Bicycle categories – how to choose?

It is challenging to summarize in one article what needs to be known about different bike categories and which one is the right choice for whom. In the first chapter of this series, we will discuss the types of bicycles that may be suitable. In the Balaton region, there are numerous areas of use. Some want to bike to the lángos stand with their family, others want to hit the trails with a mountain bike, and some aim to cycle around the lake during a gravel tour.

Let's explore the categories worth considering and which ones we'd like to address in separate chapters:

• Cross and trekking bikes
• Mountain bikes
• Gravel bikes
• Road and fitness bikes
• City bikes
• Kids' bikes
• Electric-assist versions of the above categories

To choose the right one, it's essential to ask two questions:

„Where to use it?”  and „How to use it?”

The question "Where?" primarily refers to the terrain, topography, road conditions, or lack thereof, including the typical conditions in inhabited areas. With the question "How?" we seek to answer whether the usage is more performance-centric and sporty, or if comfort and a relaxed riding posture are more important. Considerations include the distances we plan to cycle, the necessary additional equipment, whether we are riding with family or children, etc.

How to differentiate bicycle categories based on the 'Where?' question:

Consider a mountain bike when tackling challenging terrains, rocky or root-covered paths, mountains, and steep slopes. If safety is a top priority and you rely on the bike's suspension, mountain bikes, especially those with both front and rear suspension, are the most suitable. Cross bikes are handy on paths that don't require advanced biking skills and on non-paved roads.

For those aiming to travel quickly on light terrain, it's advisable to choose drop-handlebar gravel bikes.

If your cycling is predominantly on asphalt, then road, fitness, trekking, and gravel models are worth considering. The latter two types are also suitable for non-paved rural roads. The categorization of settlements, as locations, is determined more by the necessary additional equipment (lights, luggage rack, etc.) than by the type of road surface. It's worth noting that purchasing a complete bike, which includes the necessary accessories, is much more economical than buying them separately over time.

How do we cycle, and which bike suits us?

Do we prefer a comfortable or sporty riding position on the bike? This is determined by how sportily we pedal. Most people generally strive for comfort. For example, if we mainly cycle on asphalt for recreational purposes, a road bike or a fitness bike may be suitable. On the drop-handlebar road bike, we ride with a more leaned-forward, aero position, while on the straight-handlebar fitness bike, our back is more upright. The latter offers greater comfort but comes with higher air resistance.

Trekking and cross-touring bikes support a more comfortable riding posture. However, if we are considering performance-centric tours with luggage, we can choose a drop-handlebar gravel bike in the style of a road bike.

The mountain bike market offers a wide range of options, primarily categorized based on suspension travel and whether they have front suspension only or both front and rear suspension. Those who tackle various terrains more aggressively should consider a full-suspension mountain bike. Full-suspension bikes not only provide greater safety but also offer enhanced comfort on diverse terrains.

The urban bike doesn't mean the same thing for everyone. For some, it's important to commute with a cheap, simple bike that they can comfortably lock in front of the beach. Others choose an e-bike for commuting, even if it costs a million, just because they don't want to break a sweat while crossing the bridge.

In the realm of 'How do we cycle?' it's also important to consider that the bike will serve multiple purposes, such as both for sports and commuting. Most dedicated city bikes are less suitable for sports, whereas a fitness or gravel bike can be a fully functional means of transportation. Not to mention trekking bikes equipped with city gear. Women's frame bikes are less commonly used for sports, but sporty women can easily handle a traditional frame bike for everyday commuting.

With electric assistance:

With electric assistance, essentially, we can purchase any of the above categories, albeit at a considerably higher cost. E-bikes are addressed separately, as the selection process differs from traditional bikes. If chosen wisely and used intelligently, an e-bike can provide the same sporty experience as non-assisted bicycles, with the added benefit of expanding boundaries in every aspect.

Children's bikes:

Safety, as low weight as possible, and minimal unnecessary accessories – these are sensible considerations. For younger kids, despite how much it may pain us, the crucial aspect is to be as cool as possible and to shine in their favourite colours. As they grow, functionality becomes more prominent. For more details, refer to the 'Children's Bikes and Accessories' chapter.

As we approach the end of our introductory section, it's worth mentioning the significance of choosing the right size when selecting a bike. Finding the ideal size that suits our physique and style is more important than brand or minor differences in features. It often happens that in a particular brand, the medium size is small, while the large is already too big. The perfect model for us might be between two sizes. In another brand, the medium size might be just right. In such cases, it's worth setting aside brand loyalty, overcoming habits, and choosing a bike that truly fits us.

In the upcoming parts of our series, we will systematically explore each category so that you can precisely identify which bike is the right fit for you...

By renting from BalatonBike365 Ports, you can try out any bike in the stunning Balaton surroundings, making the decision even easier!