Different types of bikes

Road – fastest and easiest to pedal, but don’t ride well once off paved surfaces. The thinner tires make less contact with the road and are more susceptible to unfavorable road conditions like potholes and rain.

Mountain – often come with shocks to smooth the off-road routes and potholes on paved surface. The bike’s geometry makes riders sit more upright with a lower center of gravity and more comfortable and safer for newer or recreational riders.

Hybrid/City – designed for commuting comfortably, these bikes combine the ride of a cruiser or mountain bike with larger road-style wheels –hence the name hybrid. The tires can handle the rougher parts of the road, like mud patches or debris, with more stability than a normal road tire, but keeps much of the speed.

There are other categories as well, like BMX, recumbent, and cruiser bikes to name a few. Even within the three styles listed there are variations that blur the line. Any of the area bike shops should have a stock of each. Once you have found a type you want be sure to get one that is the right size. Riding a bike that doesn’t fit can result in an uncomfortable ride or lack of control.