Just like you wouldn’t buy a car without taking it for a drive, you shouldn’t buy a bike without riding it first. Buying a bike can be exciting but also a bit overwhelming because there are so many types, brands, and models to choose from. Whether you’re a pro cyclist or buying your first bike, test riding is a crucial step in choosing the right one. In this guide, we’ll show you how to properly test ride a bike so you can make a smart and satisfying decision.

Figure Out What You Want

Before embarking on your visit to a local bike shop or delving into online options, it is essential to refine your understanding of the type of bicycle that best suits your needs. The market offers a diverse array of bicycles, each meticulously crafted for specific purposes and riding experiences:

Road bikes: These are light bikes made for speed on smooth roads. They’re great for long rides and racing.

Mountain bikes: These are strong bikes built for rough trails and tough ground. They have good suspension for a smoother ride.

Hybrid bikes: These bikes mix features from road and mountain bikes, making them good for riding on both roads and trails.

Gravel bikes: These are great for those who want to ride on both roads and gravel paths.

Electric bikes: These bikes have a motor that helps you pedal, making them perfect for hills or long rides.

Whether you're considering a new or secondhand bike, it’s important to recognize that cheaper isn’t always better—but neither is the most expensive bike on the market. With budget bikes, if it looks like an amazing deal, it likely comes with compromises. On the flip side, even if you're ready to invest in a high-end model, the priciest options might not suit your needs just yet. Ultra-high-end bikes are often crafted with professional racing in mind, and their extreme geometry may not be the best fit for your riding style. Trust your instincts and choose wisely!

Ask for a Test Ride

To test ride a bike, you need to ask. At the very least, take a few laps around the parking lot to check that the bike works well and fits you comfortably. Many bike shops allow test rides for serious buyers, but make sure to ask first, especially if the shop has a small selection of bikes.

During your test ride, it is imperative to observe how the bike performs under diverse conditions. Engage with a variety of surfaces, including smooth pavement, gravel, and uneven terrains, tailored to your intended usage. If feasible, embark on a longer journey to authentically replicate real-world scenarios.

Focus on the following aspects:

Handling: How easily does the bike steer? Is it responsive or sluggish?

Braking: Are the brakes easy to use and responsive? Do they work well in different conditions?

Suspension: For mountain bikes or hybrids, is the suspension providing enough comfort without compromising control?

Gear shifting: Is the gear shifting smooth and effortless? Are the gears properly adjusted?

If possible, try to take out at least three bikes so you can make a real comparison—even if you’re fairly sure about the bike you want. Take your time. Too often, people get stressed about test rides and just spin around the parking lot for 30 seconds and declare it good enough. But try to ride for at least a few minutes to really get a sense of how the bike feels.

Stand Over the Bike to See the Fit

One of the key things to do when test riding a bike is to make sure it fits you well. A bike that doesn’t fit properly can cause discomfort, make pedaling harder, or even lead to injuries. To check the fit, stand over the bike. There should be enough space between the top tube (the horizontal bar) and your body when your feet are flat on the ground.

If the bike doesn’t feel right when you stand over it, it may be too big or too small for you, so it’s important to try out different sizes and models until you find the best fit.

Get to Know Your Local Bike Shop

Visit your local bike shop instead of a big store. Your bike shop is more than just a place to buy a bike; it’s also where you can get repairs, find extra gear, learn about great riding spots, and meet other cyclists. Plus, unlike big stores, bike shops usually let you take bikes for a test ride when you’re shopping.

Having a good relationship with a local bike shop is so helpful, at bike shops, you’re able to get educated about your bike, you can find out about great spots to ride in your area, you can get introduced to clubs and groups, and you can get advice about your riding.

Buying Online? Test a Friend’s Bike

While the convenience of purchasing a bike online is undeniable, it is essential to acknowledge the inherent risks, particularly concerning fit and comfort. If you are contemplating an online bike purchase, it would be prudent to first experience a similar model in person. Consider reaching out to a friend or family member to arrange a test ride of their bike, thereby gaining valuable insights into its feel and performance.

If you can't get a friend's bike, think about going to a local shop that sells the same brand or model. Many shops let you take test rides on bikes they have, so you can try a similar one before buying online. Also, remember to look at the online store's return policy before you buy, just in case the bike isn't what you expected.

Wear Riding Gear

When test riding a bike, it’s essential to wear appropriate riding gear. Wearing your usual riding clothes, such as padded shorts, a helmet, and proper footwear, will give you a more accurate sense of how the bike will feel during your regular rides. This is especially important if you’re planning to use the bike for long-distance rides or more intense cycling.

If you're a seasoned cyclist looking for a new bike, you might want to bring your favorite saddle. This way, when you take the bike for a test ride, you can figure out if any fit problems are due to the bike itself or if they come from the saddle that comes with it.

Don’t Assume You Can Make It Fit

Many people believe that a bike can be easily adjusted to fit them, but it’s important to know there are limits to these adjustments. You can change things like the saddle, handlebars, and seat height, but the frame size and shape are fixed. If the bike is too big or too small for you, no adjustments will make it comfortable to ride.

Before buying a bike, it’s important to honestly evaluate how it fits you. If the bike doesn’t feel comfortable during the test ride, don’t assume that adjustments will make it better for you.

And once you’ve found your perfect bike, don’t forget to enhance your riding experience with a reliable bike computer. A Coospo bike computer can help you track your performance, navigate new routes, and make every ride more enjoyable. Happy riding!