Bike commuting is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint and improve your health and wellbeing at the same time. Though any bike will do the job, it’s much easier if you have the right bike for your riding style before you start making the trip to work on two wheels. If you’re like most people, figuring out what type of mens bicycle will work best for your new commuting style seems almost impossible. Here are a few of the best types of bikes to consider for your two-wheeled commute in Los Angeles.
City Bikes
City bikes are purpose-built for city riding. They feature an upright riding position that allows you to keep an eye on traffic while you’re going down the road. Most city bicycles also come equipped with fenders and chain guards to keep your work clothes clean as you ride. The tires are typically narrower and smoother, making it easy to get up to speed quickly. However, the bikes aren’t ideal for taking on dirt paths or roads as the tires are too narrow to provide a smooth ride.
Cruiser Bikes
Cruiser bikes are similar to city bikes but put emphasis on comfort rather than on speed. They allow you to sit upright and feature a pedal-forward design which puts less strain on your knees and joints as you go. Most men’s and womens beach cruiser models feature wider tires to give you more cushion over bumps and debris, too. However, since the tires are wider and the bikes are typically heavier than city bikes, they can be harder to pedal quickly. These types of bikes are ideal for Los Angeles commuters who like to take their time and enjoy riding by the beach on the weekends.
Hybrids
Hybrid bikes offer the best of both city and cruiser bikes. They’re slightly more nimble than standard cruiser bikes but are still relaxed enough to take to the beach when you’re not rushing to work. Most hybrids also feature multiple speeds or gears to make powering up those Los Angeles hills easy without forcing you to break a sweat. You’ll end up arriving fresh to work and won’t have to pack a spare change of clothes in your bag.
Electric Bikes
One of the best choices for riders with long commutes or those that have to carry lots of cargo frequently are electric bikes. These feature a motor that can assist you while you pedal or substitute for your pedaling on the road. This lets you ride longer without arriving at your destination with extreme fatigue. The batteries are removable and rechargeable, so you can recharge them once you get to work and again when you get home hundreds of times. That said, electric bikes are expensive. If you’re committed to commuting to work by bike, they’re a great choice. However, if you’re just testing the waters to see if you want to become a regular bike commuter, a cruiser, city or hybrid bike will work just fine.
The bike you choose for your commute can make a huge difference in how much you enjoy the experience. Think about your riding style, your commute and your comfort on the road. Choose the bike that fits your style best.
