Dropped vs. Upright Handlebars

Drop it! Road bikes come equipped with both dropped handlebars and upright straight bars. Most experts would agree that dropped handlebars are definitely the way to go. Upright handlebars saddle the rider with inefficient aerodynamics, less balance, less stability, and less traction for steering. In addition to those performance issues, it also prevents the optimum use of leg muscles, and hurts the lower back.

*Dropped handlebars offer the rider several positions for not only the hands, but the wrists and arms, reducing fatigue and monotony.

Women's Bikes

Historically, women have had a tougher time fitting themselves for a quality bike. And shorter women often find it even more difficult. The main problem is that even though most women are smaller than men, they often have longer legs. Shorter women will find that a frame with an appropriate seat tube length will leave them unable to reach the handlebars. Many good manufacturers are making women's bikes to accommodate body differences. Just keep on testing bikes until you find the right fit. And don't only limit yourself to women's bikes either. Try everything. Being overstretched on a ride will cause stress to your arms, back and shoulders.

Mountain Bike Rules

Like most any other sport, mountain biking has its own set of official rules that you should get familiar with if you plan on getting into the sport. Developed by the International Mountain bicycling Association or IMBA, the rules are meant to minimize human impact on the environment, promote safety, and to encourage good relations between all trail users.

*To look at IMBA rules, you can go to http://www.imba.com/about/trail_rules.html

Battery Powered Lights

Don't burn out! Bicycle lights can be expensive so make sure you choose some that will be worth your money and won't leave you in the dark. Lead acid or nickel-cadmium battery powered lights, while the most expensive, are the brightest (a company like NiteRider is a reliable source for quality battery powered lights).

*Lead acid batteries cost a bit less, but have the least recharge lifetime. Ni-cad batteries cost more, but have a longer rechargeable life.

Bicycle Helmet Standards

Almost every sport or physical activity has its risks and cycling is no exception. If you're looking for assurance that your child's helmet is truly good protection, you can rest assured. Bicycle helmets are manufactured to specific standards that were drafted by committees made up of scientists, engineers, doctors, manufacturers and advocates.

Helmet standards are based upon research, studies, actual experience, and rigorous product testing (the process can often take months or even years and are updated as new materials and technologies are introduced).

Cycling Shoe Maintenance

If the shoe fits, make it last! Cycling shoes, when well maintained, will last a surprisingly long time – often much longer that regular sneakers or other types of sports shoes. To get the most out of your investment try these tips:

• Wear cycling socks so the shoes don't get stretched out and ruin the fit
• Try to walk as infrequently as possible in your cycling shoes
• Keep your bicycle shoes dry by taking out the liners and putting in newspaper to absorb any moisture
• To make them smell a bit better, try putting a scented dryer sheet in each one