A road bike is used for on-road riding, cardio fitness, competition and racing, and group bike rides. Road bikes typically have curved handlebars, a narrow seat, skinny tires and are lighter and more aerodynamic than other bikes. Find local places to ride a road bike here.

A mountain bike is used for off-road riding, fitness biking and distance cruising. They are built to give you grip and stability to tackle any type of terrain. Mountain bikes typically have flat handlebars, thick, knobby tires, and sturdy construction. Find local places to ride a mountain bike here.

A commuter bike is used for riding to work or school, running errands, and distance cruising. Commuter bikes are used to bike for transportation. They have a more relaxed, upright position and features like storage attachments, fenders and flat handlebars. Find local places to ride a commuter bike here.

A cruiser bike is used for recreational riding, light commuting and family bike rides. Cruiser bikes are built for comfort. They are heavier in weight and have thicker tires to easily coast over paved paths. High handlebars and a larger seat let you sit upright. Find local places to ride a cruiser bike here.

Every time you ride your bike wear a bike helmet with the straps fastened under your chin. To test if your helmet is the right size, put it on your head and fasten the straps under your chin, then shake your head yes and shake your head no. The helmet should stay still and not tip forward or backward or slide from side to side across your forehead.

Bike lights attach to the front and back of your bike. You can also add a light to your helmet. Lights help you see and help cars see you. Use your bike lights during the day and when its dark.

Bike shorts have a padded seat to keep you comfortable on longer rides. Bike shorts come in many colors and lengths. They can be worn alone or under looser fitting clothing.

Bike gloves give you extra padding to help cushion your hands when you're leaning on the handlebars. They also keep your hands from sliding off the handlebars when you sweat.

Sneakers or bike shoes are the best shoes for biking. Avoid biking in sandals. The main benefit of bike shoes is that you are able to "clip in" with cleats to special pedals that allow you to push down and pull up on the pedal. This helps you ride longer and faster.

A bike lock lets you securely park your bicycle, like locking the doors on a parked car. You will need at least one U-lock. It is recommended to have a U-lock and cable or chain, or 2 U-locks. To lock your bike to a bike rack follow the instructions below:

IF YOU HAVE ONE U-LOCK
Put the back wheel of the bike close to the rack. Loop the U-lock through the back wheel of the bicycle and the frame of the bicycle. Then lock the U-lock around the bike rack.

IF YOU HAVE A U-LOCK AND A CABLE OR CHAIN
Take the cable or chain lock and thread it through the front wheel and through the locked U-lock. Then lock the cable or chain around the bike rack.

IF YOU HAVE TWO U-LOCKS
Loop the U-lock through the front wheel of the bicycle and the frame of the bicycle. Then lock the U-lock around the bike rack.

A floor pump is used to put air in your bike tires. Before each ride use a floor pump to pump up your tires. Watch the dial as you pump:

Road bike tires stop between 80 to 130 psi

Mountain bike tires stop between 30 to 50 psi

Hybrid tires stop between 50 to 70 psi