Older adults are jumping on to the biking craze in record numbers. It’s good for all aspects of senior health; emotional, mental, and physical. Before they can saddle up and ride, however, they need to know which bike to purchase. Hybrid bikes make an excellent choice for older riders and there are several reasons why.
1. The Seating Position
Hybrid bikes are typically designed with an upright seating position. Unlike road bikes, which put the seat above the handlebars, hybrids place the seat below the plane of the handlebars. This means that the body rides in a more natural, straight position. With less body weight resting on the wrists and arms, older riders can enjoy a more comfortable ride.
2. The Versatility
Unless the older adult is a hard-core racer or endurance rider, they will likely want their bike to cover a wide variety of terrain and environments. Hybrid bikes for women have features that lend themselves to almost any type of ride, such as:
- A step-through frame
- Padded hand grips and saddle
- Customizable accessories
- Hybrid tires for a smooth, comfortable ride
Combining the best features of mountain bikes, road bikes, and cruisers, hybrids are a good choice for seniors who are eager to try riding on trails, roads, paths, and beaches. All are possible with a hybrid.
3. The Ease
Older riders often have a lot of aches and pains. They may ask, “Is cycling good for arthritic knees?” or wonder if back pain will prevent them from riding. Thanks to the gentle angle at which the rider sits on a hybrid bike, it usually puts let’s pressure on muscles and joints. Hybrids also have greater ease in pedaling. They come with two pedal positions, vertical and forward. Both of these allow the riders to have a more ergonomic, natural leg movement.
4. The Frame
Because hybrids combine the best of three bike styles, they can take advantage of all the advancements in frame design. Mountain bikes have heavy, reinforced frames. Road bikes have very light, flexible frames. Hybrids land right in between with frames designed to be lightweight yet sturdy. Look for a hybrid with an aluminum frame as opposed to stainless steel.
5. The Gears
Road bikes can have as many as 27 gears. Mountain bikes might have 20. Older riders may not want so many, especially if they are not going up and down a lot of steep inclines. To avoid confusion and simplify the ride, fewer gears are usually better for seniors. Hybrid bikes for men come with a variety of gear options ranging from one to 21 gears. Therefore, each rider can choose what makes them most comfortable.
It’s Time To Ride
There’s no need to sit on the sidelines at any age. Bike riding is a healthy pastime for the young and old alike. With a well-chosen hybrid bike, older riders can enjoy the ease and comfort of a leisurely ride. Head to your local bike shop to get fitted or get fitted for the right hybrid online.
