Best Bicycles for '09
We've picked out the six hottest bikes for spring
by Scott Boulbol
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Americans are flocking to bike shops. Seven in 10 retailers report an increase in bike sales over the last year, according to a study by Bikes Belong, a national bicyclists advocacy group. And while tightening our butts and clearing our air are powerful factors in cycling's recent resurgence, the hell known as our economy sealed the deal. The same study said nine in 10 customers who bought a bike for transportation — commuting or running errands — reported doing so because it would save them money. No matter your motivation, the slick new rides that follow make it easier than ever to hit any trail, whether it's through the backwoods or on your way to work.
ROAD
Before buying, think about how you're going to ride it — cruising bike paths on weekends, racing 100 miles, or something in between. Casual riders should look for more flexible bikes, with a more upright rider position and a wider range of gears. Modern road bikes are made primarily from either aluminum or carbon, with aluminum being generally a bit heavier, less shock-absorbing, and cheaper.
Giant Defy 3 ($810, giantbicycles.com)
It doesn't just look fast for the money — it is. The stiff, responsive aluminum frame, racy, sloping geometry, and upgrades like the carbon fork and seatposts help it outperform its price. And you'll laugh at any doubters while spinning effortlessly past them and up hills (and still have money left to buy the first round!).
Schwinn Paramount Series 8 ($2,700, schwinnbikes.com)
At half the price of most thoroughbred racing machines, this bike is a steal — especially considering its sleek carbon frame and fork, high-end wheels, and 10-speed Sram components. Lightweight and comfortable, it's the perfect option for an all-day ride, with enough responsiveness to excel equally on sprints and hills.
MOUNTAIN
These gems are made with beefier specs and front- or full-suspension systems to handle the rigors of off-road riding. Entry-level mountain bikes are fine for most dirt roads and paths; you need a high-end bike if you plan on launching off huge rocks. Most riders will be fine with full-suspension cross-country or all-mountain bikes, which can handle all but the gnarliest of trails.
Haro Shift R1 ($895, harobikes.com)
A full-suspension bike for under a grand? Haro does it in style with this 4.5-inch travel, all-mountain machine with disc brakes and Shimano components. There's even a fork lockout for smooth surfaces (usually reserved for higher-end bikes). It's everything you need and much more to get started on a mountain bike.
GT Marathon Carbon Expert ($3,200, gtbicycles.com)
GT leaps back into the upper echelons of the industry with one of the best values out there. This superlight, race level, uber-eye-catching carbon frame offers four inches of front and rear travel. And the perfectly sufficient, mid-level Shimano SLX components help keep the price from skyrocketing too high.
COMMUTER
Commuter or "urban" bikes come in all shapes and styles — from laid-back cruiser models to sensibly functional hybrids. For the occasional ride down to the coffee shop on Sunday, consider a cruiser style. If you're commuting 20 miles each way to work, a decked-out hybrid might be best. Don't forget to consider things like geography and weather where you ride.
Nirve Starliner ($320, nirve.com)
This is a perfect bike for commuting or cruising. Its seven speeds allow for easy pedaling on any terrain, and fenders and a chain guard keep your ride clean. The lightweight aluminum frame and road style wheels are quick and comfortable, no matter where the day takes you.
Electra Amsterdam Royal 8 ($970, electrabike.com)
Cruise to work in style on this high-tech version of a classic. With its brakes and eight gears hidden inside the hubs, this bike is as low-maintenance as it is clean and classy. Add-ons such as built-in fenders, and lights, along with the leatherette saddle and grips, add safety to your swagger.
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