Find the Different Bike Frame Sizes

By A. Addy

Bikes have different frames and manufacturers of bikes frames come up with new ideas on bike frame sizes, geometry, angles and all that! The most important thing is that the frame should fit the bike well. Though manufacturers manufacture different frames, there are a few dimensions with which one cant mess around with too much. It depends on the buyer what bike frame sizes, geometry, angles and all that stuff he chooses for his bike. If you buy top frames then you are surely buying a good quality one and he can choose from different colors.

Understanding basic geometry well first:

There is some basic geometry which one has to understand well and some dimensions which can never be messed with. With different bike frames, sizes, geometry angles and all that! one can have the type of bike you always wished for. The distance between the bottom racket axle and the back wheel axle, the length the chain stay, the distance between the front wheel and the bottom racket, are some of the main basic geometries which need to be taken care off. These basics are followed for all bike designs. Handling the bike becomes difficult even there is a slight change in dimension. Bikes can tend to become dangerous if dimensions are not maintained well and they will not descend or corner safely.

Understanding frame lengths and other dimensions:

For normal road bikes with 700 cc wheels the total wheel base should be around (G) 100 cm which can vary between 98 cm to 104 cm depending on the overall size of the frame. Frame lengths can be changed as per requirement. The other dimensions are the length of the seat tube and it is important that it should fit the needs of the rider. The long seat pin makes sure that the saddle is set at the correct height. Longer bikes will provide soft comfortable rides and are great for touring, but for racing they perform sluggishly and are slow to respond.

The seat angle depends on the size of the frame as far as factory made frames are concerned. Angle of the seat tube will be steeper with a smaller frame which suits smaller riders especially those with shorter thighs. To get over the pedals shorter riders have to sit further, which taller riders can sit at a laid back angle as they have longer thighs. You can have a bike you always desired with different bike frames, sizes, geometry angles and all that!

Interested in bike frames reviews?; Alison Addy is the author of many resources on bike frames reviews related topics published at bikecyclingreviews.com. Read additional info about bicycle geometry or bike frame size at http://www.bikecyclingreviews.com/Frame_Geometry.html. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- For more on bicycle frames, see www.bestbikeguide.com.

Adding Bike Lanes Or Not - A Huge Biking Debate

By Henrik Jonsson

One debate that goes on is about bike lanes. There are many good reasons for having them and strong ones against it. The goal is shared. Many cyclists would like to be safer on the roads that they pay for using their preferred method of transportation.

One argument is that bike lanes reinforce the minds of drivers that bicycles belong on the road. They see the lanes and will understand that part of that road is for the bikes and to be aware. Those who disagree with bike lanes say that this only reinforces to the drive that bikes should only be on specially marked roads. If a road isn't marked the driver will assume that this road isn't for bikes and won't watch for them on roads that aren't marked.

Those in favor of bike lanes make the argument that having these lanes will at least assure that part of the road will be nice and smooth. The city could work on making sure that this part of the road is free from potholes and other hazards. Those against the lanes say that this isn't attainable and bikers will still have to swerve and dodge these problem areas in the road and it might be easier to do on a larger road.

One thing both sides are in favor of is keeping bike lanes off the left side of the street. Some cities for one reason or another have added bike lanes that go towards oncoming traffic. This puts the cyclists in even more danger which is not a positive solution.

Biking is a pretty important. If more biked, there would be some health benefits and much less money needed to repair the roads. How to go about it safely with distracted drivers is always going to be a difficult issue to actually resolve.

Henrik has been writing articles online for nearly 2 years now. You can check out his latest website on Laptop sleeve 17 where he will tell you more information about the Neoprene laptop sleeve. ----------------------------------------- For more information on bikes, see www.bestbikeguide.com.

What to Look For in a Mountain Bike

By David A Carter

In the market for a new mountain bike? Don't type in your credit card details just yet. A new mountain bike is a substantial purchase, and a little bit of research and thought can make the whole ordeal both easier and more satisfying. This guide will help you find the right mountain bike for the right price.

What Kind of Bike is Right For You?

Mountain bikes come in a number of different styles and makes, depending on the type of terrain you plan on taking on. One bike might be best suited to a rough-terrain, downhill ride, while another bike is optimal road or light off-road riding.

In your search for a new bike, be sure and take into account the terrain you'll be riding on. Some of the cheaper models are just fine for light conditions, but if you plan on taking on some really adventurous rides, it's definitely worth it to shell out a few extra dollars.

Another thing to take into account is that mountain bikes, like road bikes, generally come in a Men's and Women's style. The difference is not just aesthetic: men and women have different body builds, and riding the wrong style of bike can either impede your ability, or worse, end up hurting you.

Also, make sure and look at the suspension that comes with the bike. In mountain biking, a good suspension can mean the difference between a smooth, enjoyable ride and an utterly disastrous one. Optimally, we recommend a full- or dual-suspension, preferably an adjustable one, for serious riding, though a front- or rear-only suspension is fine for road and simple-trail riding. Understand your options and find out which is best for you: full suspension or front suspension.

Set a Price Range

Like any other specialized product, mountain bikes come in a wide spectrum of prices. Frankly, you could spend anywhere from $100 to over $4,000 on a new mountain bike. Consider your budget and set a realistic maximum price for your new bike.

If you're looking to save a few dollars (and who isn't?), we highly recommend checking online, especially for used bikes. You can find a used machine for a fraction of the price, and if you're thorough in your shopping, you can find one that is in perfect or near-perfect condition.

Specialized Components

There are a number of components to look at for your new bicycle. Besides the all-important suspension, it's a good idea to look at breaks, frame composition, gear-shifters, and other options.

For example, rim brakes are generally cheaper than disc brakes, but offer less control. For easy riding, rim brakes are just fine, but if you're going on tough downhill rides, you'll definitely want the added punch of high-quality disc brakes.

Tires are also crucial. Wide tires (1.5-2 Inches) are ideal for rough terrain, because they give you maximum control. Thinner tires are much better suited to road and light off-road situations (much like the super-thin tires seen on quality road bikes) because they allow for higher speed, but will cause problems when the terrain changes.

Conclusion: The fact is, buying a new mountain bike is a big purchase, and one that absolutely warrants serious consideration. Don't rush into an ill-advised purchase. Consider all the variables and buy the best mountain bike for you. Mongoose Mountain Bikes for Sale ----------------------------------------------------------- For more Mountain Bike Information, see www.bestbikeguide.com

How to Adjust Bicycle Handlebar Height

By Jerry Goodwin

It seems odd to me that much of the design changes of the bicycle over the years can be attributed to bicycle racing. It seems odd for the simple matter that most cyclists do not race. In the bike club I belong to we now have over 100 members of which probably 20 are racers. Some of us old guys go to the Golden Olympics, but most of us wouldn't have a ghost of a chance in a Cat 3 race.

There lies a problem though in that what is fast which is what a racer needs of course is not always the most comfortable for the distance rider or the weekend athlete. Many more of today's cyclists are distance riders or weekend warriors than are "racers"

So while the bicycle racer will aim for the flat back with the belly on the top tube and leaning forward as far as possible to get the best aerodynamics from himself and his ride, the much more common recreational rider will opt for a more upright position on the bike.

Long distance riders that spend many hours in the saddle but with much less speed than the racer will opt for a higher handlebar height. Sometimes getting a better fit for the rider and the type of riding involves not just an adjustment but also a parts replacement.

You may find that what came with the bike is not what fits you and that you need a longer handlebar stem to raise the handlebars or bring them closer to the saddle, possibly both.

Older bikes used a conical expander nut with a split shaft that expanded against the inside of the steerer. Newer bikes use a slightly different system that does almost exactly the same thing. Basically if you loosen the bolt that is on the top of the stem you should be able to move the stem up or down which will increase the height of the handlebars.

Be extremely careful when raising the bar that you do NOT raise them too high. Most stems have a minimum insertion mark. Make sure that your stem is inserted at least that far in. If the bar still feels to low, go to your nearest bike shop and pick up a longer stem with the same diameter. If there is no mark then make sure your stem is inserted at least 2" or 50 mm inside the fork.

If you don't insert it far enough and it either slips out or breaks off due to pressure on the handlebars, don't say you weren't warned. I have found that most bikes come with the handlebars set at the maximum height, so if you want to raise the bars, you are probably going to have to find a longer stem.

Some bikes come with what is known as a threadless fork/headset. These threadless forks usually come with long steerers which can be cut to size for different bikes. When you buy a new fork, just leave the steerer full length even if you have a smaller frame and you will have room to make your stem high enough without any bike modifications, special tools or anything like that.

About the Author: Jerry Goodwin is an avid cyclist, Medical Technologist, Personal Trainer and bicycle mechanic. Jerry and his wife Ruth have operate BMG Cycling and Fitness in Moultrie Georgia. Jerry is a member of the Pecan City Pedalers,he races his bicycle in the Georgia Golden Olympics and races BMX with his grandsons at Chehaw BMX track in Albany Georgia Check out http://www.thebicyclenut.com for more information. ------------------------------------------------------ For more on Bicycle Adjustments, see www.bestbikeguide.com.

An Electric Bicycle - Getting the Ride Done When You Can't

By Paul Neidalos

Do you enjoy bicycling, but find yourself getting tired after getting where you are going in than having to come back? If so, then you might want to consider investing in an electric bicycle. This type of bicycle does not solely rely on your feet, nor does it solely rely on a motor. They allow you to choose whether you want to peddle the bike or whether you want it to run on its own.

While it may seem counter intuitive to have a bike that will work on its own, these types of bikes are great if you enjoy biking but find yourself getting tired quickly, or if you just like to be able to get where you like to go on a bicycle. It does not matter what your reason for wanting an electric bicycle is, they are just as viable a standard bicycles, and they are just as fun.

These types of bicycles are essentially made in order to take some of the work off of your hands. Imagine riding a bicycle down a long path and getting lost. After a while, you're going to get tired. With an electric bicycle, you can continue to ride your bike without getting fatigued on long rides. Additionally, if you see a bicycle because you do not have a license to drive a car, and these are good alternative for you to get from one place to the other relatively easily.

Many states require that you have a license in order to ride an electric bike. Be sure to check the laws in your state and county you can be sure you have the proper documentation before actually riding your bike.

The motors that are used in these bikes today are relatively environmentally friendly in comparison to their older counterparts. Not only that, but they are also more affordable. Technology has been getting cheaper, that is as evident in electric bikes just as with anything else.

If you're interested in getting your own electric bike, you will have the easiest time find them at biking enthusiast shops or clubs. Get information from other people to find out waiting get high-quality models at reasonable prices. Finding one or not be difficult per se, however they are not something that is usually found in normal stores. So be sure to keep your ears open when asking around in order to find exactly what you are looking for.

While some people may be opposed to the concept of motorized bike, the fact is that they are not meant to completely replace your standard pedal bicycles. There are specific instances where an electric bicycle come in handy, and if you have ever encountered one of these instances that you are fully aware of what they are.

Even the most avid cyclist can get tired on long rides. An electric bicycle picks up the pace when you just can't, and finding one is easier than ever these days.

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For more on Electric Bikes, see www.bestbikeguide.com.

How to Change a Bicycle Tire

By Alan Cassidy

One skill that every biker must know is how to change a bicycle tire. Even women must be equipped with this knowledge. Compared to chancing car tires, this is relatively easier so it should be a breeze.

Just make sure you get the right size of replacement tire and you have some tools with you such as a wrench and a screw driver. If you have them all at the ready, you can now proceed to changing that bicycle tire.

Step 1: Remove your old tire first. Start by getting a wrench and loosening the bolts on either side of the wheel. This will help you remove the whole wheel from the body of the bicycle. Make sure you keep the bolts in a place where you can easily see it so you will not lose it.

Step 2: Once you have removed the wheel, you can now proceed to letting the air from the tire out. Just use a screwdriver and push the valve. This will deflate the tire a little to make it easier for you to detach it from the rim.

Step 3: You can use the same screwdriver to remove the tire from the rim. Insert the screwdriver between the tire and the rim and slowly pry it loose. Be careful not to prick the inner tube as you might poke a hole in it. But make sure that both the tire and the inner tube will be detached from the rim. After detaching the first few parts, you can easily remove the rest even when you are only using your hands.

Step 4: Get your new tire ready. Insert the inner tub carefully. If you are going to use the old inner tube, get it out of the old tire first. If you are using a new one, slowly insert the new one to the inner part of the tire.

Step 5: Now you can insert the tire to the rim. Make sure that you put the stem of the tire on the hole of the rim. Afterwards, you can also use the same screwdriver to insert the sides of the tire on the rim.

Step 6: Place the whole wheel back to the bicycle again. Position it just like before and insert the tire. Use the wrench to secure the bolts on either side of the wheel. Make sure you have secured it tightly.

Step 7: Inflate the tire to the right level of tightness. Do not over inflate.

For more tips and advice on continental bike tires, please visit http://www.ContinentalBikeTires.net now ------------------------------------------------------- For more information on Bike Repair, see www.bestbikeguide.com.

How to Find the Best Bicycle Frame

By Alastair Hamilton

Whether you're shopping for a bike or just admiring them, the first part you notice is probably the bicycle frame. The frame is the heart of a bicycle, as well as its art.Including the basically triangular core structure that supports both seat and handlebars and the extensions that attach to the wheels, the color and the geometry of the bicycle frame not only affects the beauty of the bike, but its strength and speed as well.The pleasure and success you derive from bicycle riding will be strongly impacted by having the right frame for your physique and your purposes.

Naturally, your bicycle frame will take into dramatic account whether you ride primarily on roads or off-road.Not only are so-called mountain bike frames made of noticeably bigger "tubes," they are made of more shock resistant materials, with stronger weldings. Road bike frames have a smaller triangular geometry and the main consideration in their material is its weight.Everything on a road bike is designed to keep the rider's resistance to a minimum in order to promote fluency and speed, while a mountain bike is designed with the primary goal of shock absorption and maneuverability in mind alongside speed-influencing factors.

Even among these two main divisions, you will find major differences in bicycle frames.Road bikes used primarily for touring or recreational riding will have frames with a more relaxed geometry and more total horizontal spread front to back, while racing bikes will tighten that structure for a shorter front to back bike length.A tighter triangle and less distance between the bicycle frame and the tires acts to decrease the resistance of wind and road for a racer, as well as to increase the bike's ability to respond to the quick, minute maneuverings road racing requires.

In addition, your unique body shape and weight will also affect what kind of bicycle frame is best for your comfort and accomplishment.Standard frame measurements, made along the seat tube of a frame, take into account the length of your legs, but the relationship of your torso length and arm length to the length of your legs is also extremely important to comfort on a bicycle, and the length of the top tube of the bicycle frame must also be examined.Two riders of identical height may need completely different bicycle frames.The best thing you can do is to shop at a bicycle store where knowledgeable riders earn their living and where you are allowed to try out a bicycle before buying it.

Alastair Hamilton is a successful writer who offers a truly unique depth of experience in competitive cycling. Reach further articles on bicycle frames at http://www.bike-cycling-reviews.com, the hub of cycling information.

Bicycle Frame - Best Bike Guide

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