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Bikes
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Also, if you haven't checked them out yet, please take a look at our online gear finders:
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VIEW ALL BMX BIKES »
BMX Bikes 101
BMX stands for bicycle motorcross
Features
- BMX bikes are designed to be ridden and raced over prepared obstacle courses (usually through woods or around a dirt track), and are patterned after motorcycle motocross
- BMX bikes look similar to mountain bikes, but have smaller wheels and frames
Determining your ability level
- BMX bikes are not just for kids, but because they are so rugged, they are great for young riders who have not graduated beyond the curb-hopping, pothole-aiming phase of their careers
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VIEW ALL FREESTYLE BIKES »
Freestyle Bikes 101
Freestyle bikes are designed for doing tricks on the ground, off a ramp or in a half-pipe.
Features
- Freestyle frames are small and sturdy, and closely resemble their BMX brethren
- Features may include front and rear pegs (which riders can stand on while performing tricks), and a rotor that allows the handlebars to spin 360 degrees without the brake cables getting tangled or broken
Determining your ability level
- Freestyle bikes are specifically designed for daredevil antics and are not ideal for extremely young children
- Because of the nature of freestyle riding, knee and elbow pads, as well as a helmet, are highly recommended
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VIEW ALL MTN BIKES »
Mountain Bikes 101
Mountain Bikes are designed for riding over rugged terrain.
Features
- Mountain bikes have strong frames, durable wheels, upright handlebars, and strong brakes
- They also have low gears to help you go up hills, pedal through mud, and contend with roots, rocks and bumps
- They tend to be heavier than road and hybrid bikes, but are stronger overall and built to take more abuse
- The brakes are strong and have extra clearance to reduce mud build-up
- Many models feature front suspension systems built into the fork, and rear suspension is also becoming more common. Suspension increases comfort and improves control over rough ground.
Determining your ability level
- Entry-level models are good for beginning riders who plan to ride primarily on bike paths, but may venture onto a dirt road or rocky trail
- Front suspension bikes are suitable for intermediate riders who spend most of their time off-road, but may also venture onto bike paths or packed dirt roads and trails
- Full-suspension cross-country models are designed for serious off-road riding
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VIEW ALL ROAD BIKES »
Road/Hybrid Bikes 101
Road bikes are designed to be ridden only on pavement.
Features
- Road bikes
- Road bikes have light frames, drop or racing style handlebars, and narrow, high-pressure tires
- They are designed for speed, efficiency, and long distance
- Sport and touring bikes (sub-categories of road bikes)
- Sport and touring bikes have the same features as road bikes, and may also offer three chain rings (granny gears) for easy pedaling, as well as special frame fittings for fenders and racks
- Hybrid bikes (cross bikes)
- Hybrid bikes combine the features of mountain and road bikes
- Like mountain bikes, they have a wide gear ratio and upright handlebars
- Like road bikes, they also have narrower tires suited to riding on pavement
- Hybrids are good for casual road riding, commuting, and for riding on smooth dirt roads or trails.
- They are not as fast as traditional road bikes, and cannot handle rough terrain as well as mountain bikes
- Comfort bikes
- Comfort bikes feature upright handlebars and wide, padded seats
- They also have wide, smooth-riding tires, hand or coaster brakes, and are great for cruising around parks and beaches
Determining your ability level
- Road bikes are good for serious riders who like to go fast and far
- Sport bikes are good for recreational riders who also want some performance attributes
- Touring bikes are designed for riders who want to carry loads, such as racks and panniers (special bike bags), over long distances
- Hybrid models are designed for riders that want the lightness of a road bike and the durability and comfort of a mountain bike. Because of their versatility, hybrids are especially suited to recreational riders and commuters.
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BMX Bikes 101
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Freestyle Bikes 101
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Mountain Bikes 101
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Road/Hybrid Bikes 101
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