Bike Buyers Guide - What bike is right for me?

Choosing the right bike starts with understanding the different types
available—whether you're tackling rugged mountain trails, cruising city
streets, or powering through long road rides, there's a perfect bike for every
rider and adventure.

Road Bikes

Road bikes are designed for speed, efficiency, and long-distance riding on
smooth pavement. Their lightweight frames, narrow high-pressure tires, and drop
handlebars create an aerodynamic position that maximizes speed and minimizes
resistance. This makes them ideal for endurance rides, racing, and fitness
training.

Pros:
✔ Fast and efficient on paved roads
✔ Lightweight for easier climbing and acceleration
✔ Ideal for long-distance rides and endurance training

Cons:
✘ Less comfortable on rough or uneven terrain
✘ Thin tires can be more prone to flats
✘ Aggressive riding position may not be ideal for all riders

Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes bridge the gap between road and mountain bikes, offering
versatility for riders who want to tackle both pavement and off-road terrain.
They feature wider, grippier tires than road bikes for better stability on
gravel, dirt, and mixed surfaces while maintaining a relatively lightweight
frame and drop handlebars for efficiency on long rides.

Pros:
✔Versatile for both road and off-road adventures
✔Wider tires provide better traction and comfort on rough terrain
✔More relaxed geometry than road bikes for added stability and comfort

Cons:
✘ Not as fast as a dedicated road bike on pavement
✘ Heavier than a road bike due to wider tires and reinforced frames
✘ Can be more expensive than entry-level road or mountain bikes

Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes are built for off-road adventures, designed to handle rough
trails, steep descents, and technical terrain with ease. They feature sturdy
frames, wide knobby tires for grip, and suspension systems that absorb shocks
from rocks, roots, and uneven ground. Mountain bikes come in different styles,
including hardtail (front suspension only) and full suspension (both front and
rear shock absorption), catering to different levels of trail difficulty and
rider preference.

Pros:
✔Excellent traction and control on rough terrain
✔Suspension absorbs impacts for a smoother ride
✔Strong and durable frames built to withstand tough conditions

Cons:
✘ Heavier and slower on pavement compared to road or gravel bikes
✘ Requires more maintenance, especially for
full-suspension models
✘ Can be expensive, especially high-end models with advanced components

Commuter bikes

Commuter bikes are designed for everyday urban travel, offering a
comfortable and practical way to navigate city streets. They typically feature
a relaxed geometry for an upright riding position, durable frames, and
components that prioritize reliability over speed. Many commuter bikes come
equipped with racks, fenders, and lights to enhance functionality, making them
ideal for daily rides to work, school, or errands.

Pros:
✔Comfortable and easy to ride for daily commutes
✔Durable and low-maintenance for long-term use
✔Can accommodate racks, fenders, and baskets for carrying gear

Cons:
✘ Heavier and slower than road or gravel bikes
✘ Not ideal for off-road or high-performance riding
✘ May require additional accessories for all-weather commuting

Electric Bikes

Electric bikes (e-bikes) provide pedal-assisted power, making cycling easier
and more efficient for commuting, recreation, or tackling tough terrain.
Equipped with a motor and battery, e-bikes help riders travel longer distances
with less effort, whether cruising through the city, climbing hills, or
carrying heavy loads. They come in various styles, including road, mountain,
commuter, and cargo e-bikes, each designed for specific riding needs.

Pros:
✔Boosts speed and reduces effort, especially on hills and long rides
✔Great for commuting without arriving sweaty or exhausted
✔Expands accessibility for riders of all fitness levels

Cons:
✘ More expensive than traditional bikes
✘ Heavier due to battery and motor components
✘ Requires charging and periodic battery replacements

Kids Bikes

Kids' bikes are designed to help young riders build confidence, balance, and
bike-handling skills at every stage of their development. From balance bikes
for toddlers to geared models for older kids, choosing the right size and style
is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. Many kids’ bikes come with
adjustable components, making it easier to extend their usability as children
grow.

At Comor Sports, we make upgrading easy with our Junior Trade-In Program—when your child outgrows their bike, trade it in for store credit toward their next one.
This ensures they always have the right size while making biking more
affordable for families. Learn more here.

Pros:
✔Designed to help kids develop riding skills safely
✔Lightweight and easy to maneuver for young riders
✔Some models include training wheels or adjustable components

Cons:
✘ Kids outgrow bikes quickly (but trade-in programs help!)
✘ Limited gearing on smaller models may restrict
terrain options
✘ Quality and durability vary across brands

Choosing the right bike size is essential for comfort, performance, and safety. A properly fitted bike will ensure you have better control, reduce the risk of injury, and make your rides more enjoyable. In this section, we'll guide you through selecting the ideal size based on your body measurements and
riding preferences.

What measurements do we need?

Inseam: Stand with your feet about 6-8 inches apart.
Use a tape measure to measure from the floor to your crotch, along the inside of your leg, while keeping the tape snug but not tight. This will help you find the right frame size, especially for road and mountain bikes.

Height: Measure your height while standing straight with your feet together.

For kids' bikes, knowing their height is generally sufficient to determine the
appropriate wheel size. Many bike retailers also offer detailed size charts to
match your measurements with the bike model that fits you best.

Choosing between two bike sizes?

Here’s when you might want to size up or down based on your riding style and bike type:

Road Bikes
Size Down If: You prefer an aggressive, aerodynamic position for racing or performance riding. A smaller frame offers better control and responsiveness.
Size Up If: You want a more upright, endurance-focused fit for comfort on long rides. A larger frame provides more stability and relaxed handling.

Mountain Bikes
Size Down If: You want a more playful, maneuverable ride for technical trails, jumps, and quick turns. A smaller frame improves agility.
Size Up If: You ride fast, open trails or prioritize stability on descents. A larger frame offers better traction and control at high speeds.

Hybrid & Commuter Bikes

Size Down If: You prefer a more upright position for better control in city traffic. A smaller frame makes starting, stopping, and maneuvering easier.
Size Up If: You want a smoother, more stable ride for long-distance commuting or fitness cycling. A larger frame provides a relaxed, efficient posture.

Frame

The bike frame is the backbone of your ride, influencing weight, durability,
comfort, and overall performance. Frames come in various materials and shapes,
each with its own advantages and trade-offs — choosing the right one depends on
your riding style and priorities. Let’s break it down!

Frame Materials:

Aluminum:
- Lightweightand affordable
- Stiff for efficient power transfer, but can feel harsh on rough terrain
- Common in road, mountain, and commuter bikes

Carbon Fiber:
- Ultra-light and incredibly strong
- Excellent vibration dampening for a smooth ride
- Pricier, and can be more delicate under heavy impacts

Steel:
- Extremely durable and easy to repair
- Provides a smooth, comfortable ride by absorbing vibrations
- Heavier than aluminum or carbon, but loved for its classic feel

Titanium:
- Combines the strength of steel with the lightness of aluminum
- Corrosion-resistant and long-lasting
- High-end option with a higher price point

Frame Shapes & Geometry:

Endurance Geometry (Road & Gravel
Bikes)
- More upright position for comfort on long rides
- Longer wheelbase for better stability
- Ideal for recreational and long-distance cyclists

Race Geometry (Road Bikes)
- Aggressive, aerodynamic position for speed
- Shorter wheelbase for quick, responsive handling
- Best for competitive riders and sprinters

Trail & All-Mountain (Mountain Bikes):
- Slacker head tube angles for better downhill control
- Longer reach for stability on rough trails
- Designed for technical terrain and aggressive riding

Commuter & Hybrid Geometry:
- Relaxed, upright posture for visibility and comfort
- Stable handling for stop-and-go traffic
- Perfect for city riding and casual weekend trips

Tires play a crucial role in how your bike handles, from
grip and speed to comfort and efficiency. The right tire choice depends on your
riding style, terrain, and weather conditions. Let’s break down the key
aspects:

Tire Size (Diameter)

Road Bikes: Typically 700c, designed for speed and efficiency on pavement.

Gravel & Touring: Bikes: Often 650b or 700c, offering a balance between rolling efficiency and off-road capability.

Mountain Bikes: Sizes include 26", 27.5 (650b), and 29", with larger diameters providing better rollover ability on rough terrain.

Kids’ & Commuter Bikes: Range from 12" to 24" for kids and 26" to 700c for hybrids and city bikes depending on frame size.

Tire Width

Narrow (23-28mm): Found on road bikes for minimal rolling resistance and maximum speed.

Medium (30-45mm): Common for gravel, touring, and commuter bikes, offering a balance of speed and comfort.

Wide (2.1"-2.6" MTB & 4"+ Fat Tires): Wider tires provide better grip and shock absorption on technical trails and soft surfaces like snow or sand.

Tread Profile (Grip & Rolling Resistance)

Smooth/Slick: Best for road and commuter bikes, reducing friction for fast, efficient rolling on pavement.

Semi-Slick: Light tread on the sides with a smooth center for mixed surfaces like gravel and packed dirt.

Knobby: Deep tread patterns for mountain bikes, offering superior grip on loose terrain, mud, and technical trails.

4. Tire Weight & Casing

Lightweight Tires: Improve acceleration and climbing efficiency but may wear out faster. Ideal for racing and performance road bikes.

Reinforced/Tough Casing: Adds puncture protection for gravel, touring, and commuter bikes, reducing the risk of flats.

Tubeless-Ready: Found in many high-performance road, gravel, and mountain bike tires, allowing lower pressure for better grip and fewer pinch flats.

Smaller vs. Bigger MTB Tires: Pros & Cons

Choosing the right mountain bike tire size
affects your bike's handling, speed, and overall ride feel. Here’s how smaller
and bigger tires compare:

Smaller MTB Tires (26” & Narrower 27.5”)

✅ Pros:
- More agile and responsive, making quick turns easier.
- Lighter weight improves acceleration and climbing efficiency.
- Easier to maneuver in tight technical terrain.

❌ Cons:
- Less traction and stability on rough or loose surfaces.
- Harder to roll over obstacles like roots and rocks.
- Less comfortable on long rides due to reduced shock absorption.

Bigger MTB Tires (29” & Wider 27.5”)

✅ Pros:
Better rollover capability, smoothing out rough terrain.
Increased traction due to a larger contact patch.
More momentum and stability at high speeds.

❌ Cons:
- Heavier, which can make acceleration and tight maneuvering slower.
- Requires more effort to control in tight switchbacks.
- Slightly less playful feel compared to smaller wheels.

Mullet Setup (Mixed Wheel Sizes: 29” Front /
27.5” Rear)

A mullet bike combines a larger 29” front wheel with a smaller 27.5” rear wheel,
offering the best of both worlds. This setup is increasingly popular in downhill and enduro riding.

✅ Pros:
- Front Wheel (29”) Rolls over obstacles more easily, provides better stability and traction.
- Rear Wheel (27.5”) More agile and responsive for quicker cornering and playful handling.
- More clearance in the back, reducing the chance of tire buzz (especially for shorter riders).
- Great for aggressive riding, as it balances speed and maneuverability.

❌ Cons:
- Can feel unbalanced if you’re not used to mixed wheel sizes.
- Harder to find replacement tires compared to standard setups.
- Slight weight difference between wheels can affect jumping and manuals.

Who Should Ride a Mullet Bike?

Enduro & Downhill Riders Need the stability of a 29” front but want the agility of a 27.5” rear.

Aggressive Trail Riders Looking for a playful, fast setup that excels in technical terrain.

Shorter Riders Benefit from a smaller rear wheel for easier bike handling.

Which One Should You Choose?

Smaller (26” or narrow 27.5”) Best for riders who prioritize agility, quick handling, and playful riding styles.

Bigger (29” or wider 27.5”) Ideal for riders tackling rough terrain, long descents, or prioritizing stability and speed.

Mullet (29” front, 27.5” rear) You get the best of both worlds if you need the stability of a 29” front but want the agility of a 27.5” rear.

The Powertrain: Gears, Cranks & Drivetrain Basics

The powertrain, also known as the drivetrain, is the system that transfers your pedaling power to the wheels. It includes the crankset, chain, cassette, derailleurs, and shifters, all working together to optimize efficiency and performance. Choosing the right setup depends on your riding style and terrain.

Drivetrain Configurations: 1x vs. 2x/3x

1x (Single Front Chainring): Common in mountain, gravel, and some road bikes
✔ Simpler, lighter, and easier to maintain
✔ Less risk of dropping the chain on rough terrain
✔ Wide-range rear cassette provides plenty of gearing options
✘ Larger jumps between gears can make fine-tuned cadence harder
✘ Less total gear range than multi-chainring setups

2x or 3x (Double/Triple Front Chainrings): Found on road, touring, and some older mountain bikes
✔ More precise gearing for efficient pedaling
✔ Larger total gear range for steep climbs and fast descents
✘ More moving parts = higher maintenance and weight
✘ Requires more shifting adjustments while riding

Cassette & Gear Range

Road Bikes: Typically 11-28T or 11-32T, favoring tighter gear steps for smooth cadence.

Gravel Bikes: Wider range 11-34T to 11-42T, helping with mixed terrain and steep climbs.

Mountain Bikes: Large 10-50T or 10-52T cassettes, offering extreme climbing capability.

Commuter & Hybrid Bikes: Moderate 11-36T or 11-42T, balancing efficiency and ease of use.

Crankset & Chainrings

Compact (50/34T) or Standard (53/39T) Road Cranks: Best for speed and efficiency on pavement.

Gravel Cranks (46/30T or 1x with 38-42T): Provide a balance of speed and climbing ability.

MTB Cranks (1x with 30-36T or 2x with 24/38T): Optimized for steep terrain and technical riding.

E-Bike Cranks: Shorter crank arms (typically 160-165mm) for better clearance and cadence control with motor assistance.

Electronic vs. Mechanical Shifting

Mechanical: Reliable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

Electronic (Shimano Di2, SRAM AXS): Faster, more precise shifting with wireless control but at a premium price.

Brakes are one of the most important components of any bike, affecting
safety, control, and overall riding performance. The two main types of bike
brakes are rim brakes and disc brakes, each with their own strengths
and ideal use cases.

Disc Brakes vs. Rim Brakes

Disc Brakes (Hydraulic or Mechanical)

Pros:
✔ Stronger and more consistent braking power, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
✔ Less wear on the wheel rims, extending wheel lifespan.
✔ Better modulation (control over braking force), reducing the risk of skidding.

Cons:
✘ Heavier than rim brakes, adding a bit of weight to the bike.
✘ More complex maintenance, especially for hydraulic disc brakes.
✘ Can be more expensive than rim brake setups.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Use fluid to
transfer braking force, offering more power
and precision.
Mechanical Disc Brakes → Use
cables instead of fluid, making them easier
to maintain but less powerful.

Rim Brakes (Caliper or V-Brakes)

Pros:
✔ Lightweight and simple to maintain.
✔ More affordable than disc brakes.
✔ Common on entry-level road bikes and some commuter bikes.

Cons:
✘ Less effective in wet, muddy, or steep conditions.
✘ Wears down the wheel rims over time, requiring rim replacements.
✘ Less stopping power compared to disc brakes, especially for gravel, MTB, and e-bikes.

Caliper Brakes: Found on road bikes,
lightweight but limited tire clearance.

V-Brakes (Linear Pull): Common
on hybrid and commuter bikes, offering stronger stopping power than calipers.

Brakes by Bike Type

Road Bikes: Rim brakes on lightweight race bikes, disc brakes on endurance and gravel models.

Mountain Bikes: Hydraulic disc brakes for powerful, precise stopping in technical terrain.

Commuter & Hybrid Bikes: Disc brakes (preferred) or V-brakes for reliability in all
conditions.

E-Bikes: Always use disc brakes due to the added speed and weight of motor assistance.

A properly chosen saddle and seatpost can make a huge difference in comfort,
pedaling efficiency, and overall ride experience. Whether you're riding long
road miles, hitting technical trails, or commuting daily, finding the right
setup is key.

Choosing the Right Saddle

Saddles come in different shapes, widths, and padding levels, designed for different riding styles:

By Riding Style

Road & Gravel Bikes: Narrow, lightweight saddles with minimal padding to maximize pedaling efficiency and prevent thigh chafing.

Mountain Bikes: Slightly wider, durable saddles with more padding to absorb trail impacts.

Commuter & Touring Bikes: Wider, cushioned saddles for upright riding and long-distance comfort.

E-Bikes: Extra padding to accommodate extended seated riding and motor-assisted speeds.

By Features

Cutout vs. Non-Cutout: Cutout designs relieve pressure on soft tissue and improve airflow.

Padding Type: Gel for comfort, foam for lightweight performance.

Width Matters: The right width depends on your sit bone measurement—wider for more upright positions, narrower for aggressive riding.

Women's Saddles: Designed for Comfort & Support

Female riders often benefit from saddles
specifically designed for their anatomy. Women generally have wider sit bones than men, which means a wider saddle with proper support can enhance comfort and prevent pressure points.

Key Features of Women's Saddles:
✔ Wider Shape: Provides better sit bone support for a natural riding position.
✔ Shorter Nose: Reduces pressure on
soft tissue, improving comfort on long rides.
✔ Cutouts & Channel Designs:
Help relieve pressure and increase airflow.
✔ Extra Padding (for Some Riders): Gel
or foam padding can enhance comfort, especially for commuters and recreational
riders.

Should Women Always Use a Women’s-Specific Saddle?

Not necessarily! Saddle comfort is highly
individual, and some female riders prefer unisex or men’s saddles depending on body structure and riding style. The best way to find the right fit is through sit bone measurement and test rides.

Seatposts: Standard vs. Dropper Posts

The seatpost connects your saddle to the frame and plays a crucial role in comfort and adjustability.

Types of Seatposts

Standard Seatpost: Fixed position, commonly used on road, commuter, and gravel bikes.

Dropper Seatpost: Adjustable height at the push of a lever, found on most modern mountain bikes and even some gravel bikes.

Pros of Dropper Posts:
✔ Allows instant saddle height adjustment for descents and climbs.
✔ Increases control and maneuverability on technical terrain.
✔ More comfortable for aggressive downhill riding.

Cons of Dropper Posts:
✘ Heavier and more expensive than standard posts.
✘ Requires more maintenance due to internal mechanics.

How to Set Saddle Height & Position

Height: A proper saddle height ensures efficient pedaling—your leg should have a slight bend (about 25-30 degrees) at full extension.

Tilt: Keep the saddle level for comfort—nose up can cause discomfort, nose down may lead to slipping forward.

Fore-Aft Position: Adjust to balance weight distribution and prevent knee strain.