Good Bikes for Outside Riding That Help You Lose Weight

Riding a bicycle outside for transportation has been statistically linked to weight loss. The Center for Advancing Health reports that using bicycles for things like commuting to work leads to a decrease in weight gain in most adults. The research, published by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, reported that weight gain was consistent in people who commute by car, even if exercise was a regular part of their routine. Finding ways to incorporate bicycle riding into your life can be a very natural way to maintain a healthy weight, lose additional weight, and keep your muscles healthy and active. Choosing the right bike for this activity depends on what activities you find the most enjoyable.

  1. Cruising Bikes

    • Cruising bikes are the entry level bicycle for many riders. These bikes are simple and encourage an upright riding position for comfort on short rides. Most cruiser bikes are single speed, so they are a challenge to pedal up large hills since the gear ratio is constant. However, on flat rides, these bikes are luxurious and smooth. Choose a cruiser bike if you're just stepping into cycling and want an easy, comfortable ride that won't break your bank. Cruisers come in a variety of stylish choices and frame configurations for a unique look.

    Road Bikes

    • Road bikes are the quintessential bicycle for pavement excursions. Road bike geometry is more aggressive than a cruiser bike, with sharp lines and a slightly forward riding position for an ergonomic transfer of power and good aerodynamics. They can be made from steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, and other alloys like titanium, and they boast a wide range of configurations. Most offer multiple gears to make transitioning between hills more efficient. Road bikes are ideal for commuting, bicycle racing, charity rides, and can even be set up with racks or bags for grocery shopping and traveling.

    Mountain Bikes

    • Mountain bikes are suited for mountain trails and winding bike paths. They have more aggressive wheels and tires for grip and flotation, and they often feature tough frames with shock absorption for one or both wheels. Mountain biking is ideal for advanced riders who want to challenge themselves with a more technical and exciting ride. The many frame styles, dimensions, and frame materials mean a mountain bike can be tailored to a specific rider's activities and abilities.

    Hybrid Bikes

    • Hybrid bicycles, also known as fitness bikes, resemble road bikes in their dimensions and riding positions, but they have traits from mountain bikes to accomodate a wider range of riding conditions. These versatile bikes feature a higher wheel clearance for larger tires and tougher rims and will sometimes have a shock absorber in the front fork. Most hybrid bicycles have flat bars like a mountain bike, and they can be configured with racks for holding bike bags. Hybrid bicycles are suited for intermediate riders who want the added stability of an off-road bicycle on their particular route.

    Using a Bike for Weight Loss

    • While all of these bicycles will help you get the outdoor exercise that can lead to weight loss, finding the right bicycle to suit your needs is important to encouraging yourself to make cycling a part of your life. Choose a bike that is appropriate for the conditions you expect to encounter. A knowledgeable expert at your local bike shop can help size the bicycle frame to your body type and dimensions so that the bicycle you choose will fit properly and safely. The better you feel on your bike, the more inclined you will be to hit the road or trail and stick with your weight loss program.