Choosing a Bike

Here are some tips to help you on your way when choosing a bike.

Where should I buy my bike? 
 Which bike is best for me?
 What size should the bike be?
 Seat Position
 Handlebars
 Pedals

Essential Bike Gear:

Helmet 
Locks 
Gloves 
Waterbottles 
Windbreaker 
Tools 
Cycle Computers 
Phone

Cycling Science by Dr Bike

Dr Bike uncovers the mysteries of how gears work, why bikes have steel wire spokes, what the pros and cons of the three main frame materials are (steel, carbon fibre, aluminium), why the bicycle is the most efficient form of transport in the world, and more!

 Tyre pressure
 Tyres - Traction versus Rolling Resistance
 Tubeless Wheels
 Taking wheels off
 Spokes
 Oiling the chain
 Frame materials
 Other Materials
 Automatic Gears
 Bikes with motors
 Downhill Bikes
 Different Types of Brakes
 Suspension
 Gears - how do they work?
 How many gears do you need?
 The Dr Bike checklist

History of the Bicycle

For almost 200 years inventors have been fascinated with the possibilities of the bicycle. Every time a new technology is developed, such as steal tubing, or ball bearings, it is applied to the bicycle. Some major inventions, such as pump up tyres and sealed roads, were developed specifically for the bicycle. The bike is still the most common and efficient form of personal transport in the world. As you trace its history, try to imagine where the bicycle might lead us in the future.
 

 

 

 

And what can we expect in the future? Automatic gears, or electronic gear shifting? An internal drive shaft (hidden within the frame) that does away with large cogs, chains and derailleurs? A bicycle that stores energy on downhills to make hill climbing easier?
One thing is certain; within your life time the bicycle will undergo several transformations, ensuring that it remains an exciting and versatile form of transport.
Bike Skills
 
 

Check your bike regularly - brakes, tyres, chain, reflectors and lights.   Work on your bike skills - the best riders are skilled riders.
 
 

Know the road rules and use them.   Biking is good for your body and the planet.
 
 

Under 10s, always ride with an adult when you're on the road.    Be aware of people and vehicles around you.
 
 

Make sure your helmet fits firmly and keep it done up.   Biking is a fun, quick, and easy way of getting around.
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