We’ve outlined the following questions to ask yourself and factors to consider when choosing a bike.

Where and how do you ride?

First, ask yourself how you plan to use your bike - or bikes. Commute to work, weekend warrior, perhaps a bit of both? Trails or paved streets? Plan to ride multiple times a week or just now and then?

Types of bikes

Once you get clear on your purpose, figure out which bike type is right for you. Here are options:

• A commuter (AKA street, city, or hybrid) will be good for rides up to 20 miles on city streets. The upright seating position and straight handlebars are excellent for dealing with city traffic, as you will look up more at intersections.

• The best bike for long distance rides is a road bike. Its aerodynamic position isn’t as comfortable as upright bikes, but it’s the best position to go fast on a long ride.

• If you are going mountain biking, get a mountain bike. Riding a mountain bike in the city is probably heavier than needed. Also, the extra tire tread will slow you down and make pedaling harder.

• Folding bikes can compact for storing or taking on transit. They are also good for apartment living, where space is at a premium. Although folding bikes are better for shorter distances, some people ride them everywhere.

• E-bikes or electric bicycles are for riders who already feel comfortable on a bike and would like to be assisted in their journey. These bikes can go pretty fast and help make long and/or hilly trips much easier. E-bikes need charging, so they require a bit more maintenance than pedal bikes.

• A cargo bike or an electric cargo bike is best for parents or people who need to drop kids at school, go grocery shopping, or generally have lots of stuff to haul.

Note: If you plan on taking your bike on transit, you’ll want one that isn't heavy, as you may need to carry it up steps to board or stow it on a raised rack. Almost any bike will do, but remember that the heavier it is, the harder it will be to maneuver in this case. Consider doing without heavier components like shock absorbers. You’ll be glad you did every time you pick up your bike.

How much do you want to spend?

It’s likely you will need to spend at least $500 to get a good new bike. There’s no limit to how much you can spend, just know that quality commuters start around $500, road bikes at $1,000, folding bikes at $800, and mountain bikes start around $500.

What to do when you visit a bike shop

Once you know what kind of ride you’d like, it’s time to test ride ALL the bikes. Seriously, the more bikes you try, the better you’ll know which geometry, style, and weight feels the best. Bike shops can feel intimidating for new riders, so you may be tempted to order a bike online, sight unseen, but don’t. Here are some shopping tips:

• Tell the salesperson what type of riding you will be doing (commute, mountain biking, etc.).

• Discuss any physical limitations you are concerned about.

• Do you have a price range in mind? Mention this to the salesperson.

• Ask to test ride the bikes you are interested in; the shop will likely ask to keep your license during your ride.

• Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes if you want to take a test ride.

• Bring your own helmet or ask to borrow one at the shop.

• Ask what the warranty is and if the first tune up is included when purchasing the bike.

• Ask if there are any sales coming up.

Where to buy

First, we don’t recommend buying a bike at a big box store or online unless you are very knowledgeable about bikes. It makes a difference to get a bike that has been built by a professional bike mechanic and from a place that specializes in bikes and/or outdoor gear. You should be able to test ride bikes to make sure you get the right size and like the bike you are about to purchase. Plus, it’s really nice to have a relationship with a bike shop since you will want a place to go for ongoing maintenance, repair, and support.

Things to consider when buying a bike (and gear for biking)

• Be sure you like your bike shop, since you’ll want to go back there for future service. Think of them when needing specialized help and ongoing support.

• Take a minute to know the warranty.

• Be cautious of being oversold. (...Do I really need this?)

Mike’s Bikes at The Hub: 3215 Porter Drive, Palo Alto

Stanford Research Park provides special offers and discounts at Mike's Bikes at The Hub for those who work at employer sites in the Research Park. Just stop into the shop and ask an associate for full details on all special offers.

Need more help? Email us!