8 bike-buying basics

Ever contemplated going a little greener and trading in your parking pass for a sturdy bike lock? Whether you're buying your first bike since selling your 10-speed got in a garage sale or just trading up for a new model, there are some basic things to consider before shopping.

1. Bike-buying basic: What kind of bike do I need?
If a little off-roading for fitness and fun is your goal, a mountain bike is a good choice. Mountain bikes feature a variety of gears, a strong frame and big shock-absorbing tires. However, those same tires can make pavement-riding slow, so if you're more of a speedy racer, a road bike is a better choice. Its lighter frame is skinnier, allowing for a faster trip.

European-style city bikes are ideal for in-town commuting, says Eric Kamphof, manager of Curbside Cycle in Toronto. "They are luxuriously comfortable, safe, very low maintenance, and keep your clothing spotless so you can fashionably ride to the opera in a full gown or tux," he promises.

2. Bike-buying basic: How should the bike fit?
The friendly staff where you buy your bike should help you to make any adjustments so the bike fits you specifically, but here are a couple of things to watch out for:
- When you push a pedal all the way down, your leg should be just slightly bent. Adjust the seat accordingly.
- Create a comfortable distance between your seat and the handlebars by moving the seat forwards or backwards, or choose a different stem for your handlebars to accommodate this space.

3. Bike-buying basic: What kind of bike seat should I get?
Your bike seat should complement your riding style, explains Kamphof. "If you are riding a road bike, thinner is better since the seat is only carrying half of your body weight. The more upright you are, the more your tush carries your body weight, hence the need for a seat to properly distribute your posterior," he says. He also recommends considering a style designed just for women. "Women have wider hips than males, so a women's-specific saddle really helps out."

4. Bike-buying basic: Do I really need a helmet?
While each province has independent laws regarding helmets, Kamphof is a believer that no one in this country should be without one. "In Holland, no one wears a helmet, but they also have bike lanes everywhere. In North America, if you're not wearing a helmet you're crazy!"

He suggests looking for a snug, comfortable fit with no pressure points and suggests that the average rider can make do with an average helmet. If cycling is a more serious sport for you, he recommends splurging on your headgear. "The harder you ride, the more you need to stay cool," he advises. A high-quality helmet offers better ventilation, so heat escapes and your head stays cooler.

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5. Bike-buying basic: Do I need fancy biking shoes and pedals?
Cycling shoes that clip onto pedals are more for athletes rather than commuters or Sunday riders. "They give the cyclist the ability to use the whole leg in the pedal revolution, by allowing you to push and pull the pedal whereas most cyclists just push," he says. While Kamphof admits that using these sorts of pedals can help make your calves look great, he maintains that the average rider should be able to sport any old footwear they like.

6. Bike-buying basic: What should I wear for biking?
What you wear depends on the type of cycling you're doing. Spandex allows for the most movement and can be most comfortable if you're riding for fitness, says Kamphof, but if you're commuting to work, you probably don't want to run into the boss while you're still squeezed into cycling shorts. "A real city bike," he explains, "covers the entire chain with a case and even has a guard to make sure that your long coat or skirt stays out of the spokes." If you're cycling at night, make sure you're wearing something that has reflective areas, to make it easier for motorists to see you on the road.

7. Bike-buying basic: Do I need an emergency kit or maintenance supplies?
If you're cycling in a city, Kamphof says all you need is a working cell phone. "You know, just in case you get a flat and have to call in late for work." If your ride takes you out on a trail or along an open road, he suggests an Allen key tool set, a spare tube and a patch kit. "And a cell phone in case something goes really wrong!"

8. Bike-buying basic: How about extra biking accessories?
Don't forget to pick up these necessities:

- A good, sturdy lock. If you've paid a lot for your bike, splurge on the best lock your local bike shop recommends.
- A headlight and a tail-light. Your municipality might have laws regarding these, so even if you don't plan to ride after dark, you should make the investment.
- A bell or horn. Again, there are laws about this feature, so make sure you're following the rules.

Now that you're all set up, hop on and make a smaller carbon footprint while doing something great for your health. "Even a low intensity ride to work gets the heart rate up, lowers your stress, and puts a smile on your face."

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