Entering a bike shop as a newbie can feel bewildering. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of nodding and grinning blankly at an eager salesperson as they dump 20 metric tonnes of biking jargon on you, purely because you’re too shy to stop them and explain that they may as well be speaking Norwegian.
- Getting the right bike isn’t as simple as choosing one for your height – there are a lot of variables involved such as leg and torso length
- The reach is the most important measurement to get right because you can’t adjust the stem that much whereas the saddle can be moved up and down
- The best way to get the right size is to go and sit on a variety of bikes to try them out and work out what feels right
- Mountain bikes come in different types depending on the terrain you will be riding
- The Cycling Experts say to try and get the best bike you can afford because it will ultimately be a better investment in terms of quality components, features, durability and ride
Still in the dark? Save yourself a whole load of awk with these three helpful guides to how to choose a bike that’s right for you.
First up, a beginners’ guide to buying a road bike (AKA a ‘racing’ bike), guest-starring Olympian Oli Beckingsale.
How To Choose The Correct Size of Road Bike Frame by the Global Cycling Network
Next, Evans Cycles gives a clear, whistle-stop tour of the modern mountain bike.
Mountain BIke Buying Guide by Evans Cycles
Finally, to help you choose the right bike, here’s Halford’s guide to buying a hybrid – a beginner-friendly bike that’s part road bike, part mountain bike and part touring bike. (Warning: contains tightly-packed cycle shorts.)