If once bicycles had a minimum of differences from each other, now there are many of their types and subspecies, and they all correspond to different operating conditions. When choosing a bike, the main thing is to decide for what purpose you need it and where you are going to ride it.
First of all, a bicycle is a means of transportation. But to go and just buy any bike you like outwardly is not enough. It is necessary to choose the right model that best suits you in terms of its purpose, size, convenience and quality.
Choosing the right bike will not only guarantee you a comfortable ride, but also the reliability and safety of its parts.
City or road bike
As the name suggests, these bicycles are designed to be used on city roads. The high seating position relieves the cyclist's arms. Comfortable and saddle - as a rule, it is mounted on a shock absorber pin or spring loaded. But such a bike is not suitable for extreme trips.
A city bike is characterized by:
- closed or open frame;
- large size of wheels;
- tires of medium thickness;
- non-removable shields, - the presence of a trunk;
- circuit protection.
Racing or road bike
The road bike is used for fast and long driving on the track. On good asphalt, a road bike can go much faster than a mountain bike and city bike. Unfortunately, it is not designed for driving on country roads or bumpy asphalt.
The main differences between a road bike:
- downward curved steering wheel;
- the average size of the wheels;
- from 16 to 30 gears;
- shifters integrated into the brakes.
Mountain bike
The mountain bike is designed for riding on not very good roads or rough terrain. The main differences between mountain bikes:
- low sturdy frame;
- small wheels with sturdy rims;
- powerful tires;
- depreciation forks;
- steering arrangement of shifters.
All-terrain bicycles can also be classified as mountain bikes. They are more comfortable on city roads due to the complete set of luggage racks, guards and other accessories.
Hybrid bike
This is a lightweight mountain bike, more suited for road riding.
The hybrid bike is considered one of the most versatile.
Differences between a hybrid bike and a mountain bike:
- lightweight frame;
- large diameter of wheels;
- the average thickness of the wheels;
- not very well developed tread;
- short-travel shock-absorbing forks.
Touring, or tourist bike
Touring is mainly used for long journeys. Its main advantage over the road is the ability to drive on poor-quality roads.
Differences between a touring bike and a road bike:
- more durable wheels;
- wider tires;
- extended frame;
- wide range of gears;
- the possibility of traveling with a load.
Track bike
The track bike is designed for racing on the track. Its main difference from the racing one is the absence of brakes and gear shifting. The advantage of track bikes is their lightness.
Apart from these basic types of bicycles, there are others. Tandems, or bicycles for two. Bicycles with a horizontal seat with a saddle in the shape of a chair. Motorcycle cruisers. There are stranger, even exotic types of bicycles. However, most of them are not intended for driving, but for shocking others.
