When it comes to choosing a bicycle for commuting to work or school, it can be surprisingly difficult to know which one is best.

It's easy to just pick one based on price, but doing so might actually end up costing you more in the long run.

Here, we've summarized the types and features of bicycles, so please use this as a reference to choose the bicycle that suits your needs.

■Road Bike

Recommendation Level: ★★★★★

Price: ★★★

This is a supremely attractive bicycle for those who want to enjoy cycling not just for commuting but also as a sport.

It's ideal for medium to long distances, and some even say it's no longer just a "bicycle" but a "road bike."

The pedaling motion is also special; it's not just pressing down on the pedals like a regular bicycle, but pushing down with one foot and pulling up with the other.

It features drop handlebars that curve significantly inward in a U-shape, and narrow tires about 2 cm wide.

On flat, paved roads, it's designed to reduce air resistance and tire friction for higher speeds.

Some models are extremely lightweight, weighing only around 7 kg.

With about 20 gears, starting is smooth and you can enjoy comfortable top speeds.

■MTB

Recommendation Level: ★★★★★

Price: ★★★

A "mountain bike" was originally designed for riding on unpaved, rough terrain such as mountain trails and gravel roads.

Translated into Japanese, it's "mountain bicycle," which makes it easy to understand.

Its main features include handlebars that are almost flat, thick and rugged tires for a bicycle, disc brakes that stop firmly even on wet roads, and suspension to absorb vibrations during riding.

Even if it doesn't have all these elements, if it has some of them, it's called an MTB.

It can be ridden lightly not only in the city but also on trails like mountain paths and rough terrain like riverbeds.

For commuting to work or school, bicycles often ride on the side ditches of roads.

Since there are considerable steps, stable riding is possible, and while iron manhole covers can be quite slippery on rainy days, the grip of MTB tires makes them less prone to slipping, which is why they are recommended.

■Hybrid Bike

Recommendation Level: ★★★★★

Price: ★★

A "hybrid bike" is a type that combines the best features of road bikes and mountain bikes.

The frame is light, like a road bike.

The handlebars are often flat, like a mountain bike.

It's also known as a "cross bike."

The forward-leaning posture makes it easy to apply power and ensures stable handling.

Since the bike is light, it accelerates quickly.

On the road, it can start faster than a car.

Sometimes it's difficult to distinguish from a city bike, but the weight and price are completely different.

It's suitable for riding on the shoulder of the road for commuting, and also for long distances like a road bike.

■Minivelo

Recommendation Level: ★

Price: ★★

Actually, my favorite type of bicycle is the "Minivelo."

This term generally refers to small bicycles with wheel sizes of 20 inches or less.

Many models have a stylish appearance, and their maneuverability makes them easy for both men and women to use.

They are also easy for shorter individuals to ride, and can be used by both adults and children.

Adults can raise the saddle height to ride comfortably without bending their legs excessively.

They can be stored in small spaces, and some smaller ones can even fit in elevators, making them popular among apartment dwellers.

While not ideal for long distances due to less stable front wheels, they are recommended for city riding with frequent stops. Types include city models with baskets and sporty road bike types, allowing you to choose according to your purpose.

■Folding Bike

Recommendation Level: ★★

Price: ★★★

Most folding bikes have a hinge in the center of the frame, allowing them to be folded in half without tools.

There seem to be all sorts of bicycle types that can be folded, from city bikes to mountain bikes.

Any bicycle that can be folded is generally referred to as a folding bike.

Depending on the type, some have one side of the triangular frame detach and fold like eyeglasses, while others have a frame that shrinks like a magic hand to about half its riding length.

The mechanisms are interesting, and many are stylish, making them popular and space-saving.

They can also fit in a car trunk, satisfying the demand for cycling while traveling by car.

For commuting to work or school, it's convenient in an emergency, as you can retrieve the bicycle by car if it breaks down.

■City Bike (Mamachari)

Recommendation Level: ★★

Price: ★★★★★

This is probably the most common type of bicycle ridden in Japan.

Some people might think "Mamachari" is the official name, but "City Cycle" is the correct term.

Many models lack a frame connecting the saddle to the handlebars, making it easy to straddle and convenient for women to ride even in skirts.

They are easy to ride, stable, and used in various situations such as commuting to work/school and short errands.

They are also perfect for those who want an affordable bicycle.

In terms of style, there are various handlebar shapes.

These include "semi-up handlebars" (mantis handlebars) which arc like a bow with only the grips curving inwards, and "flat handlebars" where the grips extend horizontally.

Each changes the rider's posture while riding.

This in turn affects where you might feel fatigued.

■Summary

There are many different types of bicycles, and the most suitable one depends on the condition of the road and the distance to your school or workplace.

Many people tend to choose a "Mamachari" based on price, but if you choose a "road bike," you'll be surprised at how light and fast it is, making your commute enjoyable.

Also, if you frequently encounter rough roads, choosing a "mountain bike" will provide stable and comfortable riding, in addition to safety.

Whether it's for yourself or for your children or grandchildren commuting to school or work, it's important to consider safety aspects.