1. Plan Your Route and Itinerary:
Before setting out on your bikepacking adventure, carefully plan your route and itinerary. Consider factors like the terrain, distance, and points of interest. Websites and apps such as Ride with GPS and Komoot can help you find established bikepacking routes or assist in creating your own. Be realistic about your fitness level and choose a route that matches your abilities, especially for your first trip.

2. Invest in Quality Gear:
Your choice of gear can make or break your bikepacking experience. Invest in durable, lightweight equipment designed specifically for bikepacking. Essentials include a bikepacking-specific tent or bivy, a lightweight sleeping bag, a compact stove for cooking, and a water purification system. Look for gear that packs down efficiently to make the most of limited storage space.

3. Pack Strategically:
Space is at a premium when bikepacking, so packing strategically is crucial. Divide your gear into categories like shelter, clothing, food, and tools, and use bike-specific bags like handlebar rolls, frame packs, and seat packs to distribute the weight evenly. Keep frequently used items easily accessible, and be mindful of the balance of your load to maintain bike stability.

4. Test Your Gear Beforehand:
Never take untested gear on a bikepacking trip. Set up your tent, try cooking a meal on your stove, and ensure your bike is well-maintained before hitting the trail. This not only helps you familiarize yourself with your equipment but also ensures that everything is in working order, reducing the risk of unpleasant surprises in the wilderness.

5. Prioritize Lightweight and Compact Items:
Every gram matters when bikepacking, so prioritize lightweight and compact gear. Opt for a lightweight sleeping pad, a compact stove, and clothing that is versatile and can be layered. Minimize redundancy in your gear while ensuring you have everything you need for comfort and safety.

6. Master Basic Bike Repairs:
Being self-sufficient on a bikepacking trip includes knowing how to perform basic bike repairs. Familiarize yourself with tasks like fixing a flat tire, adjusting brakes, and addressing minor mechanical issues. Carry essential tools, spare tubes, and a multitool to handle common problems that may arise during your journey.

7. Be Mindful of Leave No Trace Principles:
Respect the environment you’re exploring by adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all your trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and stay on designated trails. Minimize your impact on the ecosystem to preserve the beauty of the natural landscapes you encounter.

8. Check Weather Conditions:
Weather can play a significant role in the success of your bikepacking trip. Stay informed about the weather conditions for your chosen route and pack accordingly. Be prepared for sudden changes and invest in quality rain gear to stay dry in case of unexpected showers.

9. Know Your Limits:
Bikepacking is an adventure, but it’s essential to know your limits. Pushing yourself too hard, especially on your first trip, can lead to exhaustion and frustration. Be realistic about your abilities, take breaks when needed, and enjoy the journey at a pace that allows you to savor the experience.

10. Embrace the Adventure:
Lastly, embrace the adventure and be open to the unexpected. Bikepacking is about more than reaching a destination; it’s about the journey, the landscapes, and the people you meet along the way. Stay flexible and open-minded, and you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

Bikepacking Pre-ride Checklist

A pre-ride checklist is essential to make sure you have all the necessary gear, your bike is in optimal condition, and you’re well-prepared for the challenges that may arise on the trail. Here’s a comprehensive bikepacking pre-ride checklist to guide you before you hit the road or trail:

1. Bike Inspection:

Check tire pressure and ensure they are in good condition.
Inspect the chain for wear and lubricate if necessary.
Examine brakes for proper function and pad wear.
Verify that all bolts and fasteners are tightened securely.
Ensure your gears shift smoothly and make adjustments if needed.
2. Essential Bike Tools:

Multi-tool with various wrenches and screwdrivers.
Tire levers for removing and installing tires.
Spare tubes and/or patch kit for repairing punctures.
Portable bike pump or CO2 inflator for tire inflation.
Chain breaker tool for repairing or adjusting your chain.
3. Bikepacking Gear:

Check that all bikepacking bags (handlebar, frame, seat) are securely attached.
Ensure your tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad are packed and secured to your bike.
Confirm you have sufficient food and cooking equipment for the trip.
Pack appropriate clothing for the expected weather conditions.
4. Navigation and Communication:

Ensure your GPS device or navigation app is functioning correctly and loaded with your route.
Fully charge your phone and consider bringing a portable power bank.
Carry a map and compass as a backup for navigation.
5. Safety Equipment:

Helmet: Ensure it fits securely and is in good condition.
Lights: Front and rear lights for visibility, especially if riding at night.
First Aid Kit: Include essential items like bandages, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Reflective gear: Enhance visibility, particularly if riding in low-light conditions.
6. Water and Hydration:

Pack a sufficient amount of water or a hydration system, considering the distance between water sources.
Water purification method, such as tablets or a filter, for refilling from natural sources.
7. Camping Essentials:

Tent, bivy, or shelter of your choice.
Sleeping bag suitable for the expected temperature.
Compact stove and cooking utensils.
Eating utensils and a lightweight cup.
8. Clothing:

Dress in layers appropriate for the expected weather conditions.
Pack a waterproof and windproof jacket.
Bring extra socks and underwear.
9. Personal Items:

Identification, insurance card, and emergency contact information.
Cash and credit cards for unforeseen expenses.
Personal hygiene items, including toothbrush and biodegradable soap.
10. Bike Lock:

If you plan to stop in urban areas or want to secure your bike at campsites, bring a lightweight bike lock.
11. Leave No Trace:
Trash bags for packing out all waste and adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

Embarking on your first bikepacking adventure is a thrilling step into the world of self-supported exploration. With careful planning, the right gear, and a sense of adventure, your maiden trip can be the beginning of a lifelong love affair with bikepacking. So, gear up, pedal on, and let the adventure unfold before you.

The post Bikepacking Adventures: Essential Tips for Your First Trip + Checklist appeared first on Bvbf.

This article dives into the common issues that can cause your front derailleur to malfunction and provides solutions to get you back on the road with a smoothly shifting bike.

Common Problems and Solutions

Front derailleurs may seem like simple components, but their intricate workings can lead to shifting issues. Here are four common problems that might be causing your front derailleur to not shift properly, along with the corresponding solutions:

1. Dirt and Grit

Problem: Dust and dirt can accumulate in the housing, causing friction and hindering the smooth movement of the derailleur.

Solution: Detach the housing and cable and ensure they slide smoothly. Cleaning the cable and applying lubricant can alleviate friction. Consider using products like Permatex 80078 Anti-Seize Lubricant, AGS SIL-Glyde Multi-Purpose All-Weather Lubricating Compound, or Slick 50 43712012 Supercharged One Lube Lubricant. Re-adjust the housing to ensure proper movement.

2. Misplacement of the Cage

Problem: Incorrect positioning of the cage (the mechanism that guides the chain between gears) can lead to shifting problems.

Solution: Adjust the cage’s height and rotation. The parallel positioning of the chainring and the cage is crucial. Sometimes intentional rotation adjustments can improve shifting, especially if the bike struggles to shift onto smaller rings. Proper cage rotation can help the chain detach smoothly, facilitating shifts.

3. Worn Out Chainrings

Problem: Over time, chainrings can deteriorate, affecting shifting performance.

Solution: Worn-out chainrings can cause shifting issues due to distorted teeth and misalignment. Ensure mounting bolts are tightened properly. Consider replacing the chainring if it’s significantly distorted. Re-bending a tooth can be an option, but replacement is generally more effective.

4. Inappropriate Parts

Problem: Using incorrect or incompatible parts from another front derailleur can lead to shifting problems.

Solution: Ensure you’re using specified equipment and parts for your bike. If you suspect incompatible equipment, check alignment and position. Replace parts with the correct ones to resolve compatibility issues.

Table of Common Problems and Solutions

Front derailleurs may seem like simple components, but their intricate workings can lead to shifting issues. Here are four common problems that might be causing your front derailleur to not shift properly, along with the corresponding solutions:

Video Guide

We suggest you watch the video, in which you will get a more detailed explanation.

Conclusion

While front derailleur shifting problems might seem daunting, understanding their intricacies can help you troubleshoot and solve issues effectively. From dirt and grit accumulation to misaligned cages and worn-out chainrings, various factors can impact the performance of your front derailleur. By following the solutions provided in this article, you can work towards smoother and more reliable shifting.

Remember, maintaining your bike’s components and understanding their workings can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience. If you find these solutions challenging, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a mechanic or a professional bike workshop.

FAQ

The post Front Derailleur Not Shifting: Common Problems appeared first on Bvbf.

Battery Issues

One of the primary reasons for a non-shifting Di2 rear derailleur is battery-related problems. Di2 systems rely on a rechargeable battery to power the shifting mechanism. If the battery is damaged, worn out, or lacks power, your shifting may be affected.

Symptoms of Battery Problems:

• Inability to shift gears;
• Unresponsiveness in gear changes;

• Dim or no indicator lights on the Di2 system.

Solution: Battery Health Check

To troubleshoot battery-related issues, start by checking the health of your Di2 battery. Using a battery tester or a multimeter, you can assess the battery’s condition and ensure it’s providing sufficient power.

Recommended Batteries:

• SHIMANO BT-DN110 Di2 Battery;
• SHIMANO Dura-Ace Di2 Battery.

Charging Tips

1. Regularly charge the battery to at least 80% to prolong its lifespan;
2. Use reliable chargers like SHIMANO Di2 Internal Battery Charger.

Activated Crash Mode

Di2 rear derailleurs are equipped with a crash mode that activates when the system detects a crash or impact. This mode is designed to protect the derailleur from further damage but can prevent shifting.

Solution: Crash Mode Reset

To resolve this issue, perform a crash mode reset. Depending on the derailleur’s speed, the reset process varies. Make sure there’s no physical damage to the derailleur before attempting the reset.

Lack of Firmware Upgrade

Not keeping your Di2 firmware up to date can result in shifting problems. Regular firmware updates ensure optimal performance and compatibility with other components.

Solution: Updating Firmware

Check the manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware version for your Di2 derailleur model. Connect your bike to a computer using a USB-C cable and follow the instructions to update the firmware.

Remember, maintaining your Di2 rear derailleur and addressing these issues promptly will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience. Don’t let shifting problems hold you back from your cycling adventures!

Comparison Table: Top Di2 Rear Derailleurs

Video Guide 

We suggest you watch the video, in which you will get a more detailed explanation. 

Conclusion

Encountering shifting issues with your Di2 rear derailleur can be frustrating, but understanding the common causes and solutions can help you swiftly resolve the problem. Whether it’s a battery issue, crash mode activation, or firmware update, following the recommended steps can get your Di2 system back to smooth and reliable gear shifting, ensuring an enjoyable cycling experience.

FAQ

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As this is their first opportunity to enjoy cycling, buying your child a bike may be an exciting moment for both you and them. Everyone can recall how happy they were the first time they swung a leg over a bike and felt the wind in their hair. It is mind-blowing to realize that exploration is now easier, faster, and farther than ever before. To make sure they have favorable and reassuring first impressions, picking the proper bike is essential.

How do you decide which style is the finest when there are so many options? It all depends on where your child wants to ride, how they plan to operate the bike, and the kind of surfaces they plan to use.

Some young people could prefer a mountain bike because they enjoy riding off-road, or perhaps someone has always wished they could ride their bike on the pavement down the street. Some bicycles may come with training wheels, while others may not. This will let your child learn to pedal with the assurance that they won’t trip.

This article will help you determine the ideal type of bike for your child based on their age, height, weight, and skill level. It will also discuss the benefits of using lead management software to keep track of your child’s progress and ensure they have the best experience possible.

Sizing

To ensure that your child has the best experience possible, it is essential to get the correct size bike. We can all agree that children grow very quickly and that parents don’t want to buy a new bike every year, but a bike that is too big could have some very dangerous consequences. It involves educating your youngster about the benefits of riding as a healthy activity and demonstrating how bikes can transform lives.

A bike that is too big will make getting on and off the bike for your youngster challenging and unsettling. Because it is more difficult to control and less steady for the user, a larger bike will appear scary. They won’t ride the bike as a result of these detrimental effects, which will lower their confidence and enjoyment.

We advise purchasing a bike that will fit your youngster at the time. In order for your child to ride comfortably, it is preferable to consider the larger size if they are between sizes. Your youngster may be able to ride a bigger bike than a child who is less at ease on a bike if they are already a confident and experienced rider.

We advise taking weight into account when determining size for a bike. The greatest bicycle to buy is the lightest one you can afford. Your kids will have a better ride on a bicycle that is lighter since it is easier to peddle and steer.

Many parents start the process of getting their kids a bike by taking their age into consideration. Unfortunately, not all 5-year-olds, nor are all 7-year-olds, or all 10-year-olds, etc., the same height. The best approach to determine what size your child needs is to measure their inseam.

When selecting a kid’s bike, a child’s inseam and height should be considered to get the best fitting bike. Click on wheel size to see our top picks for each size bike.

Finding the Correct Size for Kids’ Bikes in Four Easy Steps

The best and most precise method to guarantee a correct bike fit is to use your child’s inseam in relation to the bike’s seat height. The frame and wheel size combine to establish a bike’s seat height.

Therefore, even if your child has never had the opportunity to test out the bike before you buy it, you can ensure a fantastic bike fit for them by choosing a bike based on seat height rather than age, wheel, or frame size. This not only makes riding much simpler, but all the experts concur that safety also requires a decent bike fit.

1. Check the inseam of your child

We usually advise utilizing the inseam measurement rather than the age or height of your child, which is how most bike manufacturers determine sizing. It’s a lot more precise!

• Have your youngster put on shoes and stand up against the wall with their feet slightly apart.

• Between their legs, place a hardcover book with the spine facing the crotch.

• Lift the book till the spine firmly lands on their crotch.

• The inseam is determined by leveling the book with the floor and taking a measurement up to the spine.

2. Limit Wheel Size Depending on Inseam

You may determine which one or two bike wheel size groups your child belongs to by using their inseam. Generally speaking, it’s better to purchase a bike with a larger wheel size as long as your child’s inseam fits the bike. More stability and room for expansion are provided by larger wheels.

For instance, the inseam of the 5-year-old in the image above is 19.5 inches. She might be riding any of the THREE sizes of bikes listed in the chart below! However, when she grows, the 16′′ and 20′′ wheels will be much better for her. The ideal size between these two will be determined by the next step.

3. Determine the Ideal Seat Height (By Considering the Child’s Inseam and Riding Capability)

It’s time to think about your child’s riding skill now that you know what size (or sizes) bike is probably appropriate for them. Why? The ratio of the bike’s seat height to the child’s inseam determines whether a bike is properly fitted. However, depending on whether your child is a novice, an expert, or is using training wheels, the seat height of a bike should be adjusted appropriately.

The seat height, which is measured from the bottom to the top of the seat, can help you further reduce your options and ensure a perfect fit right away! novice riders (1st Bike After a Balance Bike or Training Wheels).

4. Purchase based on current fit and growth

You can start looking for a bike now that you are aware of the ideal seat height for your child’s bike. The ideal bike will have a minimum seat height that is as near to (but not higher than) the seat height you chose in step 3 as possible.

So that you don’t need to buy a new bike too soon, this makes the bike fit perfectly right now and provides the most room for growth.

Measurement of experience levels

Novice riders (1st Bike After a Balance Bike or Training Wheels).

Beginners should be able to sit on the bike’s seat with their feet flat on the ground. This includes graduates from balance bikes. A child should be able to stop their bike with ease using their feet at this stage. As a result, the seat height on their bike should be adjusted to match their child’s inseam.

The first pedal cycle seat for a youngster should be adjusted to the same height as the child’s inseam.

Riders with Experience: Second Pedal Bike and Beyond.

An experienced rider should be able to sit on the bike’s saddle with their tiptoes touching the ground and be able to smoothly start and stop the bike while using either a hand brake or a foot brake. Accordingly, the child’s inseam should be 2 to 4 inches above the seat’s inseam. By allowing for proper leg extension when pedaling, raising the seat, you may increase the effectiveness of each pedal stroke.

Style

Children’s bikes are now available in almost as many variations as adult bikes. It’s critical to comprehend the riding style that your child prefers. For instance, riding a flat bar commuting style bike won’t be safe or up to the severe riding if your youngster wishes to get into off-road or mountain biking. Gaining a thorough understanding of the vehicle your child will be riding is recommended.

Realistic expectations for the riding they will be performing are also crucial. Sometimes you’ll discover that your kid really wants a mountain bike or BMX, but if they mostly commute on the streets, it might not be the most fun for them to ride.

The post How to Find Your Child’s Next Bike appeared first on Bvbf.

A hybrid bike is one that combines the best features of road and mountain bikes, it is durable, comfortable and fast, ideal for riding on the streets and bike paths.

Features of hybrid bikes:

More upright seating, comfortable riding position.
Use of a shock-absorbing fork that absorbs potholes.
Wide enough tires for better traction and riding stability.
Lightweight alloy frame for a fast ride.
Lightweight components and plenty of speed.

The wheels on a hybrid bike are a true combination of what you would find on road and mountain bikes. Wide enough like a mountain bike for more stability and durability, but with more recommended air pressure that puts them on the same level as a road bike. The high air pressure in the tube allows you to go faster by reducing rolling resistance.

The rims and spokes on a hybrid are lighter, the same as a road bike, since you’re not expected to do serious off-road riding like you would on a mountain bike.

Hybrid frame.
Most hybrid bike frames are made of lightweight aluminum or steel (also called “chrome-moly”), strong and durable materials, with a (relatively) low price tag.

Handlebar and fit
The handlebar on a hybrid bike is usually flat, like on mountain bikes, and comes straight out of the stem. With a wider handlebar, usually at shoulder width, it allows the rider to sit upright and offers a better position to see the road and control the bike than the handlebars on a road bike.

Like a mountain bike, the hybrid’s design allows riders to sit upright, which gives them better control of the bike with good center of gravity capabilities and in a posture that reduces strain on the neck.

Transmission
Gears: Hybrids have a wide range of gears to allow the cyclist to climb hills and go fast on descents.

Typically, a hybrid bike will have two or three front sprockets. You will find eight or nine gears per rear wheel in the cassette, totaling up to 16 to 27 possible gear combinations to suit almost every stretch of road.

Pedals: Classic hybrid bikes have a platform pedal. More advanced riders prefer to use contact pedals with special shoes to provide a more professional ride. But here you need to consider frequent stops when riding on uneven terrain and this type of pedals can cause some discomfort.

Hybrid Accessories
For hybrid bikes include a bike computer, pump, tool bag, water bottle and spare tube. That’s about all you need to have with you when riding in the city.

The best known manufacturers of hybrid bikes are Cannondale, Specialized, and Trek.

Tips when buying a hybrid bike
A hybrid bike is a good choice for city riding. The key to buying a good bike is to find decent components. The moving parts are what will determine how well your bike will function and for how long.

Also, if you’re going to use your hybrid bike for commuting, look out for accessories that can make your ride easier and more comfortable, such as headlights, a rack and lock, these can come right out of the box with many models.

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This type of bicycles is quite rich in its variety. Among the two-wheeled representatives of the urban type, you can meet as classic bicycles (with a rack and fenders), as well as quite unusual models that combine comfort, speed, as well as practicality.

Sometimes, an inexperienced buyer in a bike store, it can be difficult to understand the difference between a mountain bike and a road bike, because some models of different types may be similar to each other. And yet, no matter how original looking modern city bikes, they have one thing in common – they are all created to move around in the city.

As you know, bicycles for urban riding, especially still Soviet-made, are very popular with dacha owners and people who live in the countryside, who carry on the trunk of the crops from the garden, etc. With such a purpose and buy them mainly. This bike, by the way, to leave in the cottage is much safer than a more advanced model, which the thieves would instantly notice. Although nowadays, as I have repeatedly convinced, absolutely everything is stolen.

Now let’s move directly to the construction of a city bike. Most often on modern sitibikes you can find the following:

a large rear rack;
a front basket;
a wide, cushioned, sprung saddle with leather or vinyl padding;
adjustable handlebar;
a metal shield on the chain and fenders.
Brakes are most often drum foot brakes, but there are also rim or even disc brakes. There are no shock absorbers. Transmission can be without a shifter or with a complex planetary rear hub. As a rule, universal sitibikes have only one or a few gears. There are multi-speed models with a cassette mechanism (from 7 to 21 speeds), but it will be rather low quality.

The frame of a road bike is long and mostly steel (aluminum ones are less common), there is a closed type (male) and open (female). Seating is high, and the weight of the bike is usually in the range of 15 kg. The fork is curved at the bottom and slightly elongated, which to some extent softens the impact of the front wheel on the rough road.

Wheel size at city bikes is usually from 20 to 28 inches, so you can choose the most comfortable option, and also have clincher tires with high wear resistance, medium width and a fine tread pattern. Some models are equipped with an additional footrest, rearview mirror, electrical equipment (headlights), a bell, anti-theft lock, etc.

As you have already realized, they are not intended for sports use, although some people still manage to race these bikes. But this is probably the exception to the rule.

The riding position on a city bike
Now let’s talk about seating on a Citybike. The cyclist sits almost upright, with his back only slightly tilted forward. There is practically no strain on the arms, because the handlebar is at abdominal level, which increases the efficiency of maneuvering, as well as improving visibility of the road.

Because of the “wrong” distribution of forces, the efficiency of pedaling is quite low, because the city bike is not intended for long distance travel and fast riding. A wide and soft saddle (with a shock-absorbed seatpost or springs) gives the illusion of comfort. But this is far from it, because even after a short ride the saddle begins to rub and the heel “sweats”.

Types of city bikes
Today, modern city bikes can be found in different designs, that is, there are several subspecies, which include:

Cruisers
Choppers
Comfort
Folding
Tandems
Hybrids
Fixes
Now let’s look at the main advantages and disadvantages of city bikes.

The advantages of city bikes are:
A wide range of types for all needs;
beautiful and elegant appearance;
comfortable ride due to high seating, comfortable saddle, etc.;
good speed and rollability due to smooth tires;
easy and cheap maintenance;
practicality in clothing (you can ride in whatever you like);
low cost in contrast to sports bikes.
The most wearable mechanisms – gears and brakes, there is simply no or well protected from dirt, so they require minimal maintenance, which is also a good advantage.
The disadvantages include poor road and dirt handling due to the narrow tread of the wheels. Also classic road bikes are quite heavy, because they weigh about 15-18 kg, depending on the configuration and in comparison with mountain bikes – a much lower speed.

The post City bike appeared first on Bvbf.

the frame material is steel, aluminum, chrome or titanium
a luggage carrier designed for heavy weight (front and rear)
rigid steel fork
sturdy and durable wheels
powertrain for off-roading
good dirt protection
powerful lighting
Since this type of bike is designed to cover long distances with luggage, in it reliability is more important than weight.

Not many manufacturers make touring bikes, so prices are high, starting at $1,000 and up.

Folding bike

The bicycles of our time are usually not very problematic in terms of transportation – in order to put your eco-vehicle in the car, you only need to remove one or both of its wheels. This simple machination is done without the use of special tools and takes no more than three or four minutes. But still in some situations, this bike is very uncomfortable – for example, if the car for his transportation you do not have. That’s where a folding bike comes in handy!

Folding bicycles for adults and not only fit in the trunk without having to remove the wheels and easily stored in small rooms. Thus, they are not only more convenient to transport, but also easier to store in a small apartment.

Carrying such a bike in the subway also will not give you any serious inconvenience. Although folding bicycles and inferior to the “big” bikes on the stroke characteristics, they can also make both small and long bike rides. The main thing is to make your bike ride on paved roads.

Perhaps the main advantage of such bicycles. In addition to the fact that such bikes are smaller by themselves, so they can also be folded, at least in half. This allows you to store the bike in the closet, under the table, not to mention the balcony. It also becomes available to transport it in a car (shuttle, streetcar, subway). It does not need any fasteners and covers.

№2. Versatility .

This is probably the easiest type of bike to master. There is no great variety of frame sizes and complex geometries, no high top tube, a million speeds and complicated settings. On the same bike can ride and man, woman and child.

Disadvantages of folding bikes
№1. Limited

This is the downside to the versatility of folding bikes. Other than city riding, it’s hard to use them anywhere else. It will not go into the woods or fishing, it strongly do not drive. There are people who can drive them for long tours, but mountain bikes are still the most universal class. To be honest, even in the city the “folding bicycle” is not that good: even the same curbs are not easy to be overcome on it.

№2. Low speed

Although there are folding bikes with 24-inch wheels, but the most common models are bikes at 20 inches or less. This imposes its own terrible limitations on developing top speed. If you like to chase, or use the bike to develop muscle mass (be it quads, calves or myocardium), this type is definitely not for you.

What you need a folding bike for
№1. Home Storage.

A folding bike is just the thing for those who don’t have the ability to store a full-fledged bike at home. Live in a big city and a small apartment? A bike like this is just what you need.

№2. Getting to work.

When folded, such a bike will pass in the subway, and it is easy to hide it in the office. Some models even fit under the desk.

№3. Touring

Suburban tourism for a folding bike is not the best option. But if you’re in a foreign city, come for work, and want to ride/explore, rent a Folding Bicycle. However, if you have good physical fitness, you can travel on such a bike as well.

How to choose a folding bike
The trick of such units is the mechanism for folding the frame. Most models have a small frame with one hinge in the middle. In addition to the folding frame, some models have a telescopic handlebar and saddle extension mechanism, which makes the bike even more compact. When buying, pay attention to the latches, which should hold the mechanisms securely in place.

№1. Weight

Folding bikes are most often made of steel, less often of aluminum, and almost never of carbon. That’s why they always weigh a lot. Add more pedals, chain, wheels, rack and accessories. If the “machine” weighs a little – it means there is something wrong with it.

№2. Chain

Pay attention to the chain, how it “sits” in the folded form. Important: it must not stain your pants while you are carrying the bike around the office.

№3. Transportation

When folded, your bike should be able to be easily transported. It should be easy for you to pick it up and carry it. Otherwise, why would you want such a foldable bike?

№4. “Adjustments.”

See if the bike adjusts easily to your height. Whether the handlebars and saddle are easy to extend, and whether there’s room for it.

How quickly does such a bike fold?
Also an important parameter when choosing a bike. It is believed that models that fold longer than 20 seconds are not worth buying, as they cost more, and the life of the cyclist barely simplify. It is better that the bike can be brought into a compact state in 10-15 seconds. This is considered ideal.

The post Touring and Folding bicycle appeared first on Bvbf.

The creation of female models was influenced by the difference in the anatomical structure between them and the representatives of the stronger half:

Height. Statistics show that the height of the fairer sex is on average 10 cm less than that of men. Given this, the position of the steering wheel and landing, to the same extent comfortable for them and men, can not be.

Body length. A woman’s torso is 2 centimeters shorter than that of the stronger half of the same height.

Length of arms. The same can be said about it as about the body – a woman’s arms are shorter, so the handlebars are closer to the body on a woman’s bicycle.

Width of shoulders. Here again, women are inferior to men, so they design the handlebars with this female feature in mind.

Palm size. Women’s palms are smaller than men’s, so the discomfort will cause wide bicycle handles. They cause blisters.

Weight. Since men are in the lead in this parameter as well, a woman’s bicycle should be lighter. The difference in weight can be explained by the higher content of fat tissue in women, which is lighter than muscle tissue, which is more in the opposite sex. A lighter vehicle will help girls ride with less effort.

Body build. Due to the peculiarities of the female body, which are expressed in wide, hips and narrow shoulders, girls do not feel comfortable to ride on the classic men’s bikes. The way out of this situation was found by advanced manufacturers, who own the invention of women’s bikes.

How to choose the right and best women’s bike
We talked about the features of women’s models, as well as the problems faced by the fairer sex during the creation of a truly female bike. We will tell you exactly what to pay attention to when choosing a women’s frame geometry.

To begin with, decide for what purpose you want to buy a bicycle. Consider the most possible options.

Bicycles for the city
In order to ride on urban, well-made roads, it is quite suitable standard bicycle with a slightly lowered frame and a wide seat. To fully decide, it is necessary to consider your anatomical features. So if your shoulders are very narrow, then make sure to pick a model with the same or adjustable handlebar. Otherwise, after a couple of hours your hands will be heavily leaking, and this can cause an accident.

Calculate the approximate distance from the seat to the pedals, at which while riding your feet will not touch anything extraneous. Keep in mind that the right way to do this is not to bend your knees completely at every turn.

Depending on the terrain of your city, be sure to pick the right tires that won’t slip too much, but also won’t “melt” in the heat. If you are also going to often ride on sand or gravel, take this into account and do not choose models with too carved surfaces: sand and various pebbles will be hammered into them.

Regular models for the city are often equipped with interesting accessories for the bike, such as a colorful klaxon, which is especially important if you’re going to drive on the track or road, not on the sidewalk.

Baskets for bags and various small items are also extremely handy. Some versions even have a place where you can easily put a child.

If you find it difficult to get your two-wheeled friend down and up every time, consider women’s folding bikes, which can be a couple of times lighter and more compact.

Bicycles for Sports
For sports, whether it’s a professional or amateur sport, you’ll need a proper bike. In these models, the seat is quite high, but given the average length of your legs, the pedals are also higher than in men’s models. The handlebars are narrower and close to the frame.

The frame itself is relatively heavier than city bikes, but lighter than men’s models.

Be sure to consider the presence of a special compartment for storing a water bottle. Some professional modern bikes for women have heart rate, distance and time meters, as well as a special lock for the music player.

Off-road bikes
If you’re into riding on mountain trails, be sure to pick up special models. Even if you think a super-expensive sports bike is much better than a mountain bike, it’s not.

These models take into account all variants of the roads, their geometry is much different from all other options. The handlebar in them is located higher, its surface is more rough, which allows for better grip.

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