Anyone who is looking into buying a commuter bike should take a few different things into consideration. You'll be sitting on this thing for probably two hours a day (give or take), so it definitely is not a decision that should be taken lightly. In theory, any style of bike can be a commuter bike as long as you're taking it to and from work. However, this does not mean that any bike is right for any commute. Here are a few quick things that you may want to take into account when deciding which commuter bike is right for you.
Terrain is probably the most important factor in choosing a commuter bike. Important things to note when looking at terrain include how much time you will spend on pavement vs. off-road/dirt paths and how hilly your path to work will be. If your trek to work is hilly and often times goes through off-road paths, then you should probably consider using a multiple-gear bike. But if you'll be taking mostly roads or paved paths, stick with a fixed-gear bike.
You should also consider how skilled you are a biking, and how physically fit you are. People with less experience or who are more out of shape may want to consider a bike that has gears, rather than a fixed-gear bike.
Most people will have to transport a lot of stuff to work as well. While some people may be able to fit it all into a backpack, some may have to consider an attachment. Linus Bikes offers a good selection of baskets and bags that can be attached to your bike and hold a considerable amount.
At this point you're basically left with three main choices. While road bikes are great for flat, paved rides (or even some moderate hills for the more experienced rider), mountain bikes can easily navigate off-road paths and extreme hills. There is also the commuter-specific bike that has a fixed-gear and a more relaxed seat position. There are also touring bikes, comfort bikes and hybrid cyclo-cross bikes. Each one should be researched before you come to a decision.
Terrain is probably the most important factor in choosing a commuter bike. Important things to note when looking at terrain include how much time you will spend on pavement vs. off-road/dirt paths and how hilly your path to work will be. If your trek to work is hilly and often times goes through off-road paths, then you should probably consider using a multiple-gear bike. But if you'll be taking mostly roads or paved paths, stick with a fixed-gear bike.
You should also consider how skilled you are a biking, and how physically fit you are. People with less experience or who are more out of shape may want to consider a bike that has gears, rather than a fixed-gear bike.
Most people will have to transport a lot of stuff to work as well. While some people may be able to fit it all into a backpack, some may have to consider an attachment. Linus Bikes offers a good selection of baskets and bags that can be attached to your bike and hold a considerable amount.
At this point you're basically left with three main choices. While road bikes are great for flat, paved rides (or even some moderate hills for the more experienced rider), mountain bikes can easily navigate off-road paths and extreme hills. There is also the commuter-specific bike that has a fixed-gear and a more relaxed seat position. There are also touring bikes, comfort bikes and hybrid cyclo-cross bikes. Each one should be researched before you come to a decision.
About the Author:
Check out Linus Bike today if you're searching for great deals and more information about commuter and city bikes!. Free reprint available from: Which Commuter Bike is Best for you?.