Current
social challenges in the country may be a good excuse for one to
explore the world of multi-purpose bicycles.
Today, there is more to the bicycle than
just a human-powered, pedal-driven, single- track vehicle. Beyond the
crude structure that, as many will remember, a former minister once
advertised as an alternative model of transportation, designers are
coming out with super sleek, stylish and modern bicycles.
In various parts of the world, with
clearly mapped out tracks and lanes, bicycles are a preferred means of
transportation. But, here in Nigeria, the absence of good road networks
has seen bicycles confined to just being ridden in reserved places or by
the younger generation. Yet, especially now that it is an expensive
luxury to own a car and even patronise a public bus, there may be a
need to check out some of these trendy bicycles.
Not only do they serve as a form of
exercise, many of them are also environment friendly. They can also be a
great way to run errands, commute to work or for touring or racing.
Whatever the goal is, there is a bicycle that fits in.
These modern bicycles are trendy largely due to devices with which they function.
One of such devices is the ibike. This
light-weight wireless bicycle computer system automatically turns any
iPhone or iPod touch into a personal fitness trainer. The device creates
an entirely new category of interactive cycling devices that enhance
the cycling experience. It also transforms biking from leisure to
fitness, helping the user to quickly reach the goals by measuring
speed, power, heart rate, wind speed, time, trip, elevation and
calories to become healthier and fitter.
According to the makers, with the
device, the user forgets the “no pain, no gain” myth, as the iBike Dash
CC tells ‘how hard is too hard’.
It also tells you when the cycling
effort is optimal for burning fat; how many calories have been used
during the ride, the speed and distance being travelled and the bike
route. It can also be fitted onto a bicycle, iPhone or iPod touch. Some
of its other features include 50 power-based and Heart Rate (HR) zone
workouts, user customisable touch screens, easy-to-read large fonts with
back-light display for night-time viewing, iPhone’s GPS, map, and
weather predictor.
The Electric Bike is another class of
trendy bicycles. Its benefits are numerous and not limited to the fact
that it can be used to tour the town as a means of transportation. It
does not emit much smoke like other vehicles using petrol or diesel.
Extreme Max E falls into this category.
At 42 kilogrames, the bicycle can be quickly folded or placed an
optional storage case on wheels, recharges in less than six hours and
has aluminum disc brakes front and rear. This bike seems good for
anyone looking for a fun and easy way to get out and about.
The Fold and Go Three Speed Electric
Tricycle is also there for people who need a folding brand that can be
stored in a small space. Its low step frame makes it ideal for the
elderly, mobility-challenged people, and people who have balance
issues.
The motorised bikes, as the name
suggests, are bicycles with motors attached to them while their main
feature is the presence of both pedals and motorised engines. The
optibike R Series is an example. Designed for long range touring,
off-road rallying, and low maintenance commuting, the bike has a front
and rear suspension, hydraulic disk brakes, lightweight aluminum
handlebars and Mavic wheels that give the confidence and safety of
precision handling required in the most technical rides.
Choosing the right brand
Your first consideration is to know
where you’ll be riding: on pavement, dirt trails or both. Some bicycles
are made specifically for a particular kind of riding surface, while
others are versatile enough that, perhaps with a quick tire change, they
can be ridden in more than one category.
Road Bikes are designed
for riding on paved streets and going fast. Featuring skinny tires, a
lightweight frame and a riding position that puts you bent over the
handlebars, you might choose this type of bike if travelling longer
distances at higher speeds is important to you.
They are generally lighter in weight
than the typical mountain or comfort bike and are good for multiple
pavement uses – including fitness riding, commuting, long-distance/event
rides, touring and racing.
Mountain Bikes have
exploded in popularity over the past 20 years. These bikes have wide
tires, usually with knobby treads and a stout frame, and are designed to
handle the rugged trails without disintegrating.
Mountain bikes do not go as fast as road
bikes, which is a trade-off for their durability along with a more
comfortable riding position. You sit higher on these bikes, more upright
with the straight handlebars, which is often a happier choice for
people with back problems than being hunched over as you are on a road
bike.
Hybrid Bikes are a
compromise between road and mountain bikes and offer the features of
both if most of your riding will be shorter trips on pavement. With
skinnier, smooth tires, they typically can go faster than mountain
bikes, yet feature the upright seat and handlebar position that many
people favor.
Hybrids are a good choice for most city riding, and offer speed, durability and comfort.
Cruisers are bikes that
have wide tires, wide seats, upright handlebars and sometimes even just
a single gear. These are the bikes that you’ll often see at the beach.
More simple mechanically, they are easy to maintain but work best with
flat terrain and a rider whose main interest is more about being
comfortable than with going fast.
Urban and Commuting Bikes are
best for pavement or some gravel roads. Designed with city streets in
mind, urban bikes are rugged and sturdy with tough frames and strong
wheels. They feature an upright riding position that supports the
rider’s structure.
Recreational Bikes are best for pavement or gravel/dirt roads.
These bikes emphasise comfort and ease of handling. They are ideal for riding around flat neighborhoods, parks and bike paths.
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