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Presently there are umpteen types of bicycles available. Still, the standard safety bicycle design arose in the 1800's is the basis of our current cycle designs.
The types of bicycle most usually employed today are mountain bikes, cruisers, touring bicycles, racing bikes, BMX's and utility bikes.
The category a bicycle falls in depends on a variety of elements; design of construction, number of riders, gearing and propulsion.
Mountain bicycles were meant for trail and mountain riding where the trail is tough. The frames are constructed to resist the rough treatment of riding in natural settings. In addition, special tires and geartrain make it easier for riders to get the power they require to keep moving.
BMX bicycles are another unique design. These bikes typically have little 16 - 24 inch traction treaded wheels. They are small framed, making them easier to operate and much faster. BMX bikes are typically employed for racing and even for doing wild tricks.
Racing bicycles are built for road biking and they're all about speed. They are light weight and have excellent handling. Racing bicycles use drop handlebars, placed lower than the saddle. This puts the riders body in the best possible aerodynamic position. The closeness of the derailleur gear ratios permit the rider to pedal at the most efficient cadence.
Touring cycles are unique in that they have racks mounted on them to carry the riders gear. These racks are attached to the frame of the bicycle in front and back. The wheel base is also longer than on a standard bike, which makes it capable of carrying more weight. Also, features such as wider wheels and additional water bottle mounts are normally incorporated.
Tandem bicycles carry two or more riders at once. Tandem refers to the way the seats of the bicycle are set up, and not to the number of passengers it will carry. All the riders of a tandem cycle pedal, supplying power. In most tandem set ups, the front rider controls the steering just like in a standard cycle.
Low rider bicycles are usually home-built, over-the-top custom-made bikes. They have usually got an old-school curled banana seat with a super tall sissy bar. Ape-hangers are the norm for handlebars, giving the bicycle a "chopper" look & feel. They are usually chromed to the hilt and have glittering, high spoke-count wheels.
Recumbent cycles & trikes are constructed so that the rider is leaning back in a low-statured posture. Also normally refered to as 'bents. The seat supports the riders back and the legs are extended forward to the pedals. The seat and pedals are typically at the same height. Tires used on 'bents are commonly smaller and further apart than they are on an upright bike. Recumbents can be steered using either over- or under- seat steering.
There are other types of human powered vehicles referred to as "bikes" as well. Though they're not technically regarded as bicycles, they work on the same general principles. They include unicycles, tricycles and quadracycles. A blast to ride, no doubt, none of these styles are employed very often.
Despite the large number of bicycles that are commercially available, there are always those that want to construct their own. Building a bicycle, trike, or tandem at home is fun and not terribly difficult. In fact, almost anyone with a dynamic attitude, a a couple of tools and some simple instruction could build a good bicycle.
It can be done in a shed or garage and it's a great project. For individuals that want a custom-made cycle without the custom built cost it's a great alternative. The bike you build could bring back a old-time design or lead the way into the future of cycle building.
Whether you resolve to ride a factory contructed bicycle or a unique custom cycle, the significant thing is to get out there and ride! Next time, we'll talk about the important matter of bicycle safety.
For more information about Do-It-Yourself Bicycle Building, visit: biblioflip.com
K.L. "Vin" Hayes heads a team of autonomous writers and researchers. Over the last 10 years, they've worked together to produce high-quality digital reprintings of vintage documents & books as well as original works. Vin specializes in how to information that includes a broad assortment of matters such as fishing & hunting, hobbies & crafts, construction, self- improvement and more.
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