Gear

Five factors to consider when buying your first road bike

From frame material to gear ratios, how to make sure you buy the right bike

From bike shop to mountain pass – a steed that meets your needs will vastly increase your pleasure in cycling. pic: ©Media24
Carbon fibre frames are popular among endurance riders and racing cyclists for their strength to weight ratio. pic: ©Media24
Start with getting the right frame size before dialing in your position with a bike fit. pic: ©Mike Cotty
Sportive geometry is designed to offer more comfort for all day rides. pic: ©Media24
Making sure that you have adequately low gearing will really help in the hills. pic: ©Media24
Materials and rim profiles differ so check to see what is most suitable for your intended use. pic: ©Media24

Summer has arrived, for the moment at least, and with the Tour de France just weeks away there has never been a better time to join the cycling frenzy. Buying your first road bike should be as pleasurable as the ride itself.

Getting the right steed for your needs will go a long way in ensuring that your experiences of cycling are positive from the very first pedal stroke, sportive, mountain pass and beyond. If you’re looking for advice on what to look for when making those all important decisions, here are our tips on what to consider before handing over your cash.

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