Step 1 -- Getting a Bike

I often hear from friends and colleagues that they don't ride a bike, because they don't own one. For some reason, there is a strong misconception that buying the right bike will involve taking out a loan. Many people have the notion that to become a cyclist you need to spend a grand on a shiny, new bike -- not too mention buy all the fancy accessories and colorful bike jerseys to go with it. Rest assure there are many bikes for many people and you'll find that whether you want to race through the city in padded shorts or tote around town in a skirt, there is surely a bike for you!

Buying a bike can cost you as little as a few fill-ups at the gas station or as much as your pocket can afford. Here's some questions to help guide you in the bike purchasing process....I think you'll find that buying a bike is really no different than the thought process that goes into buying a car (but a lot cheaper and more sustainable!!)

1) What do I want to use my bike for?

• Recreational rides along the American River Bike Trail
• Grocery shopping
• Town trips to coffee shops, restaurants, pubs
• Commuting to work
• Taking on the train/bus
• Showing off to all my friends ;-)
  

Once you decide what your primary purpose is for you bike, you'll be able to decide what kind of bike you may want to buy

2) So what kind of bikes are out there?

Lightweight Racing Bike (drop-down handle bars and thin tires)
Ideal for long, recreational or commute trips

Mountain Bike (straight handle bars and nobby tires)
Well, mountain biking of course, but also a good (and slower!) bike for around town

Hybrid/Commuting Bike (straight handle bars and thin tires)
Ideal for medium-long commute trips; take city potholes well

Cruiser Bike (sits upright, very comfortable)
Great around the town bike, and particularly nice for riding with skirts

Fixed-Gear Bike
Popular bikes in flat areas such as Sac

3) What should I buy with the bike?

A helmet and front/rear lights are really the only necessity for shorter trips around town. For longer or recreational rides, some accessories might include padded shorts, breathable jersey, clipless pedals and shoes/cleats

4) Where should I purchase?

• Sacramento Bicycle Kitchen -- build/buy a cheap used bike
  
• Local Bike Shops -- get a new bike and all your accessories
• Craigslist -- generally a good selection, especially in November when bike touring companies sell their previous year rental fleet