text: First day of spring. Really!
  The ground is still smothered in a layer of snow, but, although it has been a cruel March, things are bound to change for the better.
  And that means it's time for the annual "back in the saddle" lecture.
  The question "what is the best bike?", is still best answered by "it's the one that's best for you". Think about how you intend to use your bike. Are you a recreational rider, and plan to use your bike occasionally in nice weather, or will you depend on it for your daily commute or errands? Do you have to cary children or cargo? Is your commute very long, or do you wish to combine biking with transit? Do you prefer a lightweight, speedy bike, or is comfort a more important consideration? Do you need a bike that has to serve two or more distinctly different purposes? Where do you plan to store your bike?
  If you already own a bicycle which is in sound condition, fits your shape and riding style, and generally offers you enjoyment, the best thing you can do is get it tuned up and keep riding. We can also adjust minor fit problems through relatively inexpensive alterations.
  You should consider a new bike if the one you own doesn't give you what you want. A racing frame that is too big is never going to be made shorter; a mountain bike might be frustratingly slow on a long commute; a comfort cruiser won't let you keep up with your fitness-riding friends.
  If your bike is very worn or in total disrepair, chances are the cost of a thorough repair would exceed its value (except any sentimental value, of course.)
  As a rule, bike manufacturers make several frame sizes of each bike model. Those sizes are based on certain assumptions about the rider's size and proportions, and these assumptions tend to correspond to a male physique more than the female. Men generally have proportionately shorter legs and longer arms and torsos than women. Therefore, if you are female, or a male who falls outside of the "average" build, you may need to modify your bike to achieve better fit.
  Seat height. When you have found the correct frame size, adjust the seat level. When seated, only your toes should be able to touch the ground. If you can plant your feet firmly when seated, the saddle is too low, and you will strain your knees. When pedaling, only the ball of your foot should rest on the pedal, and you should only have the slightest bend in your knee on the downstroke.
  (An important exception to this rule are "flat foot" and "crank forward" bikes available from select manufacturers, which are designed to allow you to put your feet down while seated.)
  Fortunately, these problems can usually be solved through minor alterations, such as replacing the existing handlebar and/or stem, and manipulating the seat adjustment. The cost of such adjustments depends on how extensive they need to be, whether you are buying a new bike and swapping out parts, or modifying a bike you already own.
  Chances are, you will be spending a substantial amount of money when you purchase a new bike. Take the time to find a bike shop that will work with with you on finding the best bike for your needs, and the best fit. Don't buy a bike that doesn't fit you, even if it seems like a bargain. It won't seem that way anymore after you haven't ridden it all summer.