How to Determine Which Type of Bike to Buy?

When you go to buy a bike, you will find that you have a choice between mountain bikes, road bikes or hybrids. But which bike makes the most sense for you?

Step 1
Decide what you want to do with the bike. Where do you want to ride? How often? Is comfort a top priority, or is performance more important?
Step 2
Buy a mountain bike if you want to ride off road. Mountain bikes also make great city bikes. If you don't plan to ride off road, simply switch to smoother tires.
Step 3
Buy a road bike if you want to go fast, and if you only ride on the pavement. Road bikes are light and efficient, but people who don't ride very often generally find them uncomfortable.
Step 4
Buy a hybrid if you want the upright, comfortable riding position of a mountain bike, and the efficiency of a road bike. Hybrids are great for city riding, commuting, and light trail riding.
Step 5
Consider a one-speed cruiser for a quality low-cost, low-maintenance bike. Cruisers are great for running errands and getting around a college campus. But watch out for long hills!