you to buy a bike from your local bike shop and not the big chain department store. After you’re convinced to purchase a quality mountain bike, several of the top 5 cheap mountain bikes will be listed below as a guide to aide in your decision making process.

cheap mountain bikes

You Get What You Pay For

There are countless horror stories of accidents that have happened because someone was riding a cheap department store mountain bike. These accidents and consistent frustrations are caused by two main reasons. First, a cheap department store bike is going to use the cheapest possible aluminum and metal. Under stress, this super cheap metal causes the products to bend and break after very little use. Once these parts begin to break or not function properly, you will be forced to take the bike to your local bike shop and pay for repairs. These repairs will NOT be cheap if you purchased the bike from a department store and didn’t purchase the bike from them. Also, most local bicycle shops offer free tune-ups and repairs for a quite a long time if a bike is purchased from them. A great perk when tune-ups and repairs typically range from $75-$150!

The second significant reason a cheap mountain bike from a department store is a terrible idea, are the “mechanics” that build these cheap mountain bikes. The word mechanic is used very loosely in this sense considering most of these people have not been properly trained or went to school for bicycle maintenance. The department store employees are typically paid by the amount of bikes built, so you can imagine how well they are put together. At your local bike shop there is a far greater chance you will get an employee that truly cares and is not concerned with building the most number of bikes possible in a given amount of time.

Top 5 Cheap Mountain Bikes

Bulls Cobra Disk 29

bulls bike

This made our Top 5 Cheap Mountain Bikes list because it is a lightweight aluminum 29er, that is stiff, lightweight, and capable of anything. This bike is outfitted with a combination of Shimano XT and Deore. It is 10-speed, and has a 100mm front fork. This mountain bike’s geometry is best suited for cross-country, marathon riding because it is a hard tail making it extremely efficient climbing and nimble enough to handle technical descents.

Price: $899

Polygon Bikes Siskiu29 6

This is an aluminum 29er cross-country mountain bike and is “specially designed to roll over obstacles with greater ease and float up over obstructions without much effort to the rider”. The frames cables are internally routed, not a common addition to find with a lower priced mountain bike. This bike has Shimano Deore 20 Speed, a common group of components on this level of a mountain bike. It has an 11-36 cassette, meaning it can make climbing hills easy and still have an enough to push you on the flats. This is a great mountain bike for a rider looking to get into mountain biking and potentially do a couple local races to test the waters.

Price: $850-$900

GT Verb Comp

This 27.5 full suspension mountain bike is built for playing and having fun with your buddies. This bike has 120mm of front suspension and an adjustable rebound rear air shock. This bike is decked out with Deore components, disk brakes, and wide handlebars for more technical descending.

Price: $1,080-ish depending upon build.

Giant Talon 29er

This is one of the most common cheap mountain bikes purchased, it is a hardtail 29er has a 3×9 drivetrain and Tektro hydraulic disk brakes. The 100mm Suntour front fork has a lockout option and preload adjuster. This bike is equipped with Maxxis tires and a KMC chain. This bike is ideal for the rider looking to ride more gentle trails and just begin to explore the world of mountain biking.

Price: $850

Norco Bigfoot 6.3 Rigid

 

How could we leave off a more affordable fat bike? Fat bikes are growing very popular, especially in places that have harsh winters. This rigid fat bike is a great starter bike. It is an aluminum frame and 1×10 Deore drivetrain. It has mechanical disk brakes and alloy 80mm rims, greater for people just beginning to experiment with fat mountain biking.

Price: $899

 

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