For some of us, buying a bicycle can be as intimidating as going into a gourmet Italian coffee shop. The choices are endless and the language is nothing short of foreign. In an attempt to ease the decision making process and ensure that you end up with the right bicycle, I've compiled a list of tips to help you on your journey.
1.Assess your needs. One of the best ways to waste your time and money is to purchase something that isn't right for you. There are so many options to choose from that it actually helps to be particular. Think about the ways that you plan to use your bike, how often will you be using it and how much maintenance it may need. What you are looking for may be totally different from what you need.
2.Start Slow. If you're just getting started don't go out and spend $2000 on a mountain bike. Get a reasonably priced bike ($200-$400) that is going to last and perform well. As you get more and more into biking you can add and upgrade components or trade up the entire bike.
3.Got skills? The sheer desire to get out there and ride can be a powerful urge. However, it is best not to let the desire take over and put you in a position of buying too much bike. If you can ride a bike, but are not used to all the gears, shifting options and gizmos that come with a performance bike, you may be discouraged and lose your enthusiasm. Being a casual cyclist is not a bad thing. You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to enjoy a good ride. Take a genuine assessment of your skill level before making your decision.
4.Do your homework. Assuage all thoughts of intimidation and fear through research. The best negotiating tactic is knowledge. It will ensure you know enough about your bicycle of choice to get a good price and give you the self confidence to ask for what you want. The internet has really been instrumental in educating consumers on future purchases and has subsequently changed the retail landscape.
5.Ask Lots of Questions. There are lots of places to ask questions. You can hit the blogs and forums but I would also recommend going into a brick and mortar bike shop. It can be intimidating but its always nice to actually get a feel for a bike and its parts. No matter where you go for info don't be afraid to ask questions, it's the only way to find out more.
6.Be True to Yourself. Be honest with yourself about your fitness level and abilities. You should know your height and weight and just how hard you will be able to push your bike. Don't get more bike than you need because it often leads to disinterest. Too much bike becomes too complicated for beginners.
7.Don't take my word for it. Though your interest in cycling may be new to you, there are many addicts out there. Beginners, cruiser, mountain bikers and "live to bike" types; your research should not be limited to retail experts. Ask those folks who are into it or getting into it, just like you. Their input is independent and free!
8.Visit a bike shop. There is a lot to be said for testing out a product before purchasing it. Although you may be able to save a lot of money by purchasing online, the last stage of research might be best served in a bike shop. Most bike shops will have knowledgeable personnel available to let you feel out a bike before purchase. In addition, if you do purchase your bike online, being aware of bike shop policies on maintenance is a great way to establish a relationship should you ever need any repairs.
9.Birds of a Feather flock together. If going to a bike shop is too inconvenient or bike sales people are too overzealous for you, borrow a bike from friend. More than likely, your friends share similar interests and fitness level. Even if you a friends with a bike enthusiast, he or she will still be able to offer some advice on brands and characteristics to suit your needs.
10.Buy what you like. The best way to ensure a good bike purchasing experience is to like what you buy. While research is important, don't go into paralysis through analysis. If you've found something that works for you, don't over think it.
Buying a bicycle does not have to be a stressful experience. In fact, one should be excited to get out there and ride. Taking a cruise on a new bike on a beautiful spring day can do wonders for your physical and emotional fitness. Take these tips and find your ride. - 22873
1.Assess your needs. One of the best ways to waste your time and money is to purchase something that isn't right for you. There are so many options to choose from that it actually helps to be particular. Think about the ways that you plan to use your bike, how often will you be using it and how much maintenance it may need. What you are looking for may be totally different from what you need.
2.Start Slow. If you're just getting started don't go out and spend $2000 on a mountain bike. Get a reasonably priced bike ($200-$400) that is going to last and perform well. As you get more and more into biking you can add and upgrade components or trade up the entire bike.
3.Got skills? The sheer desire to get out there and ride can be a powerful urge. However, it is best not to let the desire take over and put you in a position of buying too much bike. If you can ride a bike, but are not used to all the gears, shifting options and gizmos that come with a performance bike, you may be discouraged and lose your enthusiasm. Being a casual cyclist is not a bad thing. You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to enjoy a good ride. Take a genuine assessment of your skill level before making your decision.
4.Do your homework. Assuage all thoughts of intimidation and fear through research. The best negotiating tactic is knowledge. It will ensure you know enough about your bicycle of choice to get a good price and give you the self confidence to ask for what you want. The internet has really been instrumental in educating consumers on future purchases and has subsequently changed the retail landscape.
5.Ask Lots of Questions. There are lots of places to ask questions. You can hit the blogs and forums but I would also recommend going into a brick and mortar bike shop. It can be intimidating but its always nice to actually get a feel for a bike and its parts. No matter where you go for info don't be afraid to ask questions, it's the only way to find out more.
6.Be True to Yourself. Be honest with yourself about your fitness level and abilities. You should know your height and weight and just how hard you will be able to push your bike. Don't get more bike than you need because it often leads to disinterest. Too much bike becomes too complicated for beginners.
7.Don't take my word for it. Though your interest in cycling may be new to you, there are many addicts out there. Beginners, cruiser, mountain bikers and "live to bike" types; your research should not be limited to retail experts. Ask those folks who are into it or getting into it, just like you. Their input is independent and free!
8.Visit a bike shop. There is a lot to be said for testing out a product before purchasing it. Although you may be able to save a lot of money by purchasing online, the last stage of research might be best served in a bike shop. Most bike shops will have knowledgeable personnel available to let you feel out a bike before purchase. In addition, if you do purchase your bike online, being aware of bike shop policies on maintenance is a great way to establish a relationship should you ever need any repairs.
9.Birds of a Feather flock together. If going to a bike shop is too inconvenient or bike sales people are too overzealous for you, borrow a bike from friend. More than likely, your friends share similar interests and fitness level. Even if you a friends with a bike enthusiast, he or she will still be able to offer some advice on brands and characteristics to suit your needs.
10.Buy what you like. The best way to ensure a good bike purchasing experience is to like what you buy. While research is important, don't go into paralysis through analysis. If you've found something that works for you, don't over think it.
Buying a bicycle does not have to be a stressful experience. In fact, one should be excited to get out there and ride. Taking a cruise on a new bike on a beautiful spring day can do wonders for your physical and emotional fitness. Take these tips and find your ride. - 22873
About the Author:
Comfort Bikes are PJ's recommendation to those looking for a good starter bike. Recreational cyclists, especially women new to the activity, do not need to spend thousands of dollars on a mountain bike. If you are looking for a women's comfort bike check out PJ's store, TheComfortBikeShop.com
No comments:
Post a Comment