OBERSON BUYING GUIDE
How to Choose a Bike
Bike type, terrain, comfort, and electric assistance: Oberson’s experts help you choose the right bike for how you ride.
AT A GLANCE
How to Choose a Bike
To choose the right bike, start by deciding how and where you want to ride. Road bikes are excellent for long distances on pavement and performance-oriented riders. Gravel bikes stand out for their versatility and can handle anything from paved roads to non-technical forest paths. For trails with roots and rocks, mountain bikes offer the control and durability you need. Hybrid bikes are typically the most comfortable option for commuting and recreational riding. If you want to
reduce leg strain or go farther, an electric bike can be a great choice. Finally, kids’ bikes are designed to match the size and age of young riders.
Which type of bike should you choose for your riding style?
The type of bike you choose depends on how you plan to ride: road, trails, commuting, or
mixed surfaces. The table below provides a quick comparison of the main categories to help you find the kind of bike that meets your needs.
| Bike Type | Perfect for | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Road bikes | Long distances on pavement, speed | Aerodynamic riding position, narrow tires, highly efficient pedalling |
| Gravel bikes | Mixed routes (paved roads, forest roads, easy singletrack) | Wider tires, stable geometry, versatility |
| Mountain bikes | Rocky, rooty singletrack and steep slopes | Suspension (front or dual), knobby tires, durable frame |
| Hybrid bikes | Commuting, bike paths, riding for fun | Comfortable upright riding position |
| Electric bikes | Ride with less effort, go farther, handle climbs | Pedal-assist, integrated motor, variable range |
| Kids’ bikes | Learning and progression based on age | Appropriate sizes, stable geometry |
Road Bikes
If you mainly ride on pavement and are looking for speed or to cover long distances, a road bike is the best choice. These lightweight bikes promote efficient pedalling and an aerodynamic riding position.
• Drop handlebars allow for multiple hand positions
• Smooth, narrow tires to maximize speed on the road
• 700c wheels for efficient rolling on paved surfaces
• Lightweight, stiff frame for optimal power transfer
Depending on how you ride, two types of road bikes stand out:
• Performance road bike — More aerodynamic position, stiff frame, and responsiveness, perfect for racing and maximizing speed
• Endurance road bike — More upright geometry for increased comfort, designed for long distances and less fatigue on epic rides
Gravel Bikes
If you ride on mixed terrain, including paved roads and forest roads, a gravel bike is the most versatile option. Gravel bikes are inspired by road bikes but offer greater comfort, stability, and durability for routes that take you beyond pavement.
• Flared handlebars for added stability and control on gravel roads
• Wider tires for increased grip and comfort on varied terrain
• More stable geometry for better control on uneven surfaces
• Lower gearing for easier climbing on steep hills
• Often compatible with panniers for longer rides and bikepacking
Mountain Bikes
If you primarily ride winding trails with roots, rocks, and steep climbs, a mountain bike is the best choice. Designed for grip, control, and durability, it lets you take on rough terrain with confidence.
• Wide, knobby tires to maximize traction
• Single or dual suspension to dampen shocks
• Stable geometry for better control on descents
• Rugged design to hold up on rough terrain
There are several types of mountain bikes for different types of riding:
• Cross-Country (XC) Mountain Bikes — Lightweight and efficient on climbs, typically with 120 mm of travel or less, perfect for working on your cardio and racing
• Trail Mountain Bikes — 120–150 mm of travel, designed for enjoyable climbing and descending across a wide range of trails
• Enduro Mountain Bikes — Downhill-oriented, with a more aggressive geometry and 140–180 mm of travel, excellent for technical terrain, steep descents, and jumps
Hybrid Bikes
If you’re looking for a comfortable, versatile bike for commuting, bike paths, or casual rides, a hybrid bike is the best choice. Inspired by both road and mountain bikes, it offers an upright riding position and easy handling.
• Flat handlebars for a comfortable riding position
• Relatively wide tires for greater stability on a variety of surfaces
• Often compatible with racks, panniers, and fenders
• Some models feature front suspension to absorb bumps in the road
Electric Bikes
If you want to ride with less effort, go farther, or handle hills more easily, an electric bike is a great option. With a motor and battery, it gives your pedalling a boost while maintaining a natural ride feel.
• Pedal-assist: the motor engages only when you pedal
• Let you ride farther with less fatigue
• Excellent for keeping up with a group or gradually getting back into cycling
• Available in hybrid, gravel, and mountain bike models
Kids’ Bikes
Choosing the right bike for young riders starts with the child’s size and age. Kids’ bikes are designed to safely promote learning, whether they’re riding around the neighbourhood, on bike paths, or getting started on trails.
• Different wheel sizes available based on the child’s height (12", 16", 20", etc.)
• Stable geometry to promote balance and control
• Hybrid and mountain bikes available
How to Choose the Right Bike Size?
Choosing the right bike size is essential for comfort and control. Size depends mainly on your height, as well as the bike’s geometry and the brand.
• Frame size is generally determined by your height and leg length.
• Sizing can vary from one brand to another and based on the type of bike (road, mountain, gravel, hybrid).
• A proper fit allows for a natural riding position without excessive strain on the back, shoulders, or arms.
• If you’re between sizes, choose the smaller one for better handling or the larger one for greater stability.
• The best way to ensure you get the right fit is to try the bike in-store with guidance from an expert.
How do you make sure your bike fits properly?
A proper fit helps you ride more comfortably and with better control.
• Riding position — A position that is too stretched out or too compact can create tension in the back, shoulders, or hands.
• Saddle height — A properly adjusted saddle improves pedalling efficiency. At full extension, your leg should remain slightly bent.
• Adjustments — The stem, handlebars, and saddle can usually be adjusted to fine-tune your
position.
• In-store test — Trying the bike is the best way to ensure a good fit.
A bike that fits perfectly is more enjoyable to ride and will help you get the most out of every ride.
FAQ — How to Choose a Bike
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about choosing a bike.
What type of bike should beginners choose?
The best bike to start off with depends mainly on how you plan to ride. For commuting and casual rides, a hybrid bike is often the simplest, most comfortable option. If you mainly ride on the road, an endurance road bike may be a better fit. For trails, a cross-country mountain bike is often a good choice. The key is to choose a bike that matches your terrain and skill level so you can get the most out of your rides.
What gear do you need for cycling?
Essential items include a helmet for safety, a lock to secure your bike, and lights if you ride in low-light conditions. Depending on the type of riding you do, you may also want gloves, a pump, a repair kit, or panniers. For long rides or frequent outings, padded bike shorts are highly recommended to improve comfort.
What bike should you choose for bike paths and casual rides?
For most people, a hybrid bike is the simplest and most versatile choice for bike paths and casual riding. If you’re looking for more speed and efficiency or want to ride on gravel roads and backroads, a gravel bike can also be an excellent option.
Can you use one bike for everything?
Yes, to a certain extent. A gravel bike is often the most versatile option: it will perform well on pavement and can readily handle gravel roads and even easy singletrack. For simpler use focused on bike paths, commuting, and casual road rides, a hybrid bike is usually the most comfortable, accessible choice. Ultimately, the best all-around bike depends on the type of terrain you ride most often.
Can you ride trails with a gravel bike?
Yes, easy, non-technical trails. A gravel bike can work well on smooth, rolling terrain with few roots, rocks, or steep sections.
For more technical trails, a mountain bike is a better choice.
What is the difference between a gravel bike and a hybrid bike?
Gravel bikes are designed to ride fast on a variety of surfaces, such as paved roads, gravel roads, and dirt paths. They feature flared drop handlebars and a more aerodynamic position. Gravel bikes excel on long rides.
Hybrid bikes prioritize comfort and simplicity. With their flat handlebars and more upright riding position, they’re perfect for commuting, bike paths, and casual rides.
In short, a gravel bike is more efficient on varied terrain, while a hybrid bike is more comfortable for everyday use.
Bikes at Oberson
Find the right bike for how you ride
Whether you ride on the road, on gravel, on trails, or in the city, the right bike makes all the difference. Oberson offers a wide selection of bikes for all types of riding and experience levels. If you need guidance, our specialists can help you choose the right model and size so you’ll be comfortable from your very first rides. Shop online or visit our stores in Laval and Brossard to explore our selection.
