Riding a bike is a great way to get from point A to B, an excellent source of exercise, and an inexpensive and eco-friendly mode of travel. If you're new to biking, you can easily become overwhelmed with all of the various types on the market today. To help you find the perfect one, here are a few of the most popular options.

A Guide to Popular Bikes

1. Road

A road bike does best on pavement, asphalt, and other hard surfaces, as well as on well-traveled and -maintained trails. This is an ideal option for people who will be doing the majority of their cycling on city streets. Road bikes are lightweight and easy to maintain. They have thin but sturdy tires, multiple speed settings, and handlebars that are situated at a lower height than the seat.

2. Folding

A folding bike is a smart choice for a commuter who must travel via another mode of transportation on their usual route. These bikes also work well in homes and apartments where space is at a premium. They fold up into an easily transportable shape that stows neatly in a trunk, on a bus, or in a closet. They have small wheels and high seats and handlebars.

3. Mountain

Mountain bikes are made to navigate rougher terrain, such as trails, hills, deserts, and as their name implies, mountains. They have wider tires and higher seats than road bikes. Suspension is important when choosing a cycle of this type, as it supports the rider on uneven terrain. A bike with full front and rear suspension will have more cushioning than a hardtail, which is a mountain bike with front suspension only.

4. Hybrid

Hybrid models bring together the best qualities of both road and mountain bikes. Their tires are larger than that of road bikes but not as wide as those of mountain bikes, so they possess a certain amount of versatility and can transition from smooth to rough surfaces with ease. They are often designed for rider comfort, with soft seats, higher handlebars, and full suspension.

When shopping for a new bike, visit Jim's Bike & Key Shop. Since 1977, they have been providing the Boone County, MO, area with bike sales, repairs, and assembly. They also offer locksmith services, including lock installation and lockout assistance, as well as key cutting. To learn more about their current inventory of bikes, call (573) 442-7011 or visit their website.