Biking Essentials: What You Should Know Before Getting on a Bike

Biking is gaining popularity in the Philippines. More bikers are hitting the streets, forming organizations, and taking long biking trips. No matter the country, however, seeing free-wheeling bikers enjoying the wind blowing through their hair can evoke feelings of freedom, fun, and excitement. Whether you are into bikes and biking as a sport, as a profession, for exercise, for recreation, or for just plain fun, it is important to be responsible while biking, to ensure your safety and comfort. This article will cover some helpful information on purchasing a bike such as its types (mountain bike, road bike, hybrid bike, etc.), bike safety, and responsible biking.

Bike purchasing tips

Before setting out for the closest bike shop, it is important to know what kinds of bikes are out there and how to find the right one for you. There are basically three kinds of bikes for consumers to choose from. First is the road bike, which is designed for good traction and speed on paved streets. The road bike usually has a thin and lite frame that makes it ideal for rides that are long and fast. Second is the mountain bike. Mountain bikes are normally larger and chunkier than road bikes, since mountain bikes have to withstand the wear and tear of riding on bumpy, uneven surfaces. Mountain bikes usually have extra features such as shock absorbers, wide tires, and straight handlebars. The third kind of bike commonly used by cyclists is the hybrid bike. The hybrid normally has a lite frame, an upright seat, straight handlebars, and skinny tires, making it ideal for city-riding.

The next concern when purchasing a bike would be the rider's comfort. To have a comfortable and safe ride, those purchasing a bike should be sure to get the right-sized frame for their body. Since each person has unique dimensions with regards to height, leg length, and arm length, there is no one-size-fits-all kind of bike. When purchasing bikes, spend time at the shop and get assistance from the salespeople. Ask which frame would suit your size best and try out various frames to see which is most comfortable. For even more comfort and safety, adjust the handlebars and seat position to ensure comfort, proper posture, and maneuverability.

Bike safety tips

Anyone who has a bike should know how to operate it and keep it well-maintained to ensure the rider's safety. Bike instruction manuals provide helpful information on how to change, adjust, remove, and even assemble different parts of the bike. Aside from understanding how to adjust and fix the bike itself, it is also important for bike owners to know how to fix flat tires and change the chain. Another helpful safety tip is to do a three-point check before every ride:

1. Check the tires and breaks – Make sure that the tires are properly inflated and that all of the breaks are in proper working order.
2. Check the chain and gears – Ensure that the chain is properly seated on the gears and that no slipping occurs when changing between gears.
3. Check the bike frame, seat, and handlebars – Be sure that the frame is in good condition and that the seat and handlebars are adjusted to the rider's comfort and that all parts are fastened tightly.

Responsible biking

Anyone who is thinking of biking regularly, especially those who live in the city, should be aware of their responsibilities as bikers. Bikers should be aware of all the rules, regulations, and policies that govern biking and the streets in general. Follow bike lanes, sidewalks, and bike paths as much as possible and try not to ride on the portions of the street designated for motor vehicles. Biking with a group or a parter also helps in being responsible and safe when biking. Finally, be sure to bring any important gear that may be needed along the trip or in case of emergency such as water, cell phone, extra tire tubes, patching kits, a little money, and a form of identification.