.png){kind=logo}
I borrowed my brother’s bike for three years, a chunky white hybrid, and we shared many adventures together. We tasted (almost) every baked good in a five-mile radius of home, I glided past cars stuck in traffic on my commute to work, and uncovered parts of London I’d never seen before. I use the term “borrowed” lightly, as I definitely rode it much more than he did!
After these three years, I felt ready to buy my own bike. Weeks of refreshing second-hand websites finally led me to Layla, my soon-to-be beloved black hybrid. “Layla” means night in Arabic, and owning my own bike felt almost ethereal.
Here’s how I chose her, and the key questions to consider when buying your first bike.
1. What do I want from my bike?
Think about how you’ll use your bike. Will it be for short commutes, peaceful rides in the park, or perhaps a triathlon? Knowing your goals will guide your choice, just like I knew Layla would primarily be for commuting to work.
To step through or not to step through?
When choosing a bike, you might first want to decide between a 'standard' frame or a step-through frame. A standard frame has a higher top tube, which can make it harder to get on and off, while a step-through frame (also called a 'stagger frame') has a lower top tube, making mounting and dismounting much easier.
Step-through frames are particularly beneficial for those with mobility restrictions or limited flexibility. They’re also a great option for anyone who wears abayas, skirts, or modest clothing, as the lower top tube allows for a more comfortable ride without obstruction. With a step-through frame, you won’t need to lift or swing your leg over the saddle, reducing the risk of your clothing getting caught when getting on or off the bike.
Hybrid bikes
Hybrid bikes are great for beginners because they’re easy to ride and work well on both smooth streets and rough paths. They’re a mix between road bikes (fast and light) and mountain bikes (strong and stable).
Hybrids usually have flat handlebars for a comfortable upright position, lightweight frames for easy pedalling, and slightly wider tyres for better grip. You can also add baskets or mudguards, so they’re perfect for city errands or staying dry on rainy days.
Most hybrids come in both standard frames or step-through frames.
If you want one bike that can do a bit of everything, a hybrid is a great choice!
Road Bikes
Road bikes are best for smooth streets and going fast. They’re light, have thin tyres, and handlebars that curve downwards (drop handlebars), so you lean forward when riding. This makes them great for long rides or exercising but a bit less comfy for everyday trips.
Most road bikes have standard frames and don’t usually come with step-through options.
Endurance Road Bikes: More relaxed and comfortable for longer rides, with slightly wider tyres for a stable ride.
Race Road Bikes: Built for speed, with thinner tyres and a low riding position. They’re perfect for racing or riding fast but may feel less comfy.
Mountain and Gravel Bikes
Mountain Bikes are tough and made for bumpy trails or rocky paths. They have big tyres, suspension and strong frames, so they’re also good for uneven city streets, like cobblestones or potholes. They’re great if you want an adventure or like exploring parks and trails. Some mountain bikes also come in step-through designs.
Gravel Bikes are like a mix between road and mountain bikes. They’re fast and easy to ride on streets, but their wider tyres make them good for dirt paths and gravel too. If you want one bike for city rides and off-road fun, a gravel bike is a great pick! Like road bikes, gravel bikes don’t usually come with step-through options.
E-Bikes (Electric Bikes)
E-bikes (electric bikes) provide extra power through an electric motor, making pedalling easier and allowing you to tackle hills or longer rides with less effort. They are an excellent option for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of cycling while minimising physical strain. This makes e-bikes especially appealing to riders with varying fitness levels, mobility restrictions, or those looking for a more relaxed cycling experience. Most e-bikes come in both standard frames or step-through frames.
2. What size do I need?
My brother’s bike was a smidge too big for me, which led to plenty of falls, aches, and scrapes! A well-fitted bike makes all the difference for safety and comfort.
When I test-rode Layla outside her previous owner’s house, the improvement was instant. I no longer felt like Superman flying; fists clenched and arms straight ahead every time I reached for the handlebars. I checked the original retailer’s frame sizing chart and adjusted the saddle height and handlebars with an Allen key as well.
Sizing tips:
Adjust the saddle height and handlebars for posture comfort.
Invest in a professional bike fit if possible.
Always go for a test ride -this also helps with ensuring the gears and brakes are working.
Different brands and types of bikes have unique sizing charts, so double-check before committing! The charts are usually based on rider height and leg length - so get your tape measures out!
3. How much do I want to spend?
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get started. Given the high rates of bike theft in London, I chose an amount I was comfortable parting with. However, buying brand-new often comes with warranties for peace of mind.
When searching for Layla on Gumtree, I stuck to a budget to avoid being swayed by pricier options. Here are my tips:
Check second-hand bikes from reputable sellers.
Visit local bike shops for expert advice.
Wait for deal periods like Black Friday.
Look for ex-display models (often discounted).
💡 Pro tip: Many employers offer cycle-to-work schemes, which can save you money on purchases, sometimes even combining the scheme with sale discounts!
4. What else do I need?
Your cycling gear matters as much as your bike and is a beautiful way to showcase your personality. Layla has a pink bell, a water bottle cage, and a cute handlebar bag for my house keys.
Essentials to consider:
A helmet
Lights and a lock for urban cycling.
Comfortable and sweat wicking activewear that allows freedom of movement. You can find loads of modest activewear options these days!
Bike bags or panniers for carrying essentials (like snacks, water, and maybe a prayer mat if you’re going out for a long ride).
Asking these four questions - What do I want from my bike? How much do I want to spend? What size do I need? What else do I need? - helped me find the perfect fit.
Buying my first bike wasn’t just a purchase; it was an invitation to freedom, fitness, and fun.
I hope these tips inspire you to take that first step (or pedal) and start your journey!
At Cycle Sisters, we’re here to support you every step of the way - from learning to cycle to joining your first group ride.
Ready to start? See if we have a group in your area here.
Still not convinced? Read about how Fatima went from novice to taking on a 1000 mile cycling challenge here.
Follow Maryam on Instagram @mazza.wazza23.
Kommentarer