It is all too easy to get wrapped up in the whirl of technology in this modern society. Too often we are left cooped up inside with a screen planted in front of our faces. Many use the excuse of not having the time or energy to exercise. Riding your bicycle forces you to be outside reaping those many benefits such as fresh air and sunshine just to name a few. Biking is not only a great form of exercise it is something that most people can benefit and enjoy. It is fairly inexpensive, easy for those at all ages and varying health levels, fun and good for the environment. Depending on your wants and needs, there are different types of bikes for sale to suit you.
Biking Benefits
Mental Floss gives us a few reasons as to why the outdoors are beneficial to our health. A favorite reason listed is that being outdoors gives you energy. There are studies that show being outdoors for just twenty minutes is equivalent to one cup of coffee! A few other great reasons are that being outdoors is good for your vision, relieves stress and helps mitigate chronic pain. Scientists have done studies where breathing in what are called phytoncides, which are airborne chemicals naturally produced by plants, can increase your white blood cell levels. White blood cells help fight off infections and diseases. What this does is help boost your immune system helping you live a healthier life. Not to mention the free aromatherapy from being outside. The natural scents have been proven to help relax you and relieve stress. Speaking of stress, SAD (seasonal affective disorder) symptoms such as anxiety, sadness, and exhaustion, can be lessened by spending time outside. Even if the weather is cold or overcast, doctors recommend spending time outdoors to reduced SAD’s severity. These few great reasons are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the perks of spending time outdoors.
So why should you choose biking for your outdoor activity? Being active is a crucial part of a healthy life. A study by YMCA has shown those with a physically active life have a 32 percent higher well-being score over those who are inactive. Exercising releases adrenaline and endorphins, two amazing, natural mood-boosting chemicals. Biking, or often times called cycling, is a low impact sport that’s easy to implement into your everyday life. If your route allows you to do so, biking to work or to your errands not only gets your exercise in but helps reduce pollution from using your vehicles. Being a low impact form of exercise, it is available for a wide range of ages and health levels to participate. Cycling puts very low pressure on joints, making it easier for those with current injuries to exercise. It’s a great way to lose weight, build muscle, and increase stamina and strength. Depending on what your needs and wants, there are different types of bikes to fit different needs and styles.
Types of Bikes for Sale
Bicycles come in many styles and have different features for different needs. Bicycles Unlimited has five bicycle categories; city/hybrid, mountain, BMX, e-bicycle and road bikes.
- City/Hybrid: This type of bike is light and versatile. It’s a general-purpose bike often used for commuting because of its ability to traverse a variety of terrains and conditions. The tires are wider than road bikes but thinner than mountain bikes. This allows you to ride on city road but also light off-road use as well, such as gravel or dirt paths. They feature high gear ratios allowing you to shift easily and change your pedaling difficulty.
- Mountain: This type of bike is built for exactly what it’s called, mountains, or off-road riding. These bikes are built for durability and are a bit more rugged than other bikes because of the expected rough riding. The frame is quite sturdy and is equipped with more intense front-end and rear suspension over other bikes. Most come with 20 plus speeds and high gear ratios, allowing you to adjust for the different types of trails you may experience. The tires are wider and have more tread than other bikes would accommodate for the rugged terrains.
- Road: This type of bike is extremely light and made for speed. Sometimes these bikes are referred to as racing bicycles. They are meant to be ridden on paved roads and are built to be ridden frequently and for long periods of time. The tires are quite skinny to help minimize road resistance and provide more aerodynamics. A big difference from this bike to others are the handlebars. Road bicycle handlebars are dropped to allow the rider to lean forward, creating less air resistance.
- BMX: BMX stands for bicycle motocross. This type of bicycle is an off-road sport bicycle and used for racing and stunt riding. BMX bikes are designed for shorter sprints and stunting as opposed to mountain bikes that are made for longer trail riding with rougher terrain. The frames of BMX bikes are smaller, lighter and sturdier than others. The knobby, thick tires allow for them to grip rough terrains and allow for higher impact. This type of bike can be used for around-town riding but is mainly used for stunt off-road riding.
- E-Bicycle: The e-bicycle, or the electric bicycle, is a new type of fun. This bicycle is integrated with an electric motor allowing you to propel yourself forward with more than just your leg power. E-bicycles can go to speeds upwards of 30 mph! This bicycle can help replace your car for around town commuting. Riding your bicycle to work will take on a new meaning. This easy-breezy riding will have you arriving without being covered in sweat. The electric bicycle’s battery can easily be charged at any household outlet allowing you to be ready to roll at any time.
Whether you’re a beginner cyclist or a seasoned rider, you need to consider what features would suit you best. Whatever you end up deciding, cycling is a great addition to your life. The health benefits alone should convince you to start cycling today. If you’re not sure where to start, or what would be best for you, seek out a professional to guide you. Bicycles Unlimited have many different bikes for sale, bike repair, service, and tips to find great trails. Contact us here to get started on your biking journey.
