How do you do research on looking for a new bike?

Bicycles: How to Choose on this link from R.E.I. - http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/bicycle.htm...

It's all based on "where & how" you will be riding. The biggest mistake people make is purchasing a bike based on looks alone. They'll buy a mountain bike because it looks cool or "macho". And then the bike is NEVER ridden off-road. Like buying a Jeep Wrangler for city life.

A good all around type bike is either a comfort bike or hybrid. Very versatile & can still be taken on light (man-made) groomed trails of crushed stone.

Five simple words... Go to a bicycle shop. Not only can you test ride anything you like B4 the purchase - they ENCOURAGE it! They want you to be happy for many, many years to come.

Edit: Answer courtesy of a die hard CARDINALS fan.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/standings/index.jsp?tcid=mm...

Go to a bike store - preferably NOT one that has the latest $5000 carbon fiber models and trendy fixies - you want a bike store that has a variety of models, from touring bikes and hybrids to clubman type all-round sporty bikes and commuter bikes. The bike you get will depend on what type of riding you'll be doing.

For a good all-round bike, go for something like a Raleigh Clubman - something not too sporty but able to be used for friendly club rides, and also able to add a rack and a couple of panniers if you decide to go touring - or just to pick up a few groceries on the weekend.

If you want serious carrying power, go for a hybrid or (if you have the money) a touring bike like a Raleigh Sojourn or Surly Long Haul Trucker. I've done long distance touring on a hybrid - they tend to be cheap and sturdy, though they are a bit heavy.

Avoid mountain bikes unless you actually want to ride off-road a lot.

A good quality bike today is going to set you back between $700 and $1300. You can get a hybrid for a bit less. I just bought myself a Surly LHT and the difference in quality is very clear. However, I did cycle happily for decades on low-cost bikes, so I'm sure you'll be happy enough even if you have only $400 to spend - or even less if your budget is nonexistant.

You can start with the review below. Then visit a few local shops. Ask your friends what they ride. There are great bikes for below one grand. I paid $800 for my bike in March 2011 and got 5k miles to date without a problem. But if you don't know how to take care of your bike, you will have to visit your mechanic more often. Start by finding a bike shop you could do business with.

Go to the local bike shop and tell them where you want to ride. Pro bikes run in the thousands you don't need to spend that much.

Off the actual of my head, i'd say Buell blast, or ninja 250...the two actual good starter highway motorcycles. Edit: I advise, you suggested you opt for some thing with a small look. The ninja 250 has that, and it nonetheless seems intense-high quality. i'd say there is no longer something incorrect with 4 sec 0-60, and a real end of 120ish...it rather is sufficient to get you in difficulty on your first motorbike. i'd say do no longer rush into highway driving. A 1000cc motorbike is gonna get you killed at this element.

so

is there some reason you can;t go to a bike store then?