Bicycling FAQ

Which helmets are safest?

Two of the most important safety things to remember when purchasing a bicycle helmet is that the helmet fits correctly and it meets current safety standards as required by the United States Consumer Product.

A correct fit means level on your head, touching all around, comfortably snug but not tight. The helmet should not move more than about an inch in any direction, and must not pull off no matter how hard you try. It is also a good idea to purchase a white or a bright colored helmet for visibility to be sure that motorists and other cyclists can see you.

As long as you buy a good helmet and take care of it, does it last forever?

No! It may last forever, but that doesn't mean it'll provide protection in a crash forever. In fact, helmet manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every five years because the materials in a helmet break down over time causing the helmet to lose some of it's impact-absorbing ability.

How do I know what type of bike to buy?

When purchasing a new bike you first need to consider the type of riding you will be doing. There are four main bike styles to choose from

• Road Bikes are light and designed for riding on paved streets and going fast. They won’t stand up to any off road work and are only meant for use on paved streets. 
• Mountain Bikes are a more stable ride and can handle rugged terrain without falling apart. They do not go as fast as road bikes but they do have a wider range of gears suitable for climbing.
• Hybrid Bikes are a cross between a road and a mountain bike and offer the best features of both. They are a good choice for most city riding, and offer speed, durability and comfort.
• Cruisers are the easy ride of the bike world. They are commonly used for shopping or a general amble. They are easy to maintain but work best with flat terrain and a rider whose main interest is more about being comfortable than with going fast.

We suggest you come into the nearest Al's Bicycles location and take a look at our selection and have a test ride! We have a wide selection of bike models in vary sizes, styles and colors. Our expert staff can help you find the perfect bicycle for every type of cycling.

What size bike/frame should I get?

To avoid feeling cramped or awkward on your new bicycle you should ensure the bike frame, seat and handlebars are sized correctly for you. We suggest visiting your nearest Al's Bicycles for a custom fit. The following is used to determine what size bike/frame is right for you:

• Your height and the length of your inseam
• That you can safely and comfortably get on and off the bike
• That the seat can be placed in a comfortable and efficient position for pedaling
• That the reach to the handlebars is comfortable

Do you repair bikes?

Yes, we do repairs on all bicycle makes and models.

Do you rent bicycles?

Sorry, we don't.

Do you fix flats?

Yes, we carry a full line of tubes and tires and have bicycle mechanics at every location to do repairs. Check out some of our bike services here.

What can I do to prevent flat tires?

• The number-one cause of tire problems is riding with too little air pressure. Purchase a bike pump that includes a gauge and check your tires pressure regularly.
• When biking, try to avoid the area of the road where debris collects. If you do hit a patch of debris rub the thick padded part of your glove against the tire a few times. By doing this, you can remove anything that has embedded itself into your tire before it has a chance to go deeper.
• Check your tires for wear and tear after every ride. If you do discovery any minor cuts or punctures dig out any debris and seal the hole. Let the air out of your tire, then pump it full again. This will help set the sealant in the gouge and hopefully protect against further problems.
• Purchase better bike tires and change them on a regular basis. You can't ride on one pair forever because the walls will get worn and allow foreign objects easy access to the tube.
• Store your bike inside, or at least out of the weather. Excessive temperatures, sunlight, snow and rain can increase the wear of the tires and your chances of getting a flat tire.

When do I need to replace my chain and how do I get the right one?

There are a lot of people new to cycling who are not aware that a bike chain is considered a "consumable", that is expected to be replaced periodically. They usually find this out when their bike no longer shifts smoothly, or they experience chain slip while pedaling.

The easiest way to check your chain's condition is by measuring it with a ruler. Rest the ruler alongside the bottom length of chain (beneath the frame) and see if you can measure exactly 12 inches between 2 pins. If the chain is still in good shape, you'll be able to do this. If you try this and the measurement is 12 1/8 inches or more, it means your chain is worn out and should be replaced.

Can I lose weight by biking?

Yes. Recreational bike riding is a safe, low-impact, aerobic activity for Americans of all ages. A 150-pound cyclist burns 410 calories while pedaling 12 miles in, an hour. A 200-pound cyclist burns 546 calories while going 12 miles per hour.

Biking is done on a machine that supports your weight. Consequently, there's no impact on your feet, ankles, knees and back. So, you're a lot less likely to get injured as you roll up the miles.

Why should I buy a bike from a bike shop versus a big box store?

Budgets are tight in these economic times but by purchasing your new bike from Al's Bicycles, instead of a discount department store, you receive numerous advantages that will ensure a lifetime of cycling enjoyment.

Bike Shop Bike Advantages

• Each Al's Bicycles has experienced bike mechanics and offers free adjustments for life with purchase.
• People come in all sizes and need the expert fit a bike shop can provide. The result is a  safe, comfortable ride on the right-sized bike, properly adjusted. Test rides and follow-up fittings available.
• We offer a wide selection of bicycle models in varying sizes, styles and colors as well as replacement parts and biking accessories.
• Our bikes are assembled in store by bike mechanics and test ridden to ensure proper function and safety. Al's Bicycles will stand behind its work and your new bike should last for years.
• All bikes come with full warranties.
• Your bike will have some re-sale value, if you should want to up-grade to another bike one day or pass your bike down.

• Support your local community! Each Al's Bicycles stores will help you find the great rides, latest bicycling info, biking facilities and biking events in Oklahoma. Check out our events page!

What biking accessories do I need?

Heading the list are helmets. Be sure to pick a helmet that's comfortable and fits. A saddlebag can be very handy. They attach under the saddle and are great for carrying your identification, house key, money and cell phone.

You will need a few fix it tools for making simple repairs. A patch kit, a set of tire levers and an extra tube will all come in handy fixing and patching bicycle tires. And last but not lease is a bike pump.

Should I purchase a bike mirror?

There are two kind of mirrors that you can utilize for bicycling: helmet mounted, and side view mirrors. The reason to use a mirror is to have an idea of what is coming from behind you at all times, where without one you would need to turn your head to check. The mirror can add a level of satety to some riders while others feel like it is an obstruction to their view.

Choosing to ride with or without a mirror and what kind is a preference for every individual rider.