Choosing the perfect bike type

20 Feb 2019

It might seem like there are a lot of bike types, but this is mainly because they are all suited to different surfaces and terrains. Certain bikes are better for hills, some are better for muddy trails and some fold away perfectly for public transport. We've broken down the different types of bikes so that you can be certain you are getting the best bike for you!

Road Bike

We recommend you buy a road bike if you intend cycling only on roads. This will be faster and lighter than any other style of bike for road-only cycling. Great for long distance cycling with low rolling resistance allowing you to go further and faster.

Mountain Bike

A mountain bike will be recommended if you are cycling the vast majority of your journeys off-road. The riding position makes it more agile and easy to manoeuvre over uneven surfaces. It will have better mud clearance and disc brakes that will be better suited for off-road cycling.

Hybrid Bike

A hybrid bike is a mixture of attributes from road bikes and mountain bikes. Hybrid bikes are designed to go anywhere and do anything. This is the most popular type of bike to cycle to work on as it can cope with different types of terrain and are good all-rounders.

Folding Bike

Folding bikes are good for shorter commutes around cities and on road and cycle paths. They are a very useful style of bike for those who have limited space at home or work. Can be folded up to put in the  back of a car, on the tube, or next to your desk.

Electric Bike

Electric bikes are a good option for a number of different reasons. They are great for an easy commute with less effort up the hills. They are a good way for people to access cycling who are not as physically fit as they feel they should be, or used to be due to an injury.

Fixie/Single Speed Bike

Fixie, or Single Speed, bikes are great for those with a short, flat commute on roads or cycle paths. The bikes require almost zero maintenance as they have no gears and minimal components.

Adventure Bike

An interesting style of bike as it ticks many boxes, a go-anywhere all-rounder that you can ride on-road as well as canal towpaths and gravel paths. This style of bike will allow you to get outside and explore. It is more substantial to a road bike so will feel more stable when riding off-road with better mud clearance and disc brakes to handle any style of riding.

Classic Bike

A great bike if you have a short commute and you want to travel in style. They have a classic look and feel but still have all the attributes of a modern bike.

If you still need advice about selecting a bike type, just pop down to your local Halfords or Cycle Republic store and they will be more than happy to help.

Alternatively, take a look at the Halfords Bike Selector here!

Any further questions? Just give Cycle2Work a call on 0345 504 6444.