Know your bike inside out

The bicycle is probably one of the oldest forms of mechanized transportation used by man. It's simple yet intricate structure has not undergone any radical change or transformation but is being steadily upgraded and diversified with technological advancement.

Commonly referred to as a bike, it is basically a vehicle powered by mechanical energy. The Penny-farthing is probably the oldest known kind of bicycle which has evolved over the years into something more sophisticated such as the mountain bike. A bike is made up of several assembled parts which facilitate its smooth functioning.

Parts of a bike:

1. Chassis or frame: As the skeleton is to the human body, so is the frame to a bike. The frame is a network of tubes which support and integrate the exterior parts of the bike. Bike frames that are lightweight yet sturdy provide optimized usability. The seat tube upholds the saddle or seat of the bike. Check your present chassis for any fractures or damage and make sure you replace it immediately to ensure smooth functioning.

2. Drive train: The drive train consists of the crank arms, pedals, chain rings and bracket which help the wheels to rotate when force is applied. We come across difficulty in cycling when the chain slips much too often. You must consider rectifying this for your own safety purposes. In more advanced versions of bikes, several gears are also present. Shifting gears allow the cyclist to maintain the same pace at which he is pedaling throughout, irrespective of the nature of his track or path.

3. Handle bars: The handlebar is the navigating tool of the bike. The brakes are for the front and rear wheel are attached to the handle bars. Simple bikes have upright handle bars whereas racing bikes or mountain bikes have sleek, dropped handle bars.

4. Suspension: Suspension is synonymous with shock absorption. This provides a smooth and comfortable ride to the biker. It also protects the other parts of the bike from damage due to bad road conditions.

5. Wheels: Bike wheels consist of a metal hub. There is a rim around this hub through which the spokes of the wheel pass. The outer covering consists of a rubber tube and tire.

Apart from the above mentioned, mud guards, rear view mirrors, lights, backpack hydration system and rear or front bike racks are used to further accessorize a bike for practical purposes. Bikes can be broadly categorized as road bikes, mountain bikes and hybrid bikes.

You will find a vast range of specialized bikes and related products on the internet. So take the time out and make the right choice not before having considered all the options available.

Bike riding is more of a pleasurable activity when one has in-depth knowledge of its various parts and mechanism. So next time you are out biking do remember that without those itsy-bitsy parts, all working harmoniously, this experience would not have been possible.