Various Types of Bicycles

Description: Racing bicycles are designed for speed and feature very narrow tires and a selection of gears in medium to high ratios. They are light weight and feature an aerodynamic riding position in which the rider leans low, using handlebars that drop down lower than the saddle.

Description: Cruiser bicycles feature heavy frames, wide, comfortable seats, and large tires designed for use on hard surfaces. They have relatively few gears (many have only one) and normally have coaster brakes (applying reverse pressure to the pedals causes the pedals to stop moving and activates the brakes).

Description: BMX bicycles are designed to allow the rider to do stunts and tricks. They have only one gear.

Description: Mountain bikes are designed for use on non-paved trails where the rider may encounter obstacles such as sticks, stones, tree roots, and other hazards. They feature heavy duty frames and wheels and wide tires with tread designed to dig into the trail surface for traction. The handle bars are a straight type rather than a drop-down type, which gives the rider an upright riding position. Their gearing systems feature a wide range of gear ratios so the rider can choose from very low or very high ratios.

Description: Recumbent bicycles are those in which the rider rides in a reclined position rather than an upright position. They feature a large seat that fully supports the rider's back. The pedals are attached to a boom structure that extends from the front of the bicycle and the handlebars may be below the seat or above the seat.