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What Type of Bike Should I Buy?

10 Most Common Bike Types

Mountain Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Built for off-road trails, dirt paths, and rugged terrain
  • Tires: Features wide, knobby tires and strong suspension systems
  • Use: Great for trail riding, exploring, and recreational outdoor use
  • Common Features: Durable frame, responsive handling
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Comfort/Hybrid Bike

What makes a hybrid bike different?
  • Design:Combines comfort features of mountain bikes with the speed of road bikes
  • Tires: Upright riding position with medium-width tires
  • Use: Popular for commuting, fitness, and casual weekend rides
  • Common Features: Versatile design, entry-level gearing
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Kids' Bike

What’s important in a kids’ bike?

  • Design: Sized appropriately for different ages and skill levels
  • Tires: Typically smaller and more stable
  • Use: Helps kids learn balance, control, and confidence
  • Common Features: Training wheels, coaster or hand brakes
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Electric Bike (E-Bike)

What’s the appeal of electric bikes?
  • Design: Battery-powered motor assists with pedaling on hills and long rides
  • Tires: Similar to commuter or hybrid tires, depending on model
  • Use: Cuts down commute times and reduces effort
  • Common Features: E-assist modes, rechargeable battery
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Cruiser Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Comfortable and upright with relaxed frame geometry
  • Tires: Often includes wide, balloon-style tires
  • Use: Great for beach towns, flat neighborhoods, and relaxed riding
  • Common Features: Cushioned seats, simple gearing
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Road Bike

What’s the appeal of electric bikes?

  • Design: Lightweight frame built for speed
  • Tires: Narrow, high-pressure tires for paved surfaces
  • Use: Ideal for long-distance rides on smooth pavement
  • Common Features: Drop handlebars, multiple gears
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BMX Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Compact frame for tricks and stunts
  • Tires: Thick and durable for jumps and skateparks
  • Use: Tricks, racing, and urban freestyle riding
  • Common Features: Single speed, reinforced frame
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Gravel Bike

What’s the appeal of electric bikes?

  • Design: Combines road and adventure geometry
  • Tires: Wider tires for mixed terrain
  • Use: Perfect for pavement, dirt, and gravel roads
  • Common Features: Disc brakes, comfort-oriented geometry
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City/Commuter Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Designed for city riding with practical add-ons
  • Tires: Medium-width, puncture-resistant
  • Use: Daily urban travel
  • Common Features: Fenders, racks, lights
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Folding Bike

What’s the appeal of electric bikes?

  • Design: Collapsible frame for portability
  • Tires: Small-diameter tires for easy storage
  • Use: Great for travel, commuting, and apartments
  • Common Features: Hinges, latches, minimal gearing
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Niche and Specialty Bike Types

Fat Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Built for rough or loose terrain
  • Tires: Extra-wide (typically 4 inches or more)
  • Use: Snow, sand, and soft trail surfaces
  • Common Features: Great traction, rugged frames
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Cargo Bike

What is a cargo bike good for?
  • Design: Built to carry loads or passengers
  • Tires: Durable, often with load-supporting thickness
  • Use: Hauling groceries, kids, or delivery items
  • Common Features: Boxes, platforms, long-tail frames
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Touring Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Long-range geometry with pannier mounts
  • Tires: Mid-width tires for distance and comfort
  • Use: Multi-day rides and bikepacking
  • Common Features: Durable frames, cargo capacity
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Balance Bike

Why are balance bikes recommended for toddlers?
  • Design: No pedals; kids push with their feet
  • Tires: Small, stable wheels
  • Use: Teaches balance to young riders
  • Common Features: Lightweight, simple frame
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Triathlon/Time Trial Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Aggressive, aerodynamic geometry
  • Tires: Slim road tires
  • Use: Racing against the clock
  • Common Features: Aero bars, carbon frame
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Recumbent Bike

Who rides recumbent bikes?
  • Design: Reclined seating with legs extended forward
  • Tires: Varies, often medium width
  • Use: Long-distance, comfort-focused rides
  • Common Features: Back support, ergonomic setup
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Tandem Bike

What is a mountain bike used for?

  • Design: Built for two riders
  • Tires: Heavy-duty for added weight
  • Use: Couples, families, and visually impaired riders
  • Common Features: Dual drivetrain, long frame
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Fixie/Track Bike

Why do people ride fixies?
  • Design: Simple, minimalist frame
  • Tires: Slick, narrow tires
  • Use: Urban commuting, velodrome racing
  • Common Features: Single-speed, fixed or freewheel
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Beach Bike

What is a beach bike?
  • Design: Cruiser-style with extra-wide tires
  • Tires: Oversized for sand
  • Use: Riding on beach paths or light sand
  • Common Features: Simple gearing, relaxed fit
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Flat Bar Road/Fitness Bike

What is a flat bar road bike good for?
  • Design: Road frame with upright handlebars
  • Tires: Narrow to medium-width tires
  • Use: Fitness, casual commuting
  • Common Features: Lightweight, fast, and easy to control
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