Riding a bicycle is a great way to explore a place. It enables us to cover greater distances than walking, and a fantastic work out as a sport.

This invention from the 19^th century is still going from strength to strength, over the years many styles and innovations of bicycle technologies have been developed and forgotten. In this section we look at 4 types of road bicycles commonly found today and information that is useful to know.

Simple checks before you go

Sometime we get carried away on a bike ride and go further than expected, so a reliable bike is always a good idea. Since there isn’t a road recovery service for bicycles, a few simple checks before you leave home may save you some troubles and prolong your bike’s lifespan.

1. Brakes – you don’t want to find a faulty brake in any situation when riding, so check it to make sure it works and that the break pads have not worn below the markers.

2. Tyres – don’t use any tyres that are worn out or with cracks on the side wall. Make sure you know and keep the correct pressure of your tyres and inner tubes, pump them up if necessary.

3. Drive chain – check the chain is free from dirt and well lubricated, apply a good quality chain lube once in a while or every time before you leave home. Make sure you know how to put your chain back if it comes off during riding.

4. Gears – make sure all the gears are working and shifting to the right index. You don’t want to find a problem when grinding up a hill.

5. Repair kit – doesn’t matter the length of the ride, bring your puncture kit, tyre levers and pump.

6. Lights – in some countries, it is illegal to ride without bicycle lights at night. Even if not, it is safer to bring them if you think your trip may linger towards the evening.

7. Helmet – don’t ride without a helmet! If a helmet is involved in a crash, replace it.

8. Water – many of us don’t drink enough water when exercising, always good to have a bottle and drink occasionally even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Should I Service my own bike?

It depends on how often you use your bike, good practise to get a professional to service it once every one or two years.

But maintaining your own bike is an enjoyable experience, and sometime a necessary skill to have if you are riding long hours. Although the cost of the initial investment on tools and consumables are not for everyone, but the satisfaction and skills learned are immeasurable.

Right sized bike, how?

This is a very difficult question, since some manufacturers are using different measurements and height is only one of the many deciding factors. Best thing to do is to check out the manufacturer’s website first, and then go test ride as many options as you can from your local bike shop and bring a knowledgeable friend. If you don’t know anyone that can help, how about create a “Bike Shopping Day” event to get a group of us to go together!

But most importantly is to ask yourself what you want from the bike and where are you most likely to use it before buying! Check out our articles and see what suits you best.

Women’s specific bikes, is it important?

The reason for women’s specific models bikes is that, generally women are anatomically different than men. Frame design specifically for women could offer extra comfort and in some cases prevent injuries especially in competitive environment. But this may not hold true to every woman, so it is better to seek advice from local bike shop and most importantly, test ride as many bikes as you can and bring a knowledgeable friend!