TRAILBLAZER BIKES FAQs - USEFUL INFO

Useful Info

Not sure what type or size of bike to buy?

Then see the chart below

REMEMBER

MOUNTAIN BIKES = OFF ROAD RIDING

LEISURE / COMFORT BIKES (HYBRID'S) = LEISURE & ROAD RIDING

FOLDING BIKES = PORTABILITY, CONVENIENCE & COMMUTING

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Bicycles Rough Guide To Frame Sizing

With so many different types & styles of frame design it's difficult to give a simple answer - but the chart is a pretty good guide.

Getting the correct frame size is important. However there is room for manoeuvre, as saddle and handlebar heights and positions can always be adjusted. Have a look at our rough guide to frame sizing.

If after reading this guide you are still unsure, but would still like to make an order, phone us on 01639 899699 or E-mail us, and we will be happy to advise.

Which size bike does my child require?

Age of Child	Frame size	Wheel Size	Typical Size
1 to 2 years	6	12	6 x 12
2 to 3 years	7 to 9	14	7 x 12 or 7 x 14
3 to 4 years	8 to 10	16	7 x 14
4 to 5 years	9 to 11	18	8 x 16 or 8 x 18
6 to 9 years	10 to 13	20	8 x 18 or 11 x 20 or 13 x 20 or 14 x 20
10 to14 years	11 to 14	24	14/24 or 16 x 24

Which ADULT size bike do I require?

Riders Height In Feet & inches		Mainly Off Road Use Frame Size required	Mainly On Road Use Frame Size required	Hybrid / Comfort / Leisure Bikes Frame Size required
to 5 feet		to 14 inches	to 18 inches	upto 18 inches
5 feet to	5 feet 4	14 to 18 inches	15 to 19 inches	17 to 20 inches
5 feet 4 to	5 feet 8	16 to 20 inches	17 to 21 inches	19 to 21 inches
5 feet 8 to	6 feet	18 to 21 inches	19 to 22 inches	19 to 22 inches
6 feet +		20+ inches	21+ inches	21 inches +

WHAT TYPE OF BIKE

Dual suspension bikes are designed specifically for off road terrain.
'Dual Suspension' refers the suspension units built into the frame and forks which absorb impact from rough terrain.

Good Points
Perfect for downhill racing and extreme terrain riding. Fairly durable
Very comfortable because the suspension smoothes out the worst bumps and allows a higher degree of control when riding on uneven terrain.
These bikes look magnificent and many of the top models are very high tech.

Bad Points
These bikes are not ideal for urban or road cycling.
Over long distances, the suspension can become a hindrance, because the rider uses energy bouncing up and down rather than generating forward drive. However, high-tech suspension systems can counter power-loss. Suspension is generally quite heavy, and so less expensive dual suspension bikes are not particularly light. They also of course have more parts to wear & need attention.

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Mountain Bikes - The nations most popular type of cycle, Mountain Bikes (MTB) are fantastic for urban use because they are durable enough to withstand the demands of our crumbling roads, and are sporty enough for regular off road use.

Good Points
Mountain bikes are extremely practical and generally have plenty of gears. They are designed primarily for off road use and are often supplied with front suspension forks. Some mountain bikes are supplied with front, and or rear disc brakes which are particularly good in wet conditions.

Bad Points
These bikes are not as quick on the road as Road racing bikes or Hybrids.

Should I buy this type of bike?
Yes if you need one dual purpose bike e.g. travelling to work every day, and fancy a bit of off road riding at the weekend.
Yes If you can only afford one bike.

Yes If you want to do 100% off road cycling

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Folding Bikes Designed to fit easily into a car boot or to carry on a train or tube carriage.

Good Points
These bikes are extremely practical, and some of the best designed folding bikes are light, come with a durable carry case, and can be fully constructed in under a minute.

Bad Points
Small wheels are more likely to skid in wet conditions.
Not particularly suitable for long distance riding.

Should I buy this type of bike?
Yes if you are a commuter who has to travel a couple of miles to and from the station at each end of the journey.

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HYBRID / LEISURE BIKES

The nations second most popular type of cycle. Hybrids are named so, as they are a cross between Road Racing Bikes, and Mountain Bikes.

Good Points
Hybrid bikes are extremely practical, and generally have plenty of gears These bikes are designed to provide a good mix of near Mountain Bike's durability and a road bike's speed.
Hybrids come with 700c wheels, (Road bike size) that are fatter with some tread more stable and durable than thin road bike tires, which usually have an upright riding posture and are fitted with comfortable saddle, and are supplied with mudguards and racks fitted suitable for long distance travelling.
Hybrids are sensible multi purpose machines, strong enough to withstand light off road action while fast on the road & are really comfortable to use.
Bad Points
These bikes are not quite as quick as road racing bikes, and are not as durable as mountain bikes.
Should I buy this type of bike?
Yes if you need one dual purpose bike e.g. travelling to work every day, and fancy a bit of occasional light cross county / touring recreational riding. If you plan to use your bike for leisure biking and value your comfort but want a bike that looks and feels sporty, comfort Hybrid bikes are for you.

OR got a problem and don't know the anwer?

Then Pop into our Shop & ask!

We're always happy to Discuss your problems, answer your queries, and after all Advice is FREE!

OR you can e-mail us at trailblazerbikes@yahoo.co.uk. sometimes we're so busy in the shop that there may be delays in replying to e-mail enquiries -- so please be patient, we WILL reply as soon as we are able -- Thank you.

WE WISH TO THANK WWW.WHYCYCLE.CO.UK FOR ALLOWING THE USE OF MUCH OF THE ABOVE DATA