{"id":2354,"date":"2021-01-26T09:08:16","date_gmt":"2021-01-26T09:08:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.welovecycling.com\/ie\/?p=2354"},"modified":"2021-01-26T09:08:16","modified_gmt":"2021-01-26T09:08:16","slug":"cycling-options-for-smaller-budgets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.welovecycling.com\/ie\/2021\/01\/26\/cycling-options-for-smaller-budgets\/","title":{"rendered":"Cycling Options for Smaller Budgets"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you\u2019re new to cycling and are looking for budget entry options or would like to start riding a bike but aren\u2019t sure if you can manage it financially, we\u2019re here to provide some tips to get you riding safely and happily without investing much cash. There are indeed many ways to spend a small fortune if you develop a passion for cycling but there are also strategies and hacks you can use to cut costs while still enjoying the freedom of two wheels. We believe in making cycling accessible to anyone and everyone, so let\u2019s dive into some money-saving cycling tips.<\/strong><\/p>\n

How to buy second-hand<\/strong><\/h2>\n

As with many things in life, you mostly get what you pay for when it comes to bikes \u2013 especially new ones. If you\u2019re looking to get your hands on something shiny and pristine, you should plan to spend at least \u20ac250 for a decent model.<\/p>\n

\"<\/a>
What kind of bike are you looking for? \u00a9 Profimedia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

When it comes to used bikes, on the other hand, you have a bit more wiggle room if you know what you\u2019re looking for and what to avoid. If you’re trying to find your way to budget cycling, here\u2019s what to keep in mind when prowling the second-hand market:<\/p>\n

1. Know what kind of bike you need before you start shopping. Determine what type of riding will you be doing, including terrain,<\/a> and what you\u2019ll need to carry. Figure out your size by consulting online size charts. Knowing your needs will help you avoid impulse buys only to realise that the budget bike doesn\u2019t suit you later on.<\/p>\n

2. If searching online, look at the photos very carefully. Consider whether the bike looks like it has been stored outside and if there is any significant damage to the frame.<\/p>\n

3. Check the brand. If you\u2019re not familiar with it, do a quick search to see what you\u2019re working with. If the bike came from a supermarket or only cost \u20ac100 new, you\u2019d be wise to keep looking.<\/p>\n

Watch out for red flags<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\"Bicycle<\/a>
Check the state of the bike thoroughly. \u00a9 Profimedia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A thoroughly used bike can certainly still have many good years left in it but price and expectations should coincide with the state it is in. When inspecting a bike in person, check to make sure:<\/p>\n

1. The brakes<\/a> work (hold them on and see that there is still a gap between the brake levers and the handlebars).<\/p>\n

2. The wheels spin freely and don\u2019t rub against the brake blocks.<\/p>\n

3. The gears change smoothly.<\/p>\n

4. There\u2019s no noise from the bottom bracket or elsewhere when you pedal.<\/p>\n

Just remember \u2013 although most problems can be fixed, they may require new parts and could end up costing even more than the bike is worth.<\/p>\n

Learn to take care of your bike<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\"Wheel<\/a>
Can you take care of your bike? \u00a9 Profimedia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once you\u2019ve got a bike, the best way to save money in the long run is to take care of it! Check out our pick of top tutorials<\/a> featuring maintenance advice for beginnings and purchase some basic products to help keep your bike clean.<\/p>\n

All-purpose degreasers (that you might already have in the cupboard) can usually do the trick when it comes to cleaning. If you\u2019d prefer a bike-specific formula, allow us to recommend Fenwick\u2019s Concentrated Bike Cleaner<\/a>. For just a few euros, you\u2019ll end up with gallons of cleaning solution to get you through many a regular maintenance clean-up.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t underestimate budget gear<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re looking to do longer journeys or regular fitness rides, you\u2019re going to need appropriate cycling gear. Indeed, the price of designer cycling kits can be shocking for beginners but it is wise to remember that you don\u2019t have to invest in top-of-the-line gear initially. Several supermarket chains like Aldi<\/a> and Lidl offer reasonable cycling ranges where you can find kits and accessories at good-value prices. These aren\u2019t going to be cycling clothes you\u2019ll have for decades but they can certainly do the trick when you\u2019re just getting your feet wet. There are plenty of places to buy gently-used gear online too! Check out The Pro\u2019s Closet<\/a> or Sideline Swap<\/a> to get started.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t skimp on a good lock and puncture-resistant tyres<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\"Bike<\/a>
Invest in the lock.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you\u2019re looking to incorporate cycling into your daily life, there are a few areas where it makes sense to spend more. A good lock is always worth the protection<\/a> and peace of mind it provides.<\/p>\n

You should opt for a quality U-lock at a minimum and consider combining it with a cable lock\u2014 so that one single tool can\u2019t release the bike.<\/p>\n

Puncture-resistant tyres are also a wise purchase for all would-be cyclists. Not only will they save you stress and headaches down the road but they\u2019ll also tend to save you money. Our top pick for reasonably priced and reliable anti-puncture tyres?<\/a> Check out the extremely versatile Schwalbe Marathon Original<\/a>. They come in the standard range of sizes and have a friendly price tag at under \u20ac20 apiece.<\/p>\n

Participate in the community<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Another great way to save money while you continue your budget cycling journey is to get involved in your local cycling community.<\/a> Shops, clubs, and co-ops often host free events and workshops, and by following their activities, you\u2019ll also be notified of any discounts or deals available. Not to mention, there are plenty of experienced cyclists out there who are eager to share their knowledge (and maybe even their lightly-used gear) with beginners!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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