Where to go to get help choosing a bike?

[Anonymous]

I don't ride a bike for over 16 years and I am out of shape. A couple of years ago I bought one at Target and it was a disaster so I just returned it. This time around I want to go to a store where I can get help from knowledge people. I am looking for a bike to ride sometimes and run some errands close by. I live in Reston and I would like to take my 18m old with me (not in a trailer, but in a seat of some sort in the bike - any recommendations?).


Anyone know of a good place to go for that?

[Anonymous]

Skip Target and go to any reputable bike store. The Conte's/FreshBikes chain of stores are outstanding, as are Spokes and Revolution Cycles. Basically you want a specialty store, people who do this for a living and can help match your needs, budget and then sizing with the right bike.

good luck and have fun!

[Anonymous]

It's been a long time since I bought a bike, so I don't know the best places to go right now. When I am in Reston, I usually go to Performance Bikes, but haven't bought a bike from them. But, wanted to offer you a few pieces of information. There are basically three types of bikes - mountain, hybrid and road. For what you are describing, my guess is that you'll prefer a hybrid. But, try all three before you decide. The lighter the bike weight, the easier they are to ride. which is the appeal of a hybrid over a mountain bike. The appeal of a hybrid over a road bike is that road bikes, while light and fast, have really skinny tires and can be tough to ride on anything but smooth roads.

Many bikes are made for men, who normally have longer torsos than women. A men's bike can be fitted to a woman with a shorter torso by replacing the handlebar stem. It is far more comfortable than having to stretch to ride.

To make riding comfortable, consider buying a gel pad for your seat and, if it doesn't come standard on your bike, purchasing a female seat. Also, you might want to try padded bike pants.

One last thing. I am an experienced rider - 20 plus years of all types of riding, long distance, before kids never took the bike out unless we were going to ride at least 40-50 miles. However, no matter how many times I've tried, I cannot ride my kids on the back. I just can't seem to stay coordinated enough not to be a danger. Last time I tried, which was just a few weeks ago, I ended up in the ER. (Baby was fine, which is what really matters). I share this because it's not as easy as it looks to have a kid on the back and riding with a kid is nothing like practicing with an empty seat.

Have fun!

[Anonymous]

We've had very good experiences at Spokes Etc in Vienna (3 bikes, various accessories).

[Anonymous]

The guys at Hudson Trails are so nice and really helpful. Explain how you ride and how you want to use the bike and they will help you make a good choice.