We often hear people complaining that buying a bicycle is more complicated than buying a car. And you know what, they’re not wrong. I mean, when you buy a car, you don’t have to worry about your fitness level, height, or flexibility. But fear not, my fellow cycling enthusiasts, because, in this informative blog, we’re going to unravel the mysteries of bicycle buying. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of two-wheeled wonders and understand the bicycle categories!
Understand your bicycling aspirations
1. Where do you plan on riding your trusty bicycle? Will it be the bustling city streets, where dodging potholes and impatient drivers is a skill of its own? Or are you more of an off-road adventurer, seeking the thrill of conquering rugged trails and muddy paths?
2. How far and how long do you envision your cycling journeys? Are you looking for short and sweet rides to the local café, or do you have dreams of embarking on long-distance tours that would make even the Tour de France riders sweat?
3. Flexibility is key! Are you as flexible as a yoga master or as stiff as a board? Some bikes require a certain level of flexibility to ensure a comfortable ride, so it’s good to assess your range of motion before making a choice.
4. Let’s talk fitness. How would you rate your fitness level? Are you an avid athlete, always seeking the next challenge, or do you prefer a more leisurely approach to exercise? Understanding your fitness level will help you find a bike that suits your needs and keeps you pedaling happily.
5. Any specific cycling goals or events in mind? Are you training for a local race or aiming to complete a charity ride? Knowing your objectives can help us guide you toward the right type of bike that will support your endeavors.
6. Lastly, let’s ponder the ultimate question: Why do you want to ride a bicycle? Is it for the pure joy of feeling the wind in your hair, the nostalgia of carefree childhood days, or perhaps the environmental benefits of reducing your carbon footprint? Whatever your reasons, embrace them and let your passion for cycling shine through.
Once you have more clarity, refer to the table below to find the bike category that aligns with your preferences.
Bicycle Categories
| Category of Bicycle | Preferred Terrain | Distance / Duration | Average Speed range (kmph) | Rider Fitness | Budget (starting in INR) | Subcategory | Other Categories to Consider |
| MTB (Mountain Terrain Bike) / Mountain Bike | Off road – where there is no road | Cross country riding is more tiring. Even 2 hrs can be tiring. | 15-20 (flat/uphill/technical) significantly faster downhill | Good core & upper body strength. Good bike handling | 40,000 | XC, Downhill, Full Suspension | If looking for riding in bad roads or some kacha roads – consider suspension hybrids or gravel bikes |
| Road | Tarmac (Mostly very good roads) | 30km + | 25kmph + | Good flexibility & endurance | 60,000 | Aero, Endurance, Climbing, Gravel | Flat Bar Road Bikes, Gravel, Touring |
| Hybrid | Good & bad road – city roads or urban roads | 10-100km | 20kmph + | Moderate or no fitness | 35,000 | Rigid, Suspension hybrid, Flat bar road bike | Gravel, Folding Bikes |
| Gravel | Good & bad road | 30km + | 23kmph + (higher on-road, lesser off-road) | Reasonable flexibility & bike handling | 80,000 | NA | Road if road conditions are good or hybrids. Touring |
| Single Speed | City Roads which have not much elevation | 5km – 30km | 18kmph | Moderate | 10,000 | With Fixie or flip flop hub | Hybrids |
| Touring | Highways – state / national, reasonably good roads | 100+ km, Multi Day | 22kmph | Good endurance | 80,000 | NA | Gravel, Road |
“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.” – Lao Tzu. Well if you are confused and want a bit of inspiration, take some time and watch a video of our Kerala Tour – you may be inspired, may know what you don’t want to do however you are sure to get a break from attaining true wisdom 😉
GCN is another great source for cycling-related videos.
Bicycle Categories Photos
Here are some visual treats of different bicycle categories
And if you still find yourself pondering, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here. Our team of cycling enthusiasts is here to assist you in finding the perfect bike for your needs. Check out our website for the various bicycles & complete details. Happy cycling, and may the road rise up to meet you!
P.S.: I rode a stunning titanium beauty. Check out my review here.
