4 Best Design Features of City Bicycles

4 Best Design Features of City Bicycles

Bicycles are popular because they are fun to ride, a good source of exercise, and a green method of transportation. If you are in the market to purchase a bicycle there are many options available. Mountain bikes are helpful in rough terrains or areas with lots of hills because of the gear system they have.

Road bicycles are great because they are light and can be ridden at high speeds. Both of these types of bicycles are popular, but if you live in a flat, urban area, a city bicycle should be considered as well. City bikes are built for comfort over speed and have fewer gears. There are many reasons to consider this type of bicycles over mountain or road bikes.

1. Light & agile design

Unlike a mountain bike or trail bike that is designed for off-road riding, city bikes are fast and easy to pedal on pavement. They are designed with light, tall wheels and thin tires to reduce friction. For city riding, this design will maximize speed. A city bike will not have the same durability as a mountain bike but you probably will enjoy the lighter frame. City bikes are usually made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Both of these materials are some of the lightest materials while still offering strength to the frame.

People in larger cities often reside in smaller dwellings and having to go or down stairs to get to residences is quite common. The light frame of a city bike allows you to carry it on stairs and store it in on a wall rack if storage space is in short supply.

2. A powerful ride

Riding a bicycle in an urban area is fun and refreshing, especially in an environment where most people are in motor vehicles. However, it is for this reason that you need a bicycle that allows you to be alert and in control at all times. There are accidents all the time that involve vehicles and bicycles and you definitely do not want to be a statistic.

Although there are a variety of positions when it comes to bike postures, most city bikes will have an “over the handlebar” posture. This design transfers the most power and forces you to keep your head up which will allow you to be more aware of your surroundings. When you are biking in heavy-traffic areas, you will appreciate that you have more control over the bike. This riding position also allows most leg power and cuts through the air easily, allowing you great control and to keep up with traffic as needed.

3. Good suspension systems

Although city biking usually has a smoother ride than trail biking, you will probably have some potholes or cracks on your commutes. The suspension system of a city bike is designed to absorb any impacts from bumps, ruts, or obstacles in your path.

Newer models of city bikes come equipped with great suspension systems that will absorption and will keep you safer on rough surfaces. You may also find some models that have suspension seat posts. This feature will absorb vibrations, keeping you more comfortable on your rides.

4. Simple gearing

When it comes to shifting gears, less is better for city biking. You may need more gears when you ride up and down hills but most cities tend to have fairly flat terrain. City bikes will not offer the same number of gears as a trail bike but you will find that it is much easier to change gears.

When you have to keep your eyes fixed on the road and traffic, you need a bike that has simple gears. Most city bikes will offer riders three to five gears. This is enough to handle the hilly terrain found in a city that can be described as minor or minimal at best.

Jon Ardor

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