I posted a similar question in the equipment forum, but I thought I would ask it here too... I would like to get into cycling but don't know what path to take. I presently live in Kansas city KS, and will soon be moving to Minneapolis MN. Here in Kansas city, there are plenty of paved paths, and I am guessing that is the case in Minneapolis too. For someone starting out cycling(I haven't ridden a bike in about 10 years) but is an athletic female looking for a good cardio workout, what do you suggest is the best type of bike for me to get? Mountain, tour, road, etc.
Ok - I see why you reposted after posting elsewhere and let me say welcome aboard. Interesting question especially with the climate & area you will mostly be in. First off I would ask if you wish to ride off road at all or do you prefer the idea of flying down the roads. Are you planning on riding to classes on your bike at all, especially during the winter? Third, which type of bike feels better - flat handlebars where you are sitting more upright or the road bike style. Answering those would help out a lot.
Some generalizations and why I asked what I did. If you prefer to ride off road - a road bike won't suit you to much and vice versa. Riding to classes especially during the winter lends itself more to a mountain bike for the occasional going over curbs & the snow / ice on the roads & sidewalks (additionally you don't want to spend a lot on your bike and having it get ripped off while you are in class). The third is pretty self explanatory. The most important things when you figure out what type of riding you want to do & where is find a LBS (Local Bike Shop) that you are comfortable with and that the bike fits / you feel good on it. Please do not try the I can get used to it routine - get one that you feel comfortable on - later as you stretch out more, get in better cycling shape your bike choices will change. (Handlebars farther forward if you are on a road bike etc...)
For the LBS, shop around plenty & get lots of opinions from the people there on options, what works & what doesn't. Make sure you also get out of college row & try some other shops further from the school if the ones close to the school are in the this is hot right now & you will good mentality.
FYI - don't forget to check out cyclo-cross bikes that are basically the best of both worlds. I hope this helps & if you need anything else let us know. Thanks
Just get a road bike and go from there. With a mountain bike you won't get the full work out you want... maybe in Kansas you can. But most of the mountain bikeing you'll do is tech stuff, avoiding large rocks and trees and such. On the road you can cank it out and go and go and go and go.
In minneapolis you could try track riding...there's a velodrome close by. Though, I think it's a sports complex deal, with soccer fields and other stuff. I have an uncle and aunt in minneapolis. They are very athletic. They mostly run and do an occasional marathon. they're nearing 50, are very successful professionally, and still find time to kayak! they amaze me...
track is great cardio. Also, it's a bit of a challenge. But, do what you feel most comfortable doing. Trail riding could be your niche... or road, track, whatever!
I'd also say go with road cycling, but first with the caveat that you make the choice you want for riding either on road or off, as suggested above. Whichever riding environment and style appeals to you the most. I'd also agree that you'll get more cardio from a road bike. Its almost limitless in that department and a pure joy. Try to see the new Lance/Nike commercial. 😉
Whichever way you go, it'll be a fine workout and a ton of fun. Welcome and enjoy riding!
