Many people start by buying a mountain bike, even though they have no intention of riding up any mountains or even on dirt trails. Mountain bikes are just naturally more comfortable for the new rider than "road" bikes. The position is more upright, the fat tires ride more smoothly, the saddle is usually wider and better cushioned, and there is less chance of puncturing. There is a greater sense of freedom on a mountain bike, something I like when I am just out exploring.

A road bike, on the other hand, is much easier to pedal on pavement. It may take a bit longer to feel comfortable on one, and you'll find yourself scanning the road ahead for tiny pebbles to avoid puncturing. If you plan on joining others for a group ride, you'll find it easier to keep up with a road bike.

There are "hybrid" bikes that are in between - an upright position with moderately-sized tires. These seem like a good option, but if you really get interested in cycling, you'll find yourself wanting a road bike and a mountain bike. It may be best to get one or the other first.

All bikes are highly adjustable. The saddle can be raised or lowered, moved fore or aft, and tilted up or down. You can switch to a different saddle if all else fails - I have a box full of rejected saddles myself. The handlebar can also be raised or lowered and moved fore or aft by changing the "stem".

In fact, the strongest advice I have is that you should buy a bike from a shop that will adjust the bike to suit you, including swapping saddles and stems. This may mean bringing the bike back several times. You'll be surprised at the difference a small adjustment can make to your comfort. The brake and shifter mechanisms can require frequent adjustments; make sure the shop is willing to show you how to do them yourself.

Don't be too concerned with all the technical differences among different bikes in different price ranges. Bikes are made up of dozens of individual components from different companies - there is little hope of becoming familiar with all the options. Likewise, even a materials engineer will have trouble sorting out the claims made for steel, aluminum and composite frames. You generally get what you pay for, in either reliability, performance or the simple pleasure of operating precision machinery.

If you think you'll ride more miles on a more expensive bike, then it will be worth it.

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Curt Austin has a PhD in Materials Engineering, rides aluminum bikes, maintains the web pages for the Queen City Wheels at www.qcw.org, and can be reached at curt@AustinImage.com. © 1998, Curt Austin