If you are planning on taking up road biking to improve your health and overall fitness, you should select and purchase the right bike. Your choice will determine your speed and efficiency on the road. Moreover, it will influence your personal comfort during use. Sometimes, people choose the wrong equipment, which can cause undue fatigue and distress. As a result, one might give up on the joys of road biking prematurely. Here are some simple guidelines to keep in mind for the ideal selection of a bike.
Compare the Frame Material
You should compare the frame materials used in contracting the road bikes on the market. The type of material will influence the durability of the equipment in harsh conditions. Also, some materials will provide more comfort than others. If you are looking for a basic bike, you can opt to acquire steel or aluminium framing. These materials are tough and will provide long-lasting service. Moreover, the cost of purchase is relatively low.
However, you should note that these hard materials do not have great shock absorption capabilities. Therefore, if you will be riding in adverse road conditions, you might feel some stress from vibrations. If you would like a bike with better protection, you should look into carbon fibre framing. The cost is higher, but you will be more comfortable when riding on rough surfaces. Additionally, inquire about titanium bikes if you are willing to splurge.
Think about Frame Sizing
It is important to acquire an appropriately-sized road bike. The sizing will influence your ease of pedalling and overall comfort on the road. If the bike is too large or too small, you will be under a lot of physical stress. This could result in repetitive strain injuries or even accidents. The frame sizes are indicated in the form of centimetres or generic standards like extra-large to extra-small. Ideally, you should discuss your needs with a specialist supplier. They can recommend a bike based on your proportions. Alternatively, you can look for a fit chart or calculator for road bikes.
Choose a Good Saddle
The saddle is a critical component which will affect your comfort when biking. Therefore, it is advisable to test out a few of the available options before making your decision. It is not uncommon for beginners to look for a saddle with a lot of padding for cushioning. However, the thickest seat is not always ideal. Instead, consider going for a saddle that conforms to the body such as a longer component with an incorporated cut-out.
