There are all kinds of bicycles. I like to categorize them by function. I’ll try to give an overview that might be helpful to those of you that really wonder why there are bikes on the road when we have so many magnificent trails in the area. 

There are COMMUTER bicycles. These are a utilitarian type use for commuting, shopping, and running errands. Many have internal hub gearing, fenders and chain guards to keep the rider clean, and to make them more useful they are often equipped with a rack or a basket. Lighting is sometimes included. The tire width is in between that of a road bike and the wide tire of a mountain bike. The riding position is upright allowing good visibility for the rider. . Many commuters will ride in the road as paths, and trails will not always get them where they need to go.

There are MOUNTAIN bicycles. Mountain bikes are designed for off-road riding, they feature sturdy, highly durable frames and wheels, wide gauge heavy treaded tires, and flat handlebars that assist the rider in resisting sudden jolts. Some mountain bikes will have various types of  rear suspension, while all have front suspension. Mountain bikes are rarely seen on the road. The rider is stretched out over the bike for stability.

The ROAD Bike category, covers what many refer to as “racing” bicycles. These bikes are designed for speed. They are used for competitive road racing and triathlons.. They have lightweight frames and components with minimal accessories, “drop” handlebars to allow for a powerful and aerodynamic riding position, very narrow high-pressure tires for minimal rolling resistance, and multiple gears. Road bikes are not safe to ride except on the road. They cannot function properly on the trails. We see them often with groups of riders, who are doing training rides.

Then there are RECREATIONAL bicycles. The emphasis has come back to comfort for the recreational rider, and this category includes both the Comfort bike and the Hybrid bike (sometimes referred to as a Cross). The Comfort bike is basically a mountain bike with comfort features, like a suspension seat post, a comfy seat, and adjustable stem, front suspension, and all purpose tires.  The tires are similar to those on the Commuter bikes are similar to the Mountain bike tire , but without the knobby tread.  Hybrid bikes are a “cross” between a mountain and a road bike. A lighter weight frame, larger diameter wheel with a tire similar to the commuter bike tire – not fat, not skinny, but in-between. You will find the same comfort features including the suspension seat post, comfy seat, adjustable stem, and front suspension.

There are other types of bikes – Touring, BMX, and Cruisers – each with a purpose and style of its own. I think what’s covered above should help relative to that age old question, “Why do we see so many bikes on the road when we have such magnificent trails?” I recently covered some of the history about bikes being on the road even before automobiles. They have a legal right to be there.

Cyclists are to obey the same traffic rules as the motorists. Motorists need to accept the presence of bikes on the road. Together, we can learn to share the road responsibly.