Decided to purchase a two-wheeled friend, but overwhelmed by the different types of bikes out there and what will be best for your needs? Don’t worry, you’re not alone; and you’re certainly not going to be left in the dark if Torpedo7 has any say in it.
As the outdoor adventure specialists, we thought it our duty to compile an overview of the different types of bikes out there on the market, with some suggestions for who they’d suit best and some models to get beginners started.
So without further ado, here’s a wrap up of all the main types of bikes you can choose from.
Mountain Bikes
What are they?
Mountain bikes, as the name would suggest, are built for climbing mountains and generally tackling whatever off-road trails can throw at them. They are packed with more suspension than their counterparts, as well as sturdier frames, larger tyres, more powerful brakes and lower gear ratios.
Who do they suit?
Like the BMX, mountain bikes are the bad boys of the various types of bikes out there. Unlike BMX, they can keep you comfortable on a longer ride. That means you can be out blazing trails on steep, rocky hills, loose gravel, and really anywhere that takes your fancy, for longer.
Got any suggestions for me?
Mountain bikes tend to be a bit more on the expensive side, but if you’re looking for something that won’t hurt the pocket too much, check out the Avanti Montari 29.2. It’s light and rigid to keep you on your path, with a sleek aluminium frame.
For those willing to spend a little extra dosh, you can’t go past the KHS 2014 Sixfifty 2500 mountain bike (pictured above). This absolute dream of a machine is a best seller, and it only takes a few minutes behind the handlebars to see why. Not too expensive, and not too cheap, you know Goldilocks would have picked this one out as a winner.
For those really serious about getting their new passion underway, the KHS 2014 Team 29 inch mountain bike heeds your call. It’s made of premium quality carbon fibre, comes with easy rolling 29 inch tyres, and is faster than lightning.
Road Bikes
What are they?
Road bikes are lean, mean, speed inducing machines that are your ultimate connection to the open road. The thin tyres and frame mean you’re restricted to paved and closed surfaces, but they also mean you’re able to fly like the wind, bullseye.
Who do they suit?
Make no mistake – road bikes aren’t for fooling around. They’re for speed demons who like to whip along the road without a care in the world. Of course everyone has to begin somewhere, so you don’t necessarily need to be Tour De France level before you throw your leg over the saddle of one of these babies.
Got any suggestions for me?
The lightweight and inexpensive KHS 2014 Flite 100 300c road bike is a perfect beginners’ tool. It’s unassuming, simplistic, yet wonderfully beautiful.
If you’re already at that position of being serious, the Colnago CLX 3.0 Ultegra Di2 road bike (pictured above) is your girl. Colnago are known around the world for their expert cycle manufacturing, and this masterpiece of theirs lives up to the hype.
Cyclocross Bikes
What are they?
Similar to road bikes but not quite, cyclocross bikes are specifically designed to be raced in the cyclocross circuit. This demanding circuit consists of quick laps (usually between 2.5 and 3.5 kilometres) of varying terrain.
You’re expected to tackle everything from grass to pavement, obstacle courses to steep descents, so obviously your cyclocross bike is expected to do the same.
Who do they suit?
While they’re designed for racing, that doesn’t mean it’s just for the professionals. Many commuters who have to be able to go over various terrains choose to ride cyclocross bikes. With their speed and adaptability, they make for a very fun ride.
Got any suggestions for me?
Though it’s not necessarily a beginner’s bike, the KHS 2014 CX 300 700x35C Cyclocross Bike (pictured above) is a great one to start out with. It’s super lightweight but strong, super agile but resilient, and is a true dream to ride.
BMX Bikes
What are they?
BMX bikes are one of the more minimal bikes out there, small, tight and fast, and lacking any frills. They are designed for people who want to go hard on bmx tracks, dirt jumps, skate parks and the street, with a focus on jumping, tricks and style. Often the gateway into competitive cycling for youth, there are also plenty of adult BMX bikes available too.
Who do they suit?
If you live by the motto “go hard or go home”, it’s probably safe to say you’ll feel comfortable on one of these bad boys. BMX bikes are reasonably uncomplicated, easy to transport, and can seriously take a punch.
Keep in mind they’re more for short and sharp rides, not for tackling a weekend marathon.
Got any suggestions for me?
For kids getting into BMX riding, you can’t beat the FELT Sector Mini racer bike. Moving up the age scale a little, the FELT Sector Junior BMX bike is another beauty for new beginners.
AUTHOR
Danielle Conwell
Marketing - Torpedo7
