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Bicycles cheaply: Consumer tips
Whether as an environmentally friendly means of transport or to enhance personal fitness - a bicycle is always a good choice. In recent years, the trend has clearly shifted towards E-Bikes. With an electrically powered auxiliary motor, inclines and mountain rides can now be easily mastered. The motor provides a maximum power of 250 watts and pedal assistance up to 25 km/h - this applies to so-called Pedelecs. By law, they are considered bicycles, for which neither a driving licence nor a minimum age is required. The situation is different for E-Bikes. They have a motor power of up to 500 watts and require at least a moped driving licence. E-Bikes are further divided into two variants. An E-Bike accelerates the bicycle without pedalling to 20 km/h, while an S-Pedelec offers pedal assistance up to 45 km/h. Both variants are not allowed on cycle paths unless the path is marked with the sign "Mopeds allowed". The ever-increasing lithium-ion batteries offer ranges of 50 to 200 km. The range is influenced by various factors such as headwind or outside temperature, so the realistic range usually lies between 80 and 100 km.
There are narrow racing bikes, which can achieve high speeds, as well as mountain and gravel bikes, which are particularly suitable for excursions in rough terrain. Bikepacking and tours are undertaken with trekking or touring bikes. There are hybrids of racing and touring bikes, known as randonneurs. For the city, the city bike or a trendy single-speed. Cargo bikes not only transport groceries but also children to kindergarten.
The essential components of bicycles at a glance
A bicycle consists of various parts that may vary depending on the type but can generally be summarised in a universal model. All types of bicycles have a frame made up of several tubes. The frame is made of either steel, aluminium, or carbon. It supports the weight while also serving as the attachment point for all other components. These primarily include the wheels, handlebars, saddle, brakes, and drivetrain. The latter includes a chain that is set in motion by pedalling. Many bicycles have a gear system with multiple gears that can be shifted using the individual chainrings. Additionally, bicycles with hub gears are also available. These are easier to maintain than the classic derailleur gear system.
The bicycle as a companion in everyday life
If you want to use your bicycle for transport rather than for sport, the city bike for men and women is a good choice. These are often equipped with a multi-speed transmission and can have both a hand brake and a coaster brake. The tyres are primarily adapted for asphalt, so they are neither too wide nor too narrow. The frame size and the diameter of the wheels are usually indicated in inches and denote the general size of the bicycle. Bikes that are mainly used for commuting or shopping are also equipped with a carrier, lighting via a dynamo or battery-powered lamps, and sometimes with a bicycle basket.
Sporty bicycles and their special features
Bicycles are not only used for transport but are also very popular as sports equipment. The most well-known representatives are racing bikes, mountain bikes, and BMX bikes. Racing bikes are characterised by their very low weight and very narrow tyres, which are designed to provide minimal rolling resistance and enable high speeds. A mountain bike, on the other hand, appears more robust and is equipped with wide tyres whose tread provides good grip even in rough terrain. BMX bikes are significantly smaller and typically fitted with 20-inch wheels. They have large pedals and four steel supports known as pegs on the wheels. BMX bikes are primarily used for performing tricks and stunts but are also suitable for racing.
How to make your bike roadworthy
In the UK, a bicycle must be roadworthy and fitted with effective brakes. When ridden at night, it must have a white front light, a red rear light, a red rear reflector and amber pedal reflectors. Battery-powered lights are allowed. Similar rules apply to compliant EAPCs, while faster e-bikes are subject to different legal requirements.
Tips for buying a new bicycle
- If you want to ride on the road, the bicycle must be roadworthy
- A bicycle helmet protects the head in the event of an accident
- Hub gears are often associated with a coaster brake
- To determine the correct frame size, you need to measure your height and inseam
- With the right functional clothing, cycling is even more enjoyable
- Useful accessories such as a secure bicycle lock, a pump for the tyres, and panniers are a sensible addition
