How to Choose a Road Bike

When your spending more dollars at the pump than you do while buying the weekly groceries, you might consider an alternative mode of transportation. By riding a bike instead, you can save money and fuel, soak up the sun and work out all at the same time. If you’re looking for a new road bike here’s how to find one:

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Learn what defines a road bike. Look for a lightweight frame, narrow high pressure tires and drop-down handle bars that significantly lessen wind resistance. Road bikes are specifically designed for long, fast riding.
2. Choose your retailer. A good bike will last for many years, so it’s worth paying a little more for first-rate customer service at a bike shop. If you need to save money, buy at the end of the summer, when many retailers offer sales.
3. Get fitted. There’s a lot more to fit then straddling a tube, which you should clear with at least an inch to spare. For example, if you have a short torso, you probably need a short top tube. If your thigh is long for your height, tilt your seat down further. Once the frame is adjusted to your body, you’ll be more comfortable and able to ride more efficiently. In a good shop, you’ll be measured and asked to pedal on a stationary bike adjusted to the appropriate proportions.
4. Your salesperson should know the product. Ask questions, and if the answers seem vague, shop elsewhere. A good salesperson should be proactive and ask about your riding habits, such as whether you accelerate while seated or standing.
5. Inflate the tires before your test ride. Road bikes can lose air pressure quickly. With dozens of models on display, most are not pumped up every day. Ride the bike in a parking lot or on the sidewalk first. Once you are comfortable, peddle out into the street and ride under real traffic conditions. If you’re buying a bike that takes shoe clips, don’t clip in until you’re comfortable with how the bike handles. Ride with the traffic. Riding against the traffic is illegal and dangerous. After your test drive, have the bike adjusted and head out again.
6. If you plan to use the bike for commuting or shopping, make sure that you have a first-rate lock. On an expensive bike, be prepared to take off the front wheel, and lock it to both the frame and rear wheel when you leave your bike. If your seat can be easily removed, you might have to buy a cable lock.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer a more comfortable seat or a different style of pedal, a good bike shop should be willing to swap components.
• Bikes sold in department stores are frequently not assembled well. They offer little variety in size and fit is a secondary consideration.