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New to Bikes?
Hopefully
some of the info below can help you sort through some bike buying issues:
Choosing your bike
You couldn't pick a better time to shop for a new bike, because
value and selection has never been better. We offer a vast variety of
models in a wide price range. From plush comfort
bikes, to knobby tire mountain bikes; from road racing machines
to robust cruisers, Olympia Cycle has two-wheelers ready to handle
nearly everything.
Having so many choices might be overwhelming, but a large selection
is great because it dramatically increases the likelihood of finding
the perfect bike. As well as great selection, at Olympia you'll
be able to ask questions, learn about different bike types and take
your favourites for a road test. Just be sure to come in with some
knowledge of yourself, the cycling you'd like to do, and some basic
information about the type of bikes that have already captured your imagination.
Prepared with this basic information, you'll be able to answer questions
from Olympia's knowledgeable staff and get a bike you'll really enjoy.
To help you prepare, we've compiled some information and questions
for you.
Answer These Questions
Before visiting the store, consider how you'll use the new bike and
where you'll ride once you've had it for a while. Ask yourself
a few questions to narrow your options.
Are you:
:: A new cyclist?
:: Into improving your fitness, perhaps with medium to long rides?
:: Interested in touring?
:: Training for an event?
:: Getting into road or mountain bike racing or triathlon?
:: Thinking of commuting to work/around town?
:: Taking up off-road riding?
:: Joining a group of friends who ride?
Analyze Yourself
Consider how many time a week or month you might ride. If you're new
to biking think about your other sports experiences. Did you
participate mostly for fun or did you take it seriously? Your
tendencies can tip you off as to whether you'll be satisfied with a
basic model or if you'll need something more advanced that your enthusiasm
won't outgrow.
Think about your purchasing tendencies:
For example, do you consistently
demand the highest quality or are you more apt to look for reasonable
quality and lower cost? Are you fascinated with high-tech gadgets
or are you satisfied with simpler designs, or will any two-wheeler
that does the job be just fine for you?
Where you live plays a major role in what type of bike to get. You'll
ride more if your new machine matches your riding opportunities.
For example, if you're surrounded by shimmering pavement, a hybrid
bike might be a better choice than a mountain bike.
Your Budget
It helps to know how much you want to spend because that's a quick
way to focus on the appropriate models. Like computers and other
modern appliances, it's best (and most cost effective) to purchase
the most appropriate model at the outset than to gamble on a make-do
bike and buy another later. Regardless of the type, as you spend
more, bicycles get slightly lighter (easier to ride) and are equipped
with more features and more efficient components.
While it's always possible to upgrade parts down the road, bike
components are much more affordable when they're included as standard
equipment on the new bike. It's most economical to get what you want
when you buy your new bike.
When calculating how much you'd like to spend on that new machine,
remember that you may need some extra items, like a helmet, lock,
pump, tool kit, cycling shorts, shoes, gloves and so on. Figure these
costs into your budget, too.
Bike Types
Here's an overview of the major bike types available today with descriptions
of their intended use and common features. Keep in mind that Olympia
offers test rides, which is an excellent way to see how the bike
types differ. Your friends may have the bike type you'd like to
try - ask if you can try their bikes.
| Type of Bike / Intended Use |
Features |
Comfort Bikes
Designed for easy pedaling and the least amount of stress on the body, comfort
bikes are perfect for leisurely town riding, cruising by the shore, vacation
outings and any ride where you're out for fun more than speed. |
Upright riding position; wide handlebars; wide,
comfortable seats; flat-resistant tires; easy pedaling; soft
ride. |
Hybrid Bikes
A hybrid of the mountain bike and road bike, these practical machines are ideal
for city riding, commuting, touring and fitness riding. |
Upright riding position; flat handlebars; low gearing for easy
hill climbing; powerful brakes; light, lively wheels with flat-resistant
tires; load carrying capacity and suspension forks. |
Performance Hybrid Bikes
This is one of our most popular types of bikes! These are faster and lighter
hybrid bikes with a performance edge. These are practical for city riding,
commuting and touring. |
Aggressive riding position; flat handlebars; large gearing
range for both speed and climbing; rigid forks and load carrying
capacity. |
Mountain Bikes
Sometimes called All-Terrain Bikes (ATB) or off-road bikes, these
amazing machines go everywhere and do everything! From cliff-like
dropoffs to shoe-drenching stream crossings, almost no obstacle
can stop a skilled rider. |
Upright riding position; flat or riser handlebars; high-traction,
flat-resistant tires; low gearing; excellent braking; rugged
frames, wheels and components; suspension for control and comfort
on rough terrain. |
Road Bikes
The ultimate in efficiency, these zippy models offer incredible
acceleration and handling, lighter weights and are perfect for
those who ride fast and hard on pavement. |
The most efficient frames; lightweight materials throughout;
excellent braking and shifting (gearing can be suited for racing
or touring); narrow, high-pressure tires and sometimes aero wheels. |
Cruisers
Rolling on soft "balloon" tires and equipped with comfy wide seats,
these models are great for leisurely spins to school, cruising to the corner
store or just for coasting around the neighbourhood. |
Upright, very laid-back position; fat, cushy
tires, few or no gears, great paint jobs. They're called cruisers
- the name says it all! Just hop on and pedal. |
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