When one walks into a bicycle shop these days, he or she is confronted with an overwhelming variety of colors, models and prices to choose from. What happened to the good ol’ times when it was just “off-road” or “on”? Ten-speed or fat tire? Over the last couple decades, manufactures have produced countless types of modifications and improvements to target the specific demands of a wide spectrum of riders. To keep from becoming confused, uncertain and possibly a little dizzy, it is important to familiarize yourself with what is being offered before making that purchase.

There are a few main types of bicycles that will help break down and categorize the seemingly endless number of bikes to choose from. These consist of road, mountain, urban/hybrid, and cruiser. Of course there are others, but these are the primary kinds that we’ll discuss in further detail.

Road bikes are easily recognizable by the drop bars (downward curved handlebars) that supposedly help one go faster (they certainly aren’t there for comfort or aesthetics). They have a long history and are probably what many of us remember climbing on as youngsters and precariously balancing while attempting to wobble down the street. Skinny tires, lightweight (unless they were made from the same steel used to armor tanks) and quick distinguishes road bikes. If you are looking to travel far and fast, this is certainly the way to go. The higher gears and drop bars allow you to really keep up a quick pace, discounting the extra fries you had for lunch.


Typically, new road bikes are priced higher due to extra costs in components and building the frame, which may include materials such as carbon or titanium. Yes, in this case, one would be paying more for less. But, there are many older models that are far less expensive and a great buy for those just interested in trying a road bike before shelling out the extra dough on a new one.

Mountain biking only really started in the 1980’s when old cruiser frames were converted to travel on mountain trails. Today, they are probably the most popular and recognized style of bicycles. They are very versatile, letting the rider go on or off road at a whim and capable of negotiating around and over obstacles easily (depending both on the rider and the size of the obstacle). People who want to explore the backcountry or simply want to travel an old logging road will do so on mountain bikes. Of course, there are numerous styles of mountain bikes. The purposes range from long trail rides to extreme downhill racing. But, as stated earlier, they are capable of many other things. Mountain bikes are easily converted with smoother tires and higher handlebars to accommodate more urban riding. Most can mount racks and/or fenders. But, despite that a mountain bike can be altered as such, they are still a far cry from road or urban bikes in efficiency and shouldn’t be purchased with the intention of riding around town. They are called mountain bikes for a reason. In our part of the country, they are the preferred choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to hit the trails and get away from the traffic.

One of the newest additions to the biking industry, urban/hybrid bikes have made amazing headway into the market and become very popular. This is due to their comfort, ease of operation, lower costs, and functional design. Most have flat or slightly raised handlebars, allowing the rider to sit up straighter and, therefore, be more at ease. The shifting is usually an easy-to-use system that operates gears designed for the urban environment: faster than mountain bikes and easier than road bikes. Wheel size? They make both a size similar to mountain bikes (26 in) and road bikes (700c). The 26 in. rolls a little slower but provides a softer ride and more traction in inclement conditions. The 700c is faster and more efficient.  Usually, they come with slick or semi-slick tires. A multitude of accessories can be added for various demands, such as fenders, racks, lights, and much more. Anyone who regularly commutes would find these a very practical choice. So would riders who want to go a little faster but don’t want the ever-so-enjoyable riding position of a road bike. One rarely finds used urban/hybrids for good reason: people absolutely love them and keep them forever.

Cruisers are exactly as described: made for idle cruisin’ down the road on a comfortable and stylin’ ride. Most cruisers are defined by their wide tires and flashy (yet usually heavy) frames. One might visualize an old Schwinn or Hiawatha when thinking of cruisers. There are many modern adaptations, but the basics have stayed the same for over 60 years. They aren’t meant for long rides or efficiency. They are meant to be cool enjoyable to peddle around, attracting glances and comments from others who envy the smooth curves and bright paint or chrome. They are very fun to have yet seem to be a supplemental bike for many people’s collections.

So take the time to do your research. A good method is to first determine the type of riding you will do most of the time. Choose the style that you are more inclined to use on a regular basis, not the one that would be perfect for that single trip to Moab you make each year. Next, set a budget. Some types, such as road, typically cost more. Others are more difficult to find used or discounted. Stick to your guns and don’t allow yourself to be convinced to get a Ferrari when all you need is a Toyota (ignoring any safety recalls…). Lastly, if it is economically practical, get what you are most comfortable on and happy with. Remember, this is the bike you will ride whenever possible. So make sure to ride as many different models as you can. It is amazing how one brand can be so different from another for the same price. Of course, in a perfect world a person would have one of each (I admittedly do). This is where I find you run into the problem of storing them and coming up with excuses for the wife…but that’s a whole different article that probably won’t get published.

Brian Menkhaus, and his wife, Dixie, are former owners of the Bike Peddler. Their passion for bringing joy to both new and experienced riders keeps them busy helping others find “just the right bike.”