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Putting a positive spin on cycling - Positive spin on Cycling |
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Written by Erin Frustaci
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Wednesday, 23 August 2006 |
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Page 2 of 8
ARE YOU A MOUNTAIN OR A ROAD?
When buying a new bike, the first thing to do is ask yourself what kind of riding do you want to do.
“It’s important to figure out if you just want to have pavement ability or if you want to go on dirt roads,” said John Crowninshield, a sales representative for Full Cycle in Fort Collins. “Prices really range, but I recommend buying the best quality you can afford.”
 Mountain Bikes
Have larger tires and about 26-inch wheels. The tires are wider with knobs on them to grip the dirt. These bikes often have suspension shocks to handle harder terrain more smoothly. Crowninshield said good mountain bikes usually sell for about $700.
 Road Bikes
Usually come with 700c wheels and real skinny tires. Skinnier tires with higher pressure creates less friction and helps the rider go faster without pedaling as hard.
“This means less slowing you down,” Crowninshield said. “You don’t have to work as hard as you do with mountain bikes.”
The down side is they are strictly meant for pavement. Prices start around $500.
The Clothes
If you are looking to do some heavy duty mountain or road biking, apparel becomes crucial. Cycling shorts with padded bottoms, ranging from $40 to $120, make for a more comfortable ride. Jerseys made out of a lightweight, breathable material keep riders cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Costs range from $35-$125.
 Cruisers
Want something to get around town in style? Vintage inspired cruisers are racing into popularity.
“The secret to cruisers is to find one you think is really cool,” Crowninshield said.
Cruisers usually range between $250 and $500. They are basically simplified road bikes.
Comfort bikes
Comfort bikes are a mix built for comfort, but are also fairly efficient. These are meant for riding around town mostly, but can handle some off road riding.
“This is mostly what students buy,” Crowninshield said.
— Erin Frustaci
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