The Different Types of Modern Bikes and Bicycle Accessories

The bicycle is the most efficient means of single person transportation. Ever since its advent in the 19th century, there have been many different kinds of bikes. In this article we will look at what modern bikes have to offer.

The road bike is a high pressure thin-wheeled bike with drop handlebars that hang low and curve to allow for a more aerodynamic riding position. These bikes usually have a high gear ratio and a number of gears to allow for the best possible riding pace. They are designed for speed and are used in training and road racing. A track bicycle is more simple. With a fixed drivetrain, a single gear ratio, and no brakes, they are the antithesis of the bike with many cycling accessories. Because these bikes don't have a freewheel, you brake by gradually slowing and reversing your pedaling cadence. Messenger bikes are designed for rapid urban travel and are much like track bikes, but they usually have brakes and can sometimes have a freewheel and a fixed drivetrain.

Touring bikes are typically road bikes with more bicycle accessories. Panniers, packs, water bottle holders, and cycling computers are some of the more common bike supplies. They are comfortable and have many gears. Utility bikes are designed for the urban commuter. With heavier frames and tires, they also have fenders and chain guards and the capacity for baskets on the front or back of the bike. Riding position is typically more vertical than that of a road bike. Cruisers are even bigger than utility bikes. Their frames are heavier and they were the standard American bike in the middle of the 20th century.

Mountain bikes have thick wheels, heavier frames and treaded tires. Some of the more popular bike accessories for these bikes are hydraulic shocks, which help the rider resist bumps and divots. These bikes typically have many gears, often as many as 28.

Recumbent bikes allow the rider to sit and pedal. The frame is triangular and the pedals and chain are at the front of the bike with the handlebars in between the legs.

BMX bikes are trick bikes, designed to race on dirt hills and BMX tracks. Their small treaded tires are ideal for bouncing and jumping and most do not have brakes. Typically these bikes have a single gear ratio and a freewheel.

These are the primary styles of bikes. Of course, there is much room to customize one's bike to one's specific needs, with the many bicycle accessories available.


------

Bike Ahead is your source for bike supplies and accessories, including LED bicycle lights, heart rate monitors, cycling computers, GPS units and more.