Bike Jargon with Jen: Choosing the Right Bike for You
A big thank you to Jen Done, who's here to help with a series of Bike Jargon blogs for LUCA. First up - how to choose a bike!
When I first started getting into cycling I found it to be quite a complicated and intimidating place. People used so many terms and I had no idea what most meant! Cyclists spoke about types of bikes as if I should know what they were - this nearly led me to giving up and trying to find a new hobby! However, whilst it can still be quite a confusing world, here at LUCA we aim to try and help make things in the cycling world seem a little less complicated, and to offer a space where we can all support each other. So today, we will focus on choosing the right bike for you.
Choosing a bike is often a very daunting task - working out what’s the right bike for your height, shape, the event you want to do, which brand is best for you, etc. can all seem pretty challenging - especially when you’re probably going to be spending quite a bit of money. So here are some ideas to help you through, whether you’re choosing your first bike or thinking of an upgrade.
Bikes are made from different materials but what do they mean?
Ideally most want their bike to be light, comfortable and sometimes slightly stiffer to ensure that power isn’t lost, particularly during race events. Typically bike frames are made of the following:
Carbon - A very light material with good stiffness and frequently chosen in the triathlon world for these reasons. Carbon frames are often more pricey and can break more easily, but if speed is your thing then carbon bikes are great. If you’re buying a second hand carbon bike it’s important to ask about any accidents as cracks don’t always show but can deteriorate over time.
Aluminium - A slightly cheaper option than carbon and still on the lighter side. However, aluminium can be weaker so frames are often a bit bulkier to make them stronger. A great bike for mooching around town, as well as triathlon events if you don’t want to spend lots of money on a carbon frame.
Steel - A strong and much cheaper option but it’s also pretty heavy, so less ideal for racing. But if you’re looking for a bike to get around town, or for the daily commute this can be a good option.
Titanium - Due to being slightly stronger, a titanium frame can be heavier than aluminium and it’s often a bit more expensive. But another good option for racing, as well as recreational activities!
Whilst finding your perfect bike, can feel like finding a needle in a haystack, bike shops are a great place to visit to discuss options. It’s often useful to have some ideas of what you’re looking for and the bike teams can then help guide you in the right direction. The two main things to consider to help get you started include:
Cost - how much do you want to spend? This can immediately help rule certain bikes out and narrow your search down.
Purpose - what will you mainly be using your bike for? Whether it’s for the daily commute, popping to see friends, everyday workouts or helping you to become the next Lucy Charles-Barclay, knowing your main purpose can help filter options.
