Types of Bicycles
Here are just some of the basic varieties of bicycles available commercially. Some styles are obviously meant for a single purpose, while others are good for a variety of biking activities.
Road Bike The road bike is the retail version of the racing bike and a popular style. Its dropped handlebars mean a horizontal body position for maximum aerodynamics (but not very comfortable ergonomics). Sleek and light weight, with typically thin, smooth tires, this machine is designed to go fast on paved roads. Minimal luggage capacity.
Mountain Bike Mountain bikes are built for rugged off-road riding and have knobby tires for good traction in dirt, although they have become popular with city kids and college students as everyday transportation. They usually come with flat straight bars and often with shock absorbers to take a ton of punishment, but are not very speedy on smooth roads and streets.
Hybrid Hybrids usually feature a frame geometry between that of a road bike and a mountain bike. Components may nudge the character of the bike toward one end or the other. By and large, the bars tend to be higher, leading to a more upright riding position. Hybrids are enormously popular and make good starter bikes.
Comfort Bike Comfort bikes come in an amazing variety of shapes and sizes and they're built for what it says - comfort. The more natural ergonomics like forward cranks and higher bars that many comfort bikes allow a more familiar upright sitting position. They're not built for speed or long days in the saddle, though.
Touring Bike The touring bike also comes in many styles, but the most important features are strength and durability. Touring means long trips over varied terrain, and a touring bike provides maximum capacity for luggage. It can handle front and rear pannier racks, trunk and seat bags, extra water bottles and extra tie-ons. Good all around ride, good commuter.
Folding Bike Yes, there are such things as folding bikes. And many of them are surprisingly good. The small tires don't mean less speed or more difficult pedaling. Ease of transport and their surprisingly large luggage capacity lead many people use them for international touring. Some fold down to fit in an airline-legal suitcase. Ideal for multi-modal commuting.
Cruiser (aka Beach Cruiser) The Cruiser is a retro style currently making a comeback. America's standard bike from the 30's through the 50's, these bikes sported balloon tires, sturdy frames, plush seats and lots of snazzy accessories like built-in headlights, chain guards, leather saddlebags and fringe trim. Built for casual riding in high style.
Recumbent Bike This provide a plush seat and a full back rest for much greater comfort. Recumbents come in two basic flavors: short wheel base (SWB) and long wheel base (LWB - pictured). This bike greatly reduces pain of butt, wrists, neck and back often experienced by aging bikers who ride long and/or often. Good for touring or day rides, not as good on hills.
Tandem After all these years, the tandem is still around, and more popular than ever. Available in styles from recumbent to side-by-side, they are still tops for energy efficiency and speed. Tandems have incorporated all the same new technology as other bikes, and are great for day trips or full touring as well as neighborhood cruising.
Trike The new, low-to-the-ground models are fast and efficient, but not for the feint of heart because of their questionable visibility in traffic. These make excellent touring vehicles, as they are very stable and can haul a trailer easily. More traditional tricycles are available as well, featuring higher seats and upright riding positions with two wheels front or rear.
Longtail Longtails are a new class of bikes built specifically for utility riding. With a longer rear end and lots of supporting bars to tie cords and bungees to, this bike is a mini delivery van. You can carry boxes, bags, goods of awkward and flexible shape with ease. It's the right vehicle for the person who's serious about reducing car usage.
Electric Bicycle These battery assisted bikes give you a shot of power when you most need it - going uphill, carrying a load or just the last few miles of a trip. Available in all styles from futuristic to retro and everything in between, these bikes are allowing more people to ride who might normally find it difficult. Most regular bikes can be retrofitted with batteries.
Cargo Bike OK, so maybe you won't be interested in a cargo bike as your next human-powered vehicle. This is an example of the many, many varieties of bikes available to accomplish things without using any gas. Three and four-wheeled versions of work bikes (enclosed or open) can haul just about anything (including kids) anywhere efficiently and cheaply.
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