Getting a Comfortable Bicycle, Get the Right Fit With Your New Bike

Jun 21st, 2009 | By coolbiking | Category: Cycling Tips

By Rick C Kern

How do I get a Comfortable bike?

The first key to getting a comfortable bike is to get a bike that fits you.

Good bicycles are built in several sizes that will get your body in close to the proper riding position. The one size fits all bicycles sold at most discount stores will not fit most people.

The lower and further forward your hand position in relation to your seat, normally the faster, more efficiently the bike can be ridden. The problem is the further forward, lower hand position is less comfortable for the beginning or recreational rider. As you ride more you will get more comfortable on your bike.

Wheel and tire size are important because they determine the rolling resistance and the natural suspension in the bike. The wider the tire normally the softer more absorbent the ride but also the more rolling resistance the bike will have.

Bicycle Seats are very important. Many people do not ride a bike because it makes their backside hurt. Your position on the bike is as important as having a comfortable seat to keeping your butt from hurting. Proper seat height makes a big difference in how much weight is on your seat. A common problem is having your seat too low which puts more weight on your backside making riding less comfortable.

Bicycle weight is important but the wheel and tire weight are even more important. The rotating weight that is a long ways from the center of the wheel is the most important weight on your bicycle. Overall weight is important but if you can decrease the weight of your tires and tubes by a pound or more you will notice a big difference in the acceleration and performance of your bike.

Deciding if you are going to be riding your bike mainly on mountain trails, dirt roads, or as a fast street bike is the first step in getting a comfortable bike for you.

Then go to your local bicycle shop and have them help you fit your bike. Normally they can move the seat and handlebars so that you can get comfortable on your bike. As you use your bike more and get more comfortable you may want to make more changes to your riding position.

Getting the perfect bicycle fit

–About–

By Rick C Kern – Rick Kern has been fitting bicycles and helping people get more comfortable on their bicycles since 1980. Check out Bicycle Hangar Missoula, Mt for great articles on bicycle wheel sizes, bike safety, bicycle road repairs and more. Also check out Beautiful Bicycle Racks for articles on car racks.

Source: Cool Biking Zone – Your source for great cycling, sports and fitness articles!

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