Mountain, hybrid or low-step model – check out the retailer’s tips for bike shopping
- The itch to get a new ride starts to grow when the spring cycling paths begin to call. We asked Rami Hyytiä, retailer at Kesport Uusikaupunki, how to find just the right kind of bicycle. Grab these tips before heading out to shop – at your local store, of course!
What should you consider when buying a new bike?
“The first thing to think about is what you’ll use the bike for: is it for short trips to the store or commuting, or do you need a mountain bike or even a road racing bike? A hybrid bike is the standard bike of today – a kind of cross between a mountain bike and a city bike. They’re also the most commonly sold.”
“Once you’ve decided on the bike type, you can start considering whether you want an electric model or not, what frame height suits you, what kind of suspension features you need, and how many gears would be ideal. A rider tackling trails will benefit from good suspension, whereas on asphalt, too much suspension can make riding more difficult.”
What are the most important bike accessories?
“This also depends a lot on the type of bike. Most mountain bikes are sold as stripped-down models – once the bike is chosen, you pick the desired accessories, like fenders, a kickstand, and a lock. Some hybrid models are also sold without, say, a rear rack – but that can easily be added later.”
“The most important accessories are fenders, a kickstand, a lock, and of course, a helmet. Baskets are also somewhat popular. A rear light became mandatory on bicycles a few years ago. Many models already come with one by default, but they’re also inexpensive to buy separately.”
What are the cycling hits of the spring?
“The low-step, so-called ‘mom bike’ has remained a bestseller. These days, the design is more streamlined, and they’re called unisex bikes. People buy them regardless of gender.”
“Particularly popular is the low-step electric bike with seven gears and a coaster brake. Electric bikes are especially common as employer-provided bikes. The same model also sells well as a regular non-electric version.”
“There are also electric bikes with automatic gearing available now – they work basically like automatic cars. I’ve test-ridden one myself up the Hakametsä hill, and I have to say, cycling doesn’t get any easier or more comfortable than that. I believe automatic electric bikes are the next big thing in cycling.”
Also check out Matti Suominen’s tips from Ugin Pyörä for spring bike maintenance!