All About Your Bike

By David Fiedler, About.com Guide to Bicycling

Bikes are very cool things. They are simple to operate, yet there can be lots to learn. Here's where you can find out how to pick just the right bike for you. You'll also get tips and tricks on how to ride it and how to perform basic maintenance and repairs to maximize enjoyment and minimize expense.

1. How to Buy a Bike
2. Basic Bicycle Maintenance
3. Types of Bikes
4. Where to Ride
5. Avoiding Common Problems

How to Buy a Bike

The first step in safe and comfortable riding is in finding the right bike for you. Find out here about the different types of bicycles on the market and how to find just the right one for you.

• How to Find the Right Bike for You
• Bike Sizing Chart - What is the Right Size Bike for Me?
• What Kind of Bike Pedals Should I Use?

Basic Bicycle Maintenance

Keeping your bike in good working order is important for your safety. It's also smart because regular maintenance can save you money by preventing bigger problems. Plus it gives you more time on the bike and less time in the shop. Learn more here about basic bicycle fixes you can perform at home.

• Five Basic Safety Checks You Should Do Before Each Ride
• Four Easy Tune-Up Tricks
• Seven Essential Items to Carry In Your Saddlebag
• How To Fix a Flat Tire

• How To Patch an Inner Tube
• How To Install Clipless Pedals
• Bike Spoke Maintenance
• Common Spoke Problems

Types of Bikes

There are many different types and styles of bikes out there. Learn the differences between them, and figure out which one is best for you.

• All About Road Bikes
• All About Mountain Bikes
• Easy Riding on a Recumbent Bike
• Non-Traditional Bikes - Viva la Difference!

Where to Ride

Here's a guide to finding great places where you can ride your bike - safely and enjoyably.

• Best Route Mapping Programs
• Picking a Great Bike Path
• Riding Safely in Traffic

Avoiding Common Problems

Some problems seem to pop up frequently. Here's a guide to identifying and preventing those common pitfalls that can sour your bicycle excursions.

• Avoid Common Problems: Five Quick Checks Before Each Ride
• Dogs and Bikes: When Man's Best Friend Isn't
• Simple Steps to Avoiding Flat Tires
• One Solution to Easing Numbness and Soreness in Your Arms and Wrists