Our suggestion is to come in and look at a few. We have got great bike models for every type of cycling and we can explain the differences and even arrange a test ride if you want, so you can feel the ride.

In making a selection, it helps if you can tell us how you will use the bike, where you would like to ride and approximately how much you want to spend. If you are not sure, consider where you live and what the roads, paths and trails are like. Talk to friends who bike to find out what types they prefer, where they ride and what they recommend. (If you plan to ride with these friends, you will want to get the same type of bike that they ride.)

Also, think about other purchases you make: are you a get-the-best, cost-is-no-object shopper or do you think of yourself as frugal? Do you like the latest high-tech gadgets or prefer simpler, more traditional designs. If you can answer some these questions, you stand an excellent chance of making the perfect purchase.

Keep in mind that cycling is a sport that grows on you. Many devotees start with one bike and end up with a bunch, each ideal for its intended purpose. For example, an enthusiast will have an off-road bike for hitting dirt trails and a road bike for cruising on blacktop. If she is married, she might also have a tandem so her husband can join the fun. Or perhaps a hybrid equipped with a basket for running errands around town.

Obviously, we are not suggesting that you start off by purchasing a garage-load of two wheelers. But, it takes some pressure off the decision process when you realize that no one bike is going to do it all. It is best to start with the bike type that seems best for how you will ride now. And then, as your riding interests expand, there are plenty of other models you can consider.