How to choose a bicycle

Singapore government has been promoting cycling by creating Park Connection Networks and dedicated cycling paths. Just recently they proposed to create another 200KM of cycling paths. If you are those attracted to jump on the band wagon, the first thing you need to do is to get a bike.

Now getting a bike is easy. Just go to your neighborhood bike shop and you can easily get a bike of your choice. However, you may regret it later when you find that it is not really suitable for your need. Bicycles has evolved tremendously. There are many types available for different uses. The following is not a professional guide. It is just a general note on choosing a bike.

Racer bike- By its name you will know that this is not for causal use. This is the type of bike that you use for speeding on road. Being aerodynamic in design, your body is usually bent forward and you normally have a device that held your shoe firmly on the paddle. This bike is not for novice cyclist. The standard wheel size is 26".

Hybrid bike - This bike is also normally used for speeding. However, its design is a mixture of mountain bike straight handle, simple peddle (can change) and rugged body (for more rugged terrain). The standard wheel size is also 26".

Mountain bike- For people who would like to go off road into jungle trails, this bike have wide wheel diameters and very rough tires to increase grip on the ground. It is not designed for speed although with proper combination of gears, and wheels you can still go at high speed. Wheel size will vary with bike size. This type of bike is common in your neighborhood bike shop. It is commonly used for commuting on road instead of going off road. The handle is straight and the body bent is less acute.

Touring bike - This type of bike is used for long distance tours. You can attach carrying bags to the bike for touring purpose. Usually you have to go to professional bike shop to get one.

BMX bike - For kids who would like to do stunts with bicycles. This is the type used. There are some parks specially designed for this type of bike. You can go up and down ramps and stairs with this kind of bike. It is not meant for speed.

Fixed gear bike - It is now a popular trend to go back to ancient times where you cannot change gear. This type of bike is best for urban commuting. The handle can be straight or racer style. The paddle is usually simple.

Foldable bike - another popular trend in Singapore. The bike can be folded and carried into trains and buses (only if you are the only one carrying a foldable in a bus). They are usually super light. Some could really speed while others are designed for casual cycling with modest speed. Don't be surprised that many of them have only one brake. The standard wheel size is 20". There are some with 18" or smaller wheels. You can really sit straight up with the handle raised high.

Carry me bike - Another specie of the foldables. This bike has really small wheels. Don't be fooled by the small wheels. It can also speed.

Professionals will tell you a lot more to the above simple description. However, for novice cyclists, just settle for the standard feature of each bike. You can "upgrade" later if you want.

As for the price, it has very wide range. Anything from sub $100 to $10,000. The quality of the bike will determine the price. It really depends on your budget.