Which bike to buy according to your needs
Choosing a new bicycle can seem like a’complex undertaking. City bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, road bikes-how to navigate a market so rich in options to find the right one? This abundance should actually not be frightening, but, on the contrary, it is a guarantee that there is a bicycle designed almost tailor-made for each specific need.
The key to not making the wrong purchase is to ignore models and components for a moment and focus on a single, fundamental question: “What will be the’main use I will make of my bicycle?”. Whether it is an’ally for city commuting, a tool for training, or a companion for weekend explorations, answering this question is the first step to properly navigating the different types available.
City bikes: efficiency and practicality
For those looking for a reliable means of transportation for daily city commuting, the most logical choice falls on the City Bike. This type is designed to offer maximum comfort and convenience on short trips and on asphalt, is characterized by an upright riding position, which provides an excellent view of traffic and does not strain the back, and is often already equipped with indispensable accessories such as mudguards, chain guards and luggage racks. It is the ideal bike for riding to work, running errands or enjoying a leisurely ride in the park, prioritizing functionality over pure performance.
The’asphalt and performance: the racing bike
If your goal is speed, training and riding long distances on asphalt roads, then you need to refer to racing bike models: these are designed for maximum aerodynamic and pedaling efficiency. Their lightweight frame, thin wheels and curved handlebars that allow for different grips are all aimed at transferring every watt of power to the asphalt. Aimed at those who love to grind miles, train or participate in granfondo events, a quality racing bike is an engineering gem designed for those who experience cycling as a sporting passion.
Trails and dirt: the world of mountain biking
When the’asphalt gives way to trails, dirt roads, and rough tracks, the undisputed star becomes the Mountain Bike (MTB): born for off-road adventure, it is a sturdy bike, equipped with both front and rear suspension to absorb shocks and knobbly tires to ensure grip on difficult terrain. Its geometry is designed to provide control and stability uphill and downhill. There are several subcategories of MTB, from the Cross-Country, which is lighter and more pedalable, to the’Enduro, which is more geared toward extreme descent. It is the go-to choice for those who want to explore nature, tackle forested trails and experience cycling as a challenge with the terrain.
Versatility: gravel and hybrid bikes
In recent years, two categories have emerged that have made versatility their strong point, intercepting the needs of those who do not want to set limits for themselves. The Gravel bike is the most recent and successful: aesthetically similar to a road bike, it has, however, a more comfortable geometry and a wheel passage that allows for wider, knobby tires. The result is a bike that is fast on asphalt but perfectly at home on light gravel and dirt roads, ideal for cycle touring and for those who wish to explore without boundaries. The Hybrid bike, on the other hand, is somewhere between a city bike and a mountain bike, combining a comfortable position with smooth but sturdy wheels, sometimes with light front suspension. It is perfect for leisure rides on mixed routes, such as bike paths along rivers or city parks with dirt sections.
