Top 5 Types of Bicycles Their Uses

Many people don't realize it but there are many different types of bicycles and they are all made for different purposes. There are many different reasons that people cycle and there is a bike for almost every reason. If you are shopping for a bike, then it might be good for you to read up on the different types. This will allow you to make an informed decision whenever it comes time to purchase your bike. This article will detail some of the main types of bicycle that are available and may help you decide which type will work best for you.

Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes are designed to be ridden in areas that are considered off road. They are perfect for riding through the country or down trails. Their tires are designed to offer maximum traction in a wide array of terrain. For this reason there are many people who ride them because of their versatility. Some people have them because although they are designed for off road uses, they work just as well in paved areas. When purchasing a mountain bike, be sure to consider their suspension. Different models have different suspension designs of their uses.

Road Bicycles

Road bikes are also known as 10 speed bikes. They are for use on roads and other smooth areas. These days they have more than 10 speeds because of the extra sprockets that they are designed with. There are a few different categories of road bikes. The first category is the touring bike. These are designed for long trips and have places where you may carry baggage and other important items that you may need. There is also the Randoneur. These bikes fall somewhere between touring and racing bikes. Finally there are several hybrid bicycles such as the city bike, the trekking bike and the cross bike. All of these styles have variations that make them suited to a particular area or use.

BMX Bikes

BMX bikes have been around for some time and are popular with teenagers and young adults. They are designed for riding around dirt tracks and other off road environments. There are also Jump and Freestyle versions of the BMX bike. These are designed for performing tricks. A BMX bike is almost always 20" total in height. The handlebars are straight up and there are rear and sometimes front breaks. In many cases there are begs at the hub of each wheel for standing when doing tricks.

Recumbent Bicycles

These types of bikes are probably the most comfortable. They bikes that sit low and allow the person to recline as they ride. These bikes are fast because they have lower wind resistance. They are gaining popularity each year as more people use them for exercise and casual riding. They are well suited to touring and smooth or paved bike trails. They are not recommended for rugged areas or other off-road use. Recumbent bikes come in many variations and the type that is purchased is usually the preference of the rider.

Multiple Rider / Tandem Bikes

There are variations on the bicycle that allow multiple riders. The most common is the tandem. This bike allows for two people to ride, one in front and one in back. There are also bikes that allow more riders in the same manner. There is a bike known as the sociable that allows two riders to sit side by side as they ride and there is the conference where both riders face one another as they ride. Finally there is the Buscycle. On this bike the captain or driver faced forward and there are two rows of peddlers, one facing right and the other left.