Bike Thoughts?

I'm going shopping for a new bike next week with my dad. I haven't had a bicycle of my own since I owned one with pink over-sized handlebars, pedal brakes, and a banana seat, so needless to say, it's been a while. This time around, I'm looking for a bicycle that's equipped for riding distances. I'm kind of a novice in this area, any suggestions?

images/maryruffle

10 comments

Magatha-May said...

it might be obvious... but a comfortable saddle, or a good gel saddle cover.

Anonymous said...

Most bikes these days are good for longer distances, but the previous poster is right, you want to test the saddle out to make sure it's good. Also, I have a basket and it makes life much easier.

Lacey said...

I have a Giant and love it. I concur with everyone else on the saddle. I have one with lots of cushion for the sit bone area (make sure you get one designed for women because our sit bones are in a different location than males). Also, if you plan to ride long distances, make sure you invest in the right apparel. A pair of high quality riding shorts are crucial.

Anonymous said...

Oh I am no good here, but I love my bike, it is a Specialized...I have had two of them and felt so comfortable on them...good luck!

Carol {Everyday Delights} said...

I don't think you want any advice from me - I'm still riding an old Huffy bike! But for sure get a gel seat pad!

Sara Christine said...

I'm no expert, but I have a Specialized Sirrus and I LOVE it. One rec for the tall girl - make sure your stem angles up high enough, or you'll end up slouching forward. I had bad back pain until I figured this out and got a new stem. Have fun! xo

Hello Vodka, It's Me...Kassy said...

Oh I so have a suggestion for you! I just wrote a post about this last week! Check out Haro bikes! They have great female bikes for all types of rideing, I especially adore the "Maude" and "Molly"!

http://www.harobikes.com/mtb/tab2_subNav8.php

georgia b. said...

i'm so not an expert. but the photo is lovely. i bought a vintage bike for a dollar at a garage sale in hopes of fixing it up. it was a lovely vintage olive green. it's still sitting in my garage needing much TLC.

Whatever Dee-Dee wants said...

you should get one of these cool bikes!

http://www.madsencycles.com/

stefanie said...

hey there! i work at a vintage bicycle shop and we deal with a lot of awesome old schwinns (made in chicago schwinns.) as long as they are tuned up properly, they definitely are tanks and are much better quality than many cheap bikes out there today. plus, if you live in some kind of suburb, you can most likely get one for well under $100 on craigslist or a garage sale.
otherwise, i would recommend some kind of single speed build up bicycle. the hills are tougher but your legs, as a result, will be so worth it! good luck with choosing