Bicycle. Kinds of bicycles

Bicycle riding provides recreation and exercise for the entire family. Mountain bikes, shown here, are sturdy vehicles suitable for riding on rough terrain.

Bicycle is a vehicle with two wheels set one behind the other on a frame. A rider powers a bicycle by pushing two pedals around in a circle. People all over the world use bicycles for transportation, recreation, and exercise. Several of the world's countries produce millions of bicycles per year.

In some nonindustrial countries, the bicycle is a more important means of transportation than the automobile because it costs far less. Some people use the bicycle to make a living. In many Asian countries, for example, pedicabs provide public transportation. These vehicles consist of a bicycle with an attached cart that can carry two passengers. Bicycles also are used to deliver small packages and mail.

Kinds of bicycles. Bicycles come in many sizes and styles. There are separate sizes for children's and adult bicycles. The size of a children's bicycle is the diameter of its wheels. The main sizes are 12, 16, 20, and 24 inches. The size of an adult bicycle is determined by the size of its frame. It is typically measured as the length of the seat tube. This tube, which is part of the frame, is a cylinder that extends from just below the seat to the axle of the pedals. Standard sizes of adult bikes vary depending on the type.

Some types of adult bikes are typically measured in inches, and others in centimeters. There are five main styles of bicycles: (1) mountain, (2) road, (3) hybrid, (4) juvenile, and (5) specialty.

Some kinds of bicycles

Mountain bikes have sturdy frames, flat handlebars, and wide, knobby tires. These features make them suitable for rides over rough terrain. Some even have front and rear suspensions (spring systems), like those of motorcycles, to cushion against bumps. Wheel size is usually 26 inches. Mountain bikes have gear systems that provide up to 27 speeds.

Road bikes are made for riding on pavement. They have narrow tires set on wheels of 26 or 27 inches, or of a similar size known as 700C They have curved handlebars, and their gear systems provide up to 30 speeds. There are four major types of road bikes. Road racers weigh about 20 pounds (9 kilograms). Their lightness and short wheelbase (length from front to rear axle) enable the cyclist to make quick movements with the bike.

Touring bikes weigh from 23 to 26 pounds (10.5 to 12 kilograms). They have fenders and attachments for racks. They also have a long wheelbase that adds stability for carrying belongings in bags called panniers (PAN ee uhrz). Road sport bikes Ave made for fast recreational riding and light touring. They are not as quick as racers. They weigh 22 to 25 pounds (10 to 11 kilograms). Comfort bikes, also called cruiser bikes, are made for casual riding. They weigh 26 pounds (12 kilograms) or more. They may have one speed or several.

Hybrids are a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike. They are designed for road and off-road cycling. Many people ride hybrids to work or school. Hybrid tires are wider than road bike tires but narrower than mountain bike tires. Hybrids may have flat or curved handlebars. Their gear systems provide up to 27 speeds.

Juvenile bikes are designed for children. Some are smaller versions of adult mountain, road, and hybrid models. Two popular types are BMX and freestyle. BMX bikes are designed for racing on dirt tracks, a sport called bicycle motocross. Freestyle bikes have small frames for trick riding.

Specialty bicycles have uncommon features. The tandem carries two riders, one behind the other. Each rider uses a separate set of pedals, but there is only one chain. The riders pedal together for extra power and speed. On a recumbent, the rider leans backward and pedals with the legs stretched forward. Some recumbents have an outer shell that reduces air resistance, enabling the bicycle to reach speeds of more than 60 miles (100 kilometers) per hour.