Before paying for the really expensive Specialized Hardrock and also Raleigh Burner read this. There are lots of reasons to choose a bicycle as your primary means of transportation. There are many different reasons to cycle, and some have nothing to do with being a preferred method of getting to point A to point B. Some people choose to cycle because they need the exercise. Some people are competitors in cycling. And there are others who decide to take up cycling as a hobby to share with their family or friends. When deciding to purchase a cycling bicycle, there will be a number of elements that need to be taken into account, and this is true for those wishing to enjoy cycling as a hobby, sport, or a means of getting from point A to point B. Here are some hints to help you make your choice.
How your cycling bicycle stops is very important. Brakes are very important on a bike, you need to understand how they work and what type you will most likely need for your bike. Those who do not use their bikes very regularly will be happy with normal brakes, those which simply squeeze the tire with two small pads to slow the bike down. If you decide you want your bike for more off-roading adventures, you need a different kind of braking system that can keep up with that particular style. For such cycling you should look to disc brakes, these are located within the wheel itself and are less likely to be weakened over time or worse, fail. You shouldn’t ever sit the seat at the lowest setting, which means sitting on the crossbar. Always consider that you are going to have to raise the seat up off the crossbar when you are shopping for your bike. The added space between you and the crossbar, afforded by raising the seat slightly, will make a positive impact on your level of comfort. The goal here is to create a height with your seat so that when your pedal is at its lowest position your leg should be almost (but not quite) fully extended.
The angle of your seat (also called the saddle) is also important. There are several angles you can tilt your seat at. Most people find a seat that is flat to be a bit too uncomfortable, so they tilt it the way that feels the best. The seat allows you to make this adjustment to conform to your desired riding position. You may not want to adjust the seat at all in the beginning, then after a ride realize that the way it was positioned is not the way you want it at all.
Your main priority is the physical fit of your bike. If you intend to use your bike a lot, perhaps as your main method of transport, it is important you keep this in mind. Comfort and saftey are the two most important aspects of riding a bike. By the way yet another decent option is GT Aggressor.