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Choosing an LED Headlight for Bikes: What You Need to Know
As a cyclist, you must always be very cautious and alert, whether you pedal inside or outside. You should purchase the correct equipment for your bike and make sure you have everything that you need. In fact, you really need LED bicycle headlights and taillights in this day and age. Bicycle lighting, including headlights and taillights, are very important when you explore the city or anywhere you go including cycling indoors, they will be very useful to you and will promote your safety. Unexpected events can make your journey cycling unbearable and you will have to be aware, especially if the weather changes unexpectedly, you need to be prepared and well-equipped. All cyclists should constantly be on the lookout. We can never tell when the weather might change, it is unpredictable. It is imperative you make the right choices when you pick out your LED light kit with powerful lumens, a rechargeable li-ion battery or similar battery pack, and, above all, ensure you have super bright lighting where you are easily seen. As any experienced cyclist knows, you want to ensure that you are safe on the road and nothing should compromise your amazing journey. Follow these guidelines and you won't have to worry one bit anymore about your bicycle lighting.
1. Purpose of Buying Led Bike Lights
In the first place, you need to figure out the use of your new LED bike light, whether you will use your bike outside or inside. In appearance, it doesn’t seem to matter but it makes a huge difference in purchasing LED bike lights as you are dealing with different types of bikes so the same thing goes for the lighting. As a matter of fact, the size and shape of the beam lay on the style of the bike and so you are better off choosing a brighter light. Outdoor LED lights have a more focused beam whereas indoor lights have a wider spread. When you ride around town, look closely at how well-lit the streets are and don’t forget that on-road bike lights are built to irradiate anywhere you go and enable you to see clearly.
2. Duration of LED Bike Lights
In fact, you need to determine how many times you will use your led, it is important as it will enable you to get something more durable and you won’t have to spend more money. You need to make up your mind about how often and for how long the bike lights will be used. The length of time the light is needed allows you to choose between battery-operated and rechargeable models. Indeed, LED bike lights are known for their capacity to use less energy and, as a result, they last longer. If you would like to extend a battery life even longer, you may want to buy an LED with a low-power option. Moreover, if you are going to use the bike light very often, you should buy a bike light that features a life battery.
3. Natural Events Can Cause Some Issues
Were you aware that bicycle lovers don’t care about riding when it rains, shines, or its night? They like cycling whenever the feel like it and nothing will stop them from exploring new horizons. They are very passionate about this activity, so they won’t let anything come between them and their love for pedalling. In that case, these cycling fanatics should buy an LED bike light that can prevent them from having an accident just in case a natural disaster occurs or weather conditions change suddenly. You should check out weather-resistant lights. They are generally constructed with better seals, making them well worth the investment. Furthermore, if you ride in below freezing conditions, the extreme temperatures can have an impact on battery life, discharging it much more quickly. And for those who don’t cycle often, they do not have to spend a huge amount of money on LED bike lights. This rule only applies to risk-takers who are willing to venture out anytime no matter what, so they are the ones that might want to invest in these types of bike lights. Thus, they won’t let weather conditions or anything jeopardize their adventure at all costs.
4. Various Led Lights Bike
As soon as you have established the variables of use for your bike light, the next stage is to learn about the various options available. Bike lights shine a concentrated, solid beam up ahead. Flashing lights are preferred for their power to enhance visibility. Some bike lights have a low-power setting that helps save energy. Please check out these the three main styles of LED bike lights and choose whatever you see fit for your outdoor or indoor activities.
- Flashing LED bike lights are used to make drivers aware of your presence, but they are hardly an appropriate choice to brighten up a dark path. Mainly flashing lights function with the regulated range of 1 to 4 flashes per second or 60 to 240 per minute. These types of lights are meant for the rear light even though many standard lights include a flash setting.
- LED bike lights feature a single-focused beam constructed to better the biker's visibility to surrounding traffic and lighten up the path ahead of you. Many of these lights are made of standard and high beam settings and if you are in a situation, in which you are in the dark, you should go for a brighter light. These lights are mainly placed in every place a light can be installed.
- Low power LED bike lights ensure an extended life battery. You need to know that this type of light or setting is not enough for dark roads and indoor riding. Low power LED bike lights are only useful for dawn, daytime, and dusk use, but they are not the best options whenever it rains.
Choosing LED bike lights are not an easy task but they will be very useful whenever you ride your bike outside or inside. In addition, it will reinforce your safety and will enable you to pedal in a safe environment without any constraints. To conclude, if you follow the advice above, you won’t be in danger and you will have all the appropriate equipment for your cycling session.
Cheap Mountain Bikes: 10 of the Best MTBs for Your Money in 2017
Nowadays, there are so many different mountain bikes on the market. There are hardtail mountain bikes, dual suspension mountain bikes, full-suspension mountain bikes, ones with slim tires and other with super fat tires and so on. In fact, there are so many mountain bikes now that even some of the more experienced riders can become confused with what is available. What’s more, if you were to go to your local bike shop looking for the best mountain bikes available, the salesman will happily show you bikes that are anywhere from $2,000 to over $4,000. What he won't tell you, however, is that you can buy an excellent beginner mountain bike or a budget mountain bike for less than $1,000 that will still tackle some seriously rough terrain. Here is a list of the 10 best budget mountain bikes you can get that are $1,000 or under for 2017 and get on the first step to becoming a seasoned mountain biker:
10. Diamondback Line Mountain Bike
This bike has a lightweight aluminum frame with a sleek and fashionable design to it. The really great thing about this bike is that the parts are of good, solid quality. For example, it has a SRAM drivetrain which makes for greater reliability.
On the Plus Side
One of the things that is best about the Diamondback Line Mountain Bike is the fact that it has 120 mm front suspension. Once the price of a bike hits $1,000 they usually have 12 cm front suspension and 9 gears. That boils down to having one ring at the front and 9 on the rear.
On the Down Side
The handlebar on this bike is the widest of most bikes at 785 mm.
9. Alton Mammoth 2.0
Now, this is the best fat bike for under $1000. Nowadays, the number of fat bikes purchased is steadily increasing because of their adaptability. They offer serious endurance and enable you to ride in all weather conditions, even snow and mud.
The frame of the Alton Mammoth 2.0 is made for 26" wheels. The weight of the bike is around 43 lb, which is heavy for a bike, but all other fat bikes weigh about the same amount and the many advantages to owning one are a lot greater than this one minor fault.
On the Plus Side
The Alton Mammoth 2.0 has 27 gears that rate entry to mid-level and are dependable.
Disc brakes are also a welcome part of this package and make stopping and controlling the bike a whole lot easier.
On the Down Side
Too many gears. Around half the time fatbikes have only rear derailleurs, which is just fine.
8. Raleigh Tekoa Comp
Like all of the bikes in this range, the frame is 6061 aluminum. The front fork is an SR Suntour Raidon with 100 mm of travel and lockout/Rebound control. Its one flaw is that it doesn't allow a lot of adjustment. But it's still a great fork.
On the Plus Side
The components are basically SRAM. The rear derailleur and shifters are SRAM NX, mid-level components.
On the Down Side
It has 29" diameter rims made by Weinmann. This size is quite popular. But Weinmann is known for making low to mid-level products and the rims are heavy.
7. Rocky Mountain Soul 27.5
The Rocky Mountain Soul 27.5 has an aluminium frame with a riding position that permits more trail riding. Because the frame is coil-sprung instead of the usual air-sprung, the fork allows this bike to be used for more rugged riding and gives it more durability as well.
While there isn't anything special to point out with this bike, there aren't any negatives either.
6. Specialized RockHopper Comp 29er
It provides a low price tag to go with a lot of cross country power. The Rockhopper Comp has both Shimano and SRAM on the drivetrain, plus 29” wheels. Also, the geometry of the bike is geared mostly toward trail riding. The end product is a bike that can tolerate a good, hard XC race every now and then and can also cope with the needs of a beginner.
On the Plus Side
The Specialized RockHopper Comp 29er has both Shimano and SRAM on the drivetrain.
There’s no real downside to this bike which is well worth the money.
5. Trek X-Caliber 8
Trek has teamed up with the man affectionately known as the grandfather of mountain biking, Gary Fisher, to produce some of the fastest cross country mountain bikes you can find. The G2 fork offset located on Trek's 29er bikes is the main reason for this. It serves to make the X-Caliber 8 feel comfortable at fast speeds, yet allows it to still perform great at low rates.
There is no real downside to this bike and it's offered at a great price too!
4. Scott Scale 970
Now, the Scott Scale bike is created for speed and actually looks sharp and fast prior to ever hitting the trail. The fork is able to be adjusted to meet the special needs of every individual rider and also the internal cable routing is a nice plus to the sharp, fast look.
3. Motobecane Fantom 29 Elite
The reason the Motobecane Fantom 29 Elite brand is so impressive is that they have actually turned the creating of affordable spec bicycles into a style of art all their own. This particular bike has an aluminium frame and provides a host of amazing features.
The RockShox Recon Silver fork ranks high compared to most of the other available forks that cost about the same. It provides better legs, more freedom to adjust, and there is also a remote for the lockout that is placed on the bar.
In truth, this bike has so many positives about it that there really aren't any negatives to point out. So, if you're looking for a reasonably priced mountain bike, give this one a try and you might just find it's right for you.
2. GT Verb Comp
The best feature of the GT Verb Comp—and there are many good things to say about it—is that it has full suspension but costs just $1,000. With an aluminium frame and ProMax Solve Hydro brakes, you get your money's worth with this bike and then some.
There aren't any negatives to report about this bike either.
1. Marin Pine Mountain 1
One of the best features about the Marin Pine Mountain 1 bike is the plus-size 27.5" tires, sometimes called simply 27+. They are very wide and offer lots of traction and a nice, easy ride. This is one of only a few bikes that were built from chrome steel. It’s the perfect material for a mountain bike because steel takes up the bumps and isn't as stiff as a standard aluminium frame.
On the Plus Side
This bike is reasonably priced at just under $1,000 with durable frame material.
On the Downside
This bike has no suspension.
All in all, most of these road bikes may be a bit pricey, but they are all great buys for children who are just getting into riding. Give one of them a try today!
Best Comfort Bikes for the Everyday Cyclist: Top 5 Picks of 2017
Comfort bikes are similar to mountain bikes but designed for short distances. So if you want to take a quick break from the house and ride your bike for some time, then this is the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you plan an outing with some family and friends, you can ride together in a group and get together somewhere. It will also enable you to spend some quality time with the people you love the most. Unlike many specialized mountain bikes and road bikes, comfort bikes or ‘cruiser bikes’ are fun and comfortable to pedal with handlebars comfortably placed and you don’t have to worry about your bike getting dirty—it was designed for this purpose. So here are the top 5 picks comfort bikes of 2017.
5. Northwoods Pomona Women's Dual-Suspension Comfort Bike
The Northwoods Pomona Dual-Suspension Comfort Bike is the best bike for anyone who wants flexibility, comfort and a peaceful ride around the city. For instance, you can use this bike if you want to grab something really quickly at the grocery store, pick up food or coffee at your favourite coffee shop.
First of all, the backbone of the North-wood Pomona Women’s Dual-Suspension Comfort Bike is made of a hand-crafted, lightweight aluminium dual suspension frame which can embrace bumps on the most uneven territories. This associated with even more light weight components such as alloy rims, stem, and a quick release seat clamp and you get a bike that will make you feel as light as a feather.
This comfort bike is 26″ aluminium 36-spoke wheels linked to Custom-Design Cruiser Tires. It is also composed of aluminium frame, ergo fit steel handlebar with twist shifters, comfortable a Cruiser Seat and a Shimano rear derailleur.
4. Raleigh Bikes Venture Thru Comfort Bike
The Raleigh Bike Venture Thru Comfort Bike is rediscovering what the actual meaning of fun is all about. This new model enables you to travel short distances any way you like and you can relax while you ride. The Raleigh Bike gives you the opportunity to explore various new horizons.
It is built with comfort as the number one priority. The Raleigh Bike Venture Thru will keep you busy around your home, city and unexplored venues.
First and foremost, Raleigh's True Comfort lightweight aluminium frame is intended to better fit a woman's body by lowering the stand over height and decreasing the distance between the seat and the handlebars. You can seat comfortably while pedalling and you won’t cause any pain to your lower back or neck. The Shimano twist shifters provide 21 speeds to choose from and the large wheels and wide tires will boost your confidence and strength when you venture into unknown territory.
3. Schwinn Women's Suburban Bike, 26-Inch, Mint
Get acquainted with the Schwinn Women’s Suburban Bike and uncover the real meaning of bike riding experience. According to data taken from years of practical knowledge of the Schwinn bike, the bike has been remodeled with Schwinn Comfort, that is to say, a new take on riding comfortably by taking into account the three touch points the rider makes with the bike. In addition, be rest assured that in all Schwinn bikes, the Schwinn Suburban is guaranteed with a lifetime warranty for as long as you own the bike.
Every new Schwinn Women’s Suburban Bike is made of comfort frame and Schwinn suspension fork, a micro-shift 7-speed shifter with Shimano rear derailleur for fast alloy linear pull brakes, alloy wheels, and easy gear changes.
2. Schwinn Suburban Deluxe Men's Comfort Bike
You should a ride a bike that makes you feel at ease and doesn’t cause you any problems. Then, you should definitely check out Schwinn Suburban Deluxe Men’s Comfort Bike. This bike makes your pedaling experience even more enjoyable and agreeable. The Suburban Deluxe combines comfort frame and an adjustable handlebar stem and this combination provides you a good riding position. You won’t have to get rid of any of the functional features you want.
The 21-speed Shimano Revo twist shifters and a Shimano rear derailleur allow gear alterations seamless and the Schwinn front suspension fork enables the ride to be steady and smooth. In addition, the front and rear alloy hand brakes for secure stopping, light and strong alloy rims echoes with longevity, a padded Schwinn comfort seat and ergonomic grips, and the Suburban DLX is equipped with all the features you need. People will envy you when you will ride you Schwinn Suburban Deluxe.
1. Diamond Bicycles Wildwood Classic Comfort Bike
These bicycles have different sizes, so you don’t have to worry about your weight whether you will fit on the bike or not. You have options of choosing whatever makes you feel more comfortable and secure. When you will receive your bike, it will be virtually assembled, so you will just have to assemble the rest. However, if you don’t think you can do it, you can go to a bike shop and they will assemble it for you.
The Diamond Bicycle Wild-wood Classic Comfort Bike is solid, manageable, and comfy. It makes your riding experience easy-going, smooth, and calm. You will make memories with this amazing bike.
As a matter of fact, the heat-treated aluminium frame lasts for a reliable ride while the comfort geometry enables you to have a relaxed pedalling position. Even if you ride fast or slow, the 7-speed drive train allows you a range of gears so you can hit any places. The super soft foam seat and front suspension give you lasting comfort.
Thus, these comfort bikes are easy, fun, entertaining, and give you the chance to see breathtaking landscapes close up. They will enable you to take a break from your daily activity and escape for a moment. Indeed, they are designed not to be used for a very long time, so they are the perfect tools for a short trip to somewhere local. You don’t need to do much, you just have to let the bike guide you and give you the confidence to see more places. If you like exploring new horizons for a short period of time, comfort bikes will offer you the thrill that you need.
Bike Rims: How to Choose the Best
Those rims (or bicycle tires) on your bike wheel are much more important than you might think. They are needed to create a steady and smooth ride. They are required to keep the bicycle at an even level while handling the pressures and shocks you come across on a trail. Rims on both the front wheel and the rear wheel can also help with managing the drag that might be produced as you’re riding.
Whether you own a mountain bike, a street bike or a road bike, rims are indeed a true necessity and whether we are talking about a wide rim, slim design or the tire size, tires make the difference. But, over time, your will start to experience fatigue. You may notice a groove or hole on your bike rim that disappears as it wears out. Some dents and depressions around the rims also show the wear on these parts.
You will have to get those bike rims replaced regularly. There are many pointers worth using when choosing such rims. You must check carefully on what you can get out of these rims as they come in many forms for an assortment of demands.
Which Section Is Right?
There are three types of bike rim to choose from. These are divided into sections with each option being suitable for specific types of rides:
- A shallow section rim offers a slim design. This is typically made with a lighter carbon fiber material. Such lighter rims are better for mountain climbing bicycles.
- A mid-section rim is a little thicker on the outside. This is light enough to handle more climbing activities but still thick to handle flat roads. It does not feel as much of an impact from winds felt as it travels quickly.
- The deep-section rim features a body where the outside parts are about an inch thick or more. This is used to cut through windy conditions and keeps the drag on the bike from being too strong. These are better for flat surfaces and are especially perfect for race use.
Do You Need a Tube?
The tube on your rim is important as it supports a strong tire. However, some bike rims are made with tubeless designs.
A typical tube-based design fits around an inflatable tube that supports the tire. The rim will come with a slight groove on the outside parts to help support a tube and keep it in place.
A tubeless option uses added pinching features all around the outside. These help to create a better fit for a tubeless tire variant. This is a little heavier in weight but it also offers a crisp look while supporting tires that are not likely to struggle with air loss, what with there being no tubes involved.
What Is It Made Of?
Steel has been used as a key material for bike rims. Aluminum has become more popular in recent time, though. Aluminum rims are popular for handling more physical pressures. They are often made from recycled materials too, thus making them popular on the green scene. Aluminum rims also handle the intense heat of a ride better than others. This, in turn, creates a comfortable feeling for your ride.
Carbon fiber has especially become appealing in recent times. It is even stronger than aluminum and still lighter in weight. It can work in many shapes and sizes and will still remain strong no matter how it is used. It can run hot when going downhill, though.
Do They Have To Be Wide?
You can go for wider bike rims if you prefer. Wider rims aren’t going to bear with more stress from wind than other slimmer rims. If anything, wider rims offer a little more forgiveness over your ride. They let you ride a little smoother and without too much stress being added to the tires. Wider rims will also entail less rolling resistance. This allows you to have more control over the bike while going on various slopes.
Wider rims are better if you have rougher surfaces to go on. These are great if you plan on turning often or need to turn rather fast. These allow for a little more balance while not being too rough on the road. Of course, slimmer rims can be used on smoother spots but they won’t be as forgiving as wider ones.
Aluminum or Carbon Brakes?
Your rim will support either an aluminum or carbon braking system. The system is designed based on the materials used for the grip that secures the rim. An aluminum system offers a smoother stop and can work wonders in all weather and road conditions. A carbon system can stop a tire faster but works better in dry conditions. Check carefully on your riding demands to see which option is right for you.
Of course, such brakes can cause your rim to wear out over time. The added fatigue that is generated will be consistent among both aluminum and carbon brakes.
How Are the Spokes Connected?
The spokes that link to you rims are more than just nice-looking metal wires. They also support your rim and offer enough of a balance. The spokes must be placed as evenly as possible.
You can find plenty of round spokes but flat spokes are becoming more popular. These are slimmer in their design and create less of a drag on your rims. Still, they are more fragile than round ones.
You have to look at how intense your rides are versus how fast you go when riding. Flat spokes are best for your rims when you’re trying to go faster and aren’t likely to be on rough surfaces.
Be prepared to look carefully at the bike rims you want to get. Bike rims are varied and come in all kinds of styles. Check carefully on how you plan on using your bike based on planned surfaces and speeds among other points so you’ll have rims that fit in perfectly. Don’t forget to see how the spokes are linked. The excitement of riding a bike can be a thrill in its own right but you have to look carefully to see that your rims are designed to fit your particular needs when riding.