Among the three basic types of bicycles, road, mountain and hybrid, the last category is today's most popular. With increasing traffic congestion, soaring gas prices, and concerns about global warming, many people worldwide are heading to their local bike shop and finding that hybrids, which are now usually called urban bikes, aren’t hybrids any more. In a class by themselves, they are far from a middle of the road bike for the undecided. Today’s hybrids, ah, urban bikes are many and varied.
Urban Bikes Steal the Show
At Interbike 2007, the Bicycle Industry showed off many new models. Specialized Bicycles 2008 catalog listed six different versions of its most popular single-speed, fixed-gear Langster. A Trek favorite for the bicycle commuter was promoted: the Soho. Their so-called path bike, the Lime, looks like a good old-fashioned bike from the 1960s with a big fat seat and fender. Diamondback’s 2008 product catalog includes mountain-recreation, performance hybrid, comfort, commuter, and cruiser bikes.
Every bicycle manufacturer had a plethora of choices.
Performance Hybrids to Comfort Bicycles
Todays hybrids range from performance hybrids to comfort bikes All styles feature a comfortable, upright sitting position and a shorter reach from the seat to the handlebars. Hybrids have skinnier tires than comfort bikes. A hybrid has 27” diameter wheels and a comfort bike has 26” diameter wheels with wider tires than the hybrid. The performance hybrid is more efficient so you can ride longer or faster, making them ideal for commuters or those who want to exercise at a moderate pace. Comfort bikes are for people who plan to take short and slower rides and want to sit on a comfortable seat.
Their are many branded and generic names and special features from which to choose. The best way to decide on the right style and combination of extras is to go to a bike shop where trained staff can talk about the features, ask you questions about your preferences and plans for bicycle riding, and allow you to take the bicycle out for a test drive. Go to more than one bike shop since shops in the same town will sell different manufacturer's lines.
Back to the Future
Another choice for the bike rider who wants to get down to the basic benefits of riding is the 1969 Schwinn Deluxe. Hurry, supplies are limited, but they show up on Craigslist from time to time.
It is a great day for the bicycle enthusiast. And bicycles are a great discovery for those who are pushed to the pedal point by high gas prices. Bicycling is like riding with all of the windows down. After a few trips, you'll find new strength and meet your neighbors. Perhaps the ultimate discovery is that bike riders are more civil and, well, neighborly.
Planning a trip to Williamsburg, Virginia, soon? Bring you bicycle!
 |
