Cycling Facts 101

There are some great and simple facts about bicycles that you should know:

What do I pay for?

1. Material of construction - is it steel, cromoly, aluminum, carbon fiber or something more exotic? Generally this sets the basic price point in a given category of bikes (cruiser, road, mountain, BMX, etc. . .)
2. Components - are there gears, hand brakes, special handlebars or other feature on the bike? If so, the more high end these are, you will pay for that. Generally internal hub technology (where there is not movement of the chain to change gears) is more expensive than an external deraileaur. This is not true with road bikes which may have very high end components (Shimano Dura Ace)
3. Bling, styling & fashion - do the rims of the bike match? Are there custom styled fenders or chain rings? Do you feel cool on the bike? If so, this bike probably costs more.

So take a moment and think about your bike! After all, the best bike is the one you will ride!