What bike should I buy? - Cycling

Tips regarding bikes accessories.When you buy a bike at a bicycle shop, the salesperson will probably try to push accessories. The shop makes a fairly small percentage of profit on the bike, but a much larger percentage on accessories. In some cases, they make more on what you buy along with the bike than on the bike itself. Consider your needs and remember you can always get more gadgets later. If you ever plan to leave your bike anywhere farther away than you can reach, you should lock it. You can get a good solid bar lock, a less secure chain or cable, or a very minimal but lightweight lock. In some situations, a minimal lock is sufficient. Left overnight in a dark urban alley, there is no lock that is sufficient. In most cases, you should buy a lock as soon as you have a bike. If you think you will ever be caught out after dark, consider a good blinking light or two. A helmet is a very good idea. Remember that 70% of bike accidents don't involve cars, so your helmet can save you even if you are riding entirely off-road. I personally like a mirror for riding in traffic. I want to know what is going on behind me. If I see something crazy, I'll be able to get off the road until it passes. You can also buy carrying equipment, although a plain old backpack is the best way to carry a light load. There are many more things you can buy for your bike such as fenders, speedometer (cycle computer), different pedals, tires, handlebar grips, and so on. One thing you can do when buying a new bike is to bargain at the bike shop for free or reduced-price accessories plus free installation. Don't be afraid to ask. Most bicycle shops are in competition with other stores, and will be willing to consider some negotiation if they think you might buy somewhere else. The range is going to be less than 10% in most shops. They don't make a whole lot on the bike itself. And, they'd rather give you additional products instead of cash off, because it costs them less to give you a $20 tire pump that they bought wholesale than to give you a $20 reduction.