A city bike is a reliable, comfortable form of transport that allows you to combine sports and recreation and at the same time lead an active lifestyle. The correct choice of the bike model will determine not only the convenience of movement, but also the safety of the cyclist.
A bicycle for getting around the city is the perfect vehicle! It allows you to comfortably navigate the streets, avoiding traffic jams and public transport. At the same time, the cyclist has a unique opportunity to give a good load to the muscles, the cardiovascular system and not harm the environment.
Features of city bikes
The bike for the city is designed for movement on asphalt surface, so the main features of its design will be the characteristic shape of the steering wheel, a comfortable seat and smooth wheels.
When choosing a model of a city bike for an adult, it is important to focus not only on the attractiveness of its design, although this factor is also important. First of all, it is worth paying special attention to the frame - it can be understated, which is convenient for women, or high, closed - for men.
The material from which the frame is made will determine the safety of the person and the weight of the bike. Aluminum frames are lightweight, but at the same time they easily deform in the event of a collision of the bike with any obstacle. Steel frames are more reliable, but they also make the bike much heavier and more difficult to handle and transport.
City bike saddles are more comfortable and convenient due to the fact that they are made somewhat wider than the seats of sports bicycles. The saddle is adjustable in height and angle to form a correct fit.
The characteristic difference between a city bike and a sports bike is smooth wheels. Tires, as a rule, do not make noise and hum, do not have special hooks for driving on mud or sand.
The tall and comfortable handlebar provides a straight fit without straining your hands. Unlike bicycles for athletes, the handlebars are curved; city bikes are often equipped with a basket that attaches to the handlebars and allows you to carry light luggage.
Rules for choosing a city bike
First of all, you should pay attention to the frame markings - its dimensions are matched to the cyclist's height. Frame markings can be either inches or centimeters. For the correct selection of the frame, you need to stand on the side of the bike or sit on top - the distance from the top tube to the groin should be at least 10 cm.
Generally, a 14-16 "frame is recommended for people 140-165 cm tall and 18-20" for cyclists 160 to 185 cm tall. A 22 "frame is suitable for people taller than 190 cm.
City bike wheels can be 26 or 28 inches in diameter. Large wheels make it easier to overcome possible obstacles on the road - bumps, curbs, etc. However, the 26-inch wheels are more agile and manageable.
The gearbox is preferable multistage, with a closed sleeve. It will provide a comfortable ride in the urban landscape, when the ascents can alternate with descents. The bushing, covered with a special shield, protects the parts from dirt.
When choosing a bike for a city, you need to carefully check its braking system: as a rule, city models are equipped with pedal brakes, some bicycles are additionally equipped with a front hand brake.
