Folks young and old are getting a kick out cycling everyday for entertainment and fitness. Making the right choice when deciding to purchase a road bike is sometimes easier said then done. Scott, Jamis, Hewitt, Bob Jackson and BMC are major manufactures of road bikes. Be must be sure you know what you’re getting into before investing in a road bike for yourself. Choosing the right bike will insure that you will have fun and enjoyment for years to come. You won’t go wrong purchasing your next road bike if you remember a few pointers.

Technically, road bikes are designed and produced for quickness and long range rides on smooth streets. For a more streamlined effect, road bikes have thinner tires, lighter wheels and handlebars that curve under. From ten speeds up to twenty or more, “roadies” provide enough gears to be able to conquer hills or speed along on flat pavement.

Road bikes come in different sizes to help accommodate different sized riders. Depending on how tall you are, bikes run from approximately 18.5″ to 24.8″ height wise. There are some bike manufacturers that have designed bikes for women to ride, and they are around 15in tall. You’ll need to sit on a few different sized bikes to find the height that’s just right for you.

Aluminum has been the most widely used material for bike frames. Because it’s lightweight an aluminum frame will give you a terrific ride. One of the first options for a racing bike frame, it’s aluminum. To protect against rust and corrosion, go with aluminum. And this terribly imperative.

Alloy tubing, a nice design and being well put together are some of the benefits of steel frames. Steel frames made with American SAE steel are some of the most mainstream frames around. Steel as been widely used in the manufacture of bicycle forks.

For upper-end bike frames, titanium has become a favorite material for those frames. The features that titanium frames offer can not be found in any other bike frame material. One of the most comfortable road bike frames available. The frame really comes alive because of the nature of the material used to make it. Greater quality, greater cost of course. The manufacturer put a lot into making these frames and it reflects in the price of the bikes.

Along with the frame of the bike sufficient energy should be included when deciding on handlebars. Total control of the bike and your comfort is the name of the game when choosing a handlebar. The right bar can make the difference in your fatigue level in competition as will as leisurely rides. It has been said that a 68-degree angle will provide you with both comfort and stability.

Tires come in different overall designs, some are thick and some of them are much thinner. Thick tires will have a greater amount of surface friction, because of the added surface contact with the road. You could say that, the thinner tires are the racing tires. There are many things to consider when going out to purchase your next road bike, keeping these things in mind will help you get the one for you.

Along with all of the other parts of the bike, (frame, handlebar, tires etc.), you will also become familiar with the headset, bottom bracket and seat post. You will find that the lighter the added features your bike has, the faster it will go, and you will have much better control.

Bring out your own individuality by customizing your road bike to feature your style and flare. Be unique, be a trend setter not a follower by making your road bike a one-of-a-kind expression of you!

To discover more helpful tips and important information on some of the top bicycle brands and the best road bike brands worldwide, please visit my website at http://www.bicyclebrandsdirect.com and check out the latest bicycle reviews, news, videos and more.
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Help increasing stamina?

Trying to loose a bit of weight and to increase fitness levels.

I have been jogging every night, but only manageing 1 mile on a treadmill, but i have been increasing my speed. Also been cycling 2 / 3 times a week for 15 mins at high intensity, going to work.
Cant beleive how unfit i am, any tips welcome!
Any ideas how long it takes to improve stamina

Answer
Develop a training plan that is reasonable and achievable. To increase your stamina, you have to start small and gradually move up to the level you desire.

Begin your plan with walking. Walking can improve the efficiency of your heart and lungs, increase your energy level, strengthen the muscles in your legs and help promote a good night’s rest.

Build on your walking by running if this is something you want to do. Some people can’t tolerate running as it is harder on your knees and joints than walking.

Try riding a bicycle. It is important to find a form of exercise that you enjoy. If you enjoy what you are doing, you increase your chances of success and building on that success.

Give swimming a chance as it is a great form of exercise that may surprise you. It is a low-impact form of exercise that tones your entire body and provides a great cardiovascular workout.

Push yourself past your limits. Once you begin an activity, you will begin to notice it becomes easier and you feel better both mentally and physically. This is an important key to increasing your stamina.

Walk longer distances, walk at a more brisk pace, run or ride your bike a mile farther than last week, swim more laps or increase the weight and/or reps in a strength building workout. Whatever your task, continue to build on it. You will see and feel the results.

Good Luck!