Bike Buying Guide

Summer is Cycling Season! The bike paths are beckoning and the mountain trails are primed - so why not get the whole family pedaling in style? That great weather won’t last forever, so don’t waste a second of it inside (or behind a windshield)! Bicycling is a wonderful low-impact way to burn calories, improve the cardiovascular system and develop lower body muscles. On top of that, it’s a fantastic way to get around! Why take a drive in the country when you can make the trip under your own power - and get a lot more fresh air in the bargain? Take the road less traveled and turn that dull commute to work into an invigorating early morning ride. Depending upon your city’s layout, it might even take you less time! The sun smiles on cyclists, so leave the car in the driveway whenever you can - you’ll feel better, save a fortune in gas and avoid that scorching hot upholstery!

Of course, none of that wonderful activity will be possible without the proper equipment. That’s where this guide comes in. No matter what you’ve got planned for your family’s summer of cycling, you’ll find all the best bikes and accessories for your needs right here! Browse through bikes for men, women and kids, conveniently arranged by type and price range! Keep your bike running smoothly with maintenance tools and advice. Make sure everyone rides safe and sound with crucial protective gear. Customize your bike for the adventure to come with accessories of every description - and make sure it stays right where you left it with a wide range of storage and security options. So what are you waiting for? Let’s shift into high gear and get you all set for the summer!

Once you learn how to buy a bike... You never forget

Aside from budget considerations (which are always extremely important), the key thing to ask yourself, as a prospective bike buyer, is: where will I be doing most of my riding? If you’re planning to stick to city streets or municipal bike paths, you’ll want to pick up an all-purpose commuter model. If you’ve got an adventurous streak, and want to take things off-road, a mountain bike is the choice for you! If you yearn to test your pedaling mettle against other cyclists, you’ll want to bring a racing bike to the starting line. Whatever option you choose, there’s an affordable option waiting for you below!

1) Commuter, Comfort or Hybrid Bicycles

If you’re looking for pure functionality on the roads and bike paths - a commuter model will take you where you want to go! Also called “utility” or “all-purpose” bikes, these vehicles are ideal for jaunts to the office, delivery work, running errands or leisurely trips along riverside paths. Most commuter bikes feature extra-padded seats, wider handlebars, and are designed to place the rider in the most ergonomically beneficial position. Is it any wonder they are sometimes known as “comfort bikes”? With the focus on support, sturdiness and safety, rather than high-speed performance or maximum gear-shifting potential, a commuter bike is the perfect choice for people who just want to get out and enjoy some moderate physical exercise under the sun.

One important factor to consider before making your purchase: one bike size most definitely does not fit all! Make sure to choose the bike that is appropriate to your height. Follow these guidelines (applicable to both men and women) in determining the optimal frame size for you:

- 4’9” to 5’1” (46cm - 48cm frame)
- 5’1” to 5’3” (48cm - 50cm frame)
- 5’3” to 5’5” (50cm – 52cm frame)
- 5’5” to 5’7” (52cm – 54cm frame)
- 5’7” to 5’9” (54cm – 56 cm frame)
- 5’9 to 5’11” (56cm – 58cm frame)
- 5’11” to 6’1” (58cm – 60cm frame)
- 6’1” to 6’3” (60cm – 62cm frame)

1.1) Men's Commuter Bikes

Commuter bikes for men come in a wide range of styles and price points - and are manufactured by trusted brand names like Jamis, Schwinn, Supercycle and Free Spirit. Generally built out of steel or sturdy, reinforced aluminum, some of the less expensive models can be had for less than $200. For extra functionality, companies like Jamis have developed various “hybrid” models that combine the all-purpose utility of a commuter bike with the more situation-specific performance standards of a mountain or racing bike. These bicycles can sell for anywhere from $400 to more than $1000, depending upon the number of features included.

1.2) Women's Commuter Bikes

Women’s commuter (or “comfort”) bikes are available in just as rich a variety of styles and price ranges as their male counterparts. This is not to say that the two categories are interchangeable. Bicycles are not generally unisex items (although there are exceptions to this rule): men’s and women’s bikes have very different frames, and are designed that way to promote each individual rider’s comfort. CCM, Nakamura, Jamis and Schwinn are among the most popular makers of these types of bikes. Durable, practical commuter bikes for women can be purchased for as little as $200. Women’s “hybrid bikes” - designed to combine the utility of a commuter bike with the efficiency of sportier bikes - range in price from $200 to $800.

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1.3) For Boys & Girls

Get the whole family up to speed this summer with bikes for the kids! No matter how old your children are, you’ll find the perfect mini-vehicle here! For less than (often much less than) $100, you can get a 12” bike (the measurement refers to wheel size) for the tiniest cyclist in your life. These bikes generally come with detachable training wheels, to keep your little ones safe as they learn the ropes (or should that be spokes?). You can make things extra fun for your novice rider by purchasing themed bikes by Disney, Marvel, Hot Wheels and others!

Children’s bikes are cheaper because they have to be replaced fairly often. As your youngsters grow, they’ll need wheels that keep pace with their development. Here’s a handy growth chart to guide both your current selection and your family bike buying budget over the next few years:

- Age 2-4 (12” wheel)
- Age 4-6 (16” wheel)
- Age 6-10 (20” wheel)
- Age 10-13 (24” wheel)

For children over the age of 12 (or over 4’9”) consult the adult chart in the introduction to the Commuter/Hybrid buying section.

2.) Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes are rugged vehicles designed to help you go anywhere. If you’re planning on leaving paved roads behind - these are the bicycles for you!

Thanks to special features like flat-resistant, traction-treaded tires, easy-grip handles and powerful brakes, you’ll be bouncing up and down those tough hills and country trails without a care. As with commuter bikes, mountain bikes come in a range of sizes, and it’s important that you purchase a vehicle that will accommodate you perfectly. Use the guide below to correlate your height to the appropriate frame size:

- 4’9” to 5’2” (13”-16” frame)
- 5’2” to 5’8” (15”-18” frame)
- 5’9” and up (19”-22”)

2.1) Men's Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes are extremely popular with modern cyclists, and come in a vast array of models and price ranges - courtesy of top brand names like Supercycle, CCM, Schwinn, Nakamura and others. Generally built out of high-tensile steel and often featuring lifetime guarantees on frame integrity (always ask your dealer about manufacturer or retailer warranties), entry level mountain bikes can be purchased for as little $150. Depending on your budget and shock absorption needs, you might want to investigate some of the more rugged front suspension models, which can sell for anywhere from $300 to well over $2000.Full suspension models, which feature ultra-durable, lightweight frames and other vital components designed for serious trail riding, are your best bet when biking on ultra-hazardous terrain.

2.2) Women's Mountain Bikes

Women’s mountain bikes, sometimes called “freestyle bicycles”, come in a wide range of makes and price ranges. Some of the more popular manufacturers of these bikes include: Schwinn, CCM, Nakamura, K2 and Jamis. Women’s mountain bikes can sell for as little as $100, while some of the more robust front- and full-suspension models can range from $150 all the way to the vicinity of $1000.

Specialty Bikes

3.1) Road Racing Bikes

When its speed that you need, rather than comfort or trail-worthiness, a racing/road bike is the selection for you! Designed for maximum efficiency and aerodynamic performance, these bikes generally place the rider in a less comfortable, more crouched posture, and are not recommended for leisurely jaunts. Racing bikes are built with ultra-light weight aluminum, and feature tires that are specially adapted to reduce rolling resistance. Diamondback and Jamis are among the most popular racing bike manufacturers. These high-performance vehicles can sell for as little as $300 or as much as $10,000 - it all depends upon how much you’re willing to spend to get a pedal up on the competition!

3.2) Folding Bikes

For the ultimate in portable convenience, a folding bike is the go-to selection. They won’t fit in your pocket, but these collapsible vehicles won’t take up too much room on the bus or subway, if you plan to mix your methods of transportation in the morning. Your fellow commuters will thank you! And once you reach your destination, no more worries about where to park your bike - just fold it up and slide it under your desk until you need it. Manufactured by top brand names like Mongoose, Schwinn and Daymak, these bikes can be had for anywhere from $170 (for a basic model) to well over $1000 (for a model that throws a battery-powered throttle into the mix).

3.3) Tricycles

When it comes to your youngster’s safety, three wheels are definitely better than two! The tricycle’s triangular structure ensures that it will always remain upright, taking the worry out of your child’s precocious pedaling! Manufactured by top brand names like Kettler, Supercycle, Roadmaster and Schwinn, these fun little vehicles (often available in themed tie-ins to Disney childhood favourites) can be had for as little as $50!

Maintenance

1.) Bike Chains

Your bicycle’s chain is the dynamo that makes your vehicle run, so treat it with the respect it deserves! Keep it lubricated with mineral-based chain oils designed specifically for bikes or dry lubricants like wax or Teflon - and always make sure to clean your chain before applying lubricant (otherwise you’ll do more harm than good!) During the summer, when you are using your bike on a regular basis, experts recommend that you perform this crucial bit of maintenance at least once a month.

Of course, no matter how cautious you are, there’s always the chance that your chain might break. In that case, make sure to purchase the appropriate replacement chain (they generally cost less than $50) for your model of bicycle.

2.) Shifters & Derailleurs

Shifters and derailleur's enable you to control the gears on your bikes - so make sure they’re always in proper alignment! In order to be safe, take your bike into a tune-up shop every spring and let the professionals work their magic! Most new bike purchases include yearly tune ups at no charge, so be sure to take advantage of this. It’s the surest way to ensure a summer of smooth rides! In the event that you should need to replace these items, derailleurs, shifters and their various associated parts generally sell for $20 or less (depending upon the model of your bike, of course).

3.) Bike Tires and Spokes

Your bicycle won’t be much use without healthy tires and proper wheel alignment, so keep your eyes on the place where the rubber hits the road. One of the keys to maintaining this aspect of your bike in good order is never to subject your vehicle to terrain that it isn’t meant to cross (i.e. don’t go off-road unless you’re on a mountain bike!) For the best results, bring your bike in to a tune-up shop before the cycling season commences. Also, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises on the road, make a habit of squeezing your tire between your thumb and forefinger and tap all your spokes to see if any have come loose, tighten with a spoke wrench. Loose spokes can cause warping of the tire and even rim failure. It’s no fun to deal with a flat tire on the trails, so be sure to take the time to check the spokes before every ride. Sometimes all that’s needed is a little revitalizing air for the tires or a slight tug on the spokes to realign the wheel - but if the problem is more serious, be sure to replace any defective tires or wheel parts before you head out!

4.) Bicycle Brakes

You depend upon your bicycle’s braking system to keep you safe in traffic - so make sure to test your brakes out in the driveway before you hit the road. If you’re a vigorous cyclist who covers rough terrain, you’ll want to clean and lubricate the cables connecting your brakes once every couple of seasons. This is done by disassembling your brake cable from the brakes, removing the cable and cleaning both the cable itself as well as the cable housing. If this is over your head, take your bike into a service shop - they’ll get you all set, for a modest fee.

If any of the elements of this delicate system - from the center bolt to the levers to the cables that carry your message to the wheel - seem in danger of wearing out, make sure to get replacement brake parts immediately!

5.) Winter Storage

When it’s time to put the bike away, after a spectacular summer (and, if your luck holds up, even a few autumnal months) of cycling, make sure to give it a proper refuge from those vicious winter elements! For a wide range of storage options, scroll down the page to the Storage and Security section. And remember - if you keep your bike in a damp or unheated area, it will require regular chain and cable maintenance in order to keep it primed for next year! As for the tires, if it’s at all convenient, your best bet is to remove them from your bike and store them somewhere warm and cozy until springtime comes.

Safety Equipment

No one is superhuman, and even the most skilled cyclist can have an accident, so be sure to protect yourself from the hazards of road and trail with top quality protective gear.

1.) Bicycle Helmets

Keep your head safe with helmets for every situation and budget! Browse through a vast selection of models from top brand names like Bern, CCM, Schwinn and Giro. You can get a serviceable helmet for as little as $20 (kids’ helmets go for even less), but if you plan to spend a lot of time behind the handlebars, you might want to invest in one of the better-ventilated models, for comfort’s sake. These generally go for $100 or more. Serious mountain bikers who are planning to brave the most dangerous terrain should consider full-face helmets for optimal protection. These sell for as little as $50 - and are well worth the investment! And don’t forget about your eyes – get a good pair of goggles or protective sunglasses if you’re hitting the mountain trails.

2.) Bicycle Gloves

Keep a firm grip on your bike with stylish, comfortable gloves from top brand names like Kona, Giro, Pearl Izumi, Dakine and Planet Bike. Make a bold statement and protect yourself from unexpected rain, puddles or chill winds with a pair of form-fitting Roubaix (a type of fabric especially suited to cycling equipment) gloves! Padded gloves can also help to enforce a more ergonomically correct hand position on the handlebars, thus cutting down on wrist pain after a long ride! For maximum flexibility, investigate the many fingerless models on the market. You can pick up a good pair of cycling gloves for as little as $8 - and even the most sophisticated models don’t generally exceed $50.

3.) Elbow and Knee pads

No one likes to think about taking a fall, but realistic cyclists will guard against the possibility with protective gear for those vulnerable joints. With choices from top brand names like SixSixOne, Pro-Tec and Triple Eight, your tender elbows and knees won’t lack for protective options. You can get flexible nylon/polycarbonate pads for as little as $16, while some of the more heavily armored models can go for up to $100.

Bike Parts & Accessories

No one likes to think about taking a fall, but realistic cyclists will guard against the possibility with protective gear for those vulnerable joints. With choices from top brand names like SixSixOne, Pro-Tec and Triple Eight, your tender elbows and knees won’t lack for protective options. You can get flexible nylon/polycarbonate pads for as little as $16, while some of the more heavily armored models can go for up to $100.

1.) Replacement Bike Seats

Daily wear and tear can take its toll on your bike seat, but a cushiony ride is just one replacement seat away - courtesy of top brand names like Terry, Selle Italia, Louis Garneau and Planet Bike. Depending upon the type of bike you ride, this new burst of comfort could cost as little as $15!

2.) Mirrors

Keep a better eye on your surroundings with a handlebar-mountable mirror for your bike! Deluxe, adjustable models from top brands like Schwinn and Raleigh sell for as little as $8!

3.) Replacement Pedals

Keep your feet firmly planted on pedals you can trust with periodic replacements from top brand names like Crank Brothers, MEC and Wellgo. Make sure to buy the appropriate style of pedal for the bike that you ride, but some light-duty models sell for as little as $30.00.

4.) Reflectors and Lights

Make sure cars and other cyclists can see you on those leisurely nighttime drives with the best reflectors and LED lights on the market. Browse through an assortment of models by top brand names like Dimension, Schwinn, Nathan and Planet Bike - all for less than $20!

5.) Trailers and Other Child Transportation Options

Take your tyke along for the ride with a brand new cycling trailer! Browse through secure, roadworthy models (including suspension trailers, front seat mounted child carriers and ride-along bike models) by top brand names like BOB, Schwinn, CCM and Supercycle. While you’re at it, you can weatherize your junior caboose with a sturdy polyurethane coated weather shield! Tag-a-long bikes sell for as little as $100, while full trailers can range from $150 up to $410, depending upon the model.

6.) Bicycle Baskets

Turn your bike into an errand-running machine - or a thrilling ride for your small dog - with a basket attachment! Delight your daughter with her very own Disney Princess basket (for less than $10), or go all the way and get a cozy snoozer basket for Fido (for about $50).

7.) Bike Bags

Keep all of your most important items safely under your seat or on the handlebars with a handy Deuter, Basil or Jandd cycling bag! These handy, zipper-fastened accessories generally go for $10 or $15.

8.) Hydration Packs

Cycling may be low-impact, but it’s still a demanding exercise, and - especially if it’s hot - you could run the risk of dehydration! Keep your thirst at bay - and your body functioning on all cylinders - with powerful Thor and Fox hydration packs! These wonderful portable oases are guaranteed to keep you in the race all the way to the finish line - and sell for as little as $50!

9.) GPS Systems & Heart Monitors

Monitor your progress, both on the map and as an athlete, with a health and fitness GPS from Garmin! Ranging in price (and sophistication) from $270 to $530, these ultra-modern devices will keep your summer cycling quest on track!

Storage And Security Options

Once you’ve found the perfect bike - and customized it to your taste - take steps to keep it safe from envious humans and the elements! And remember, locking up your bike won’t protect its removable parts (like seats, baskets and mirrors) from thieves, so make sure to bring these in the house with you!

1.) Bike Locks

In the modern world, a bike lock is an absolute must! Make sure your ride home doesn’t disappear with an array of sturdy security devices from trusted brand names like Kryptonite, Master Lock, OnGuard and Planet Bike. Choose between classic U-Locks (which go for as little as $16), steel chain locks (which sell for around $35) and state-of-the-art pinhead wheel/seat post locks (which provide extra protection for your wheels and seat, and retail in the $50 range).

2.) Bike Racks

Planning a big mountain biking expedition out into the wild? Why waste time and energy on the highway trying to get there when you can mount your trusty cycle on the roof of your car and fast-forward to the good part? All you need is a bike rack from a trusted brand name like Delta Cycle or SportRack. These handy accessories can go for as little as $20. Multi-bike models are more expensive (selling in the $100 range), but provide maximum convenience for families or groups.

3.) Bike Hanging Systems/Winter Storage

Don’t chance leaving your bike out in the cold, cruel world! Bring it inside where it’s warm and everyone can be trusted. Whether you’ll be storing the bike in the garage or a room in your apartment or house, it’s always a good idea to save floor space! Study the available area and then choose between wall or ceiling rack mounts for your prized possession. Both options are quite inexpensive, although a ceiling hanging system will cost you a bit more, checking in at $30, as opposed to $15-$20 for a wall system.

LET’S GET CYCLICAL!

Whether you’re an urban commuter, a racing aficionado or a diehard wilderness daredevil, a bike can bring so much joy into your life! As a low-impact sport, cycling is the perfect exercise for young and old alike - and a wonderful family activity. Nothing beats getting out under the sun and generating your own cool, refreshing breeze with the power of pedaling feet! Hope to see you on the trail or the bike path this summer!