It's surprisingly hard to know which bicycle is best for commuting to work or school, isn't it?

You might be tempted to choose based solely on price, but that could 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 bike that suits your needs.

■ Road Bikes

Recommended: ★★★★★

Price: ★★★

For those who want to enjoy cycling not only for commuting but also as a sport, a road bike is an incredibly appealing option.

They are ideal for medium to long-distance riding, and some even say they are not "bicycles" but rather "road bikes" as a distinct mode of transport.

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

They are characterized by drop handlebars that curve significantly inwards in a U-shape and thin tires, about 2 cm wide.

On flat, paved roads, they are designed to minimize air resistance and tire friction for high speeds.

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

With around 20 gears, you can enjoy smooth starts and comfortable top speeds.

■ MTB (Mountain Bikes)

Recommended: ★★★★★

Price: ★★★

Originally, mountain bikes were designed for riding on unpaved, rough terrain such as mountain paths and gravel roads.

The name "mountain bike" makes it easy to understand.

Key features include handlebars that are close to flat, thick and knobby tires (for bicycles), disc brakes that stop effectively even in wet conditions, and suspension that absorbs vibrations during riding.

Even if not all these elements are present, a bicycle with some of them is still called an MTB.

They can be ridden easily in urban areas, on trail rides in mountainous areas, and on rough terrain like riverbeds.

For commuting to work or school, bicycles often travel along the gutters at the side of the road.

There can be significant bumps, so an MTB is recommended for its stable ride, and its tire grip makes it less likely to slip on slippery iron manhole covers in the rain.

■ Cross Bikes

Recommended: ★★★★★

Price: ★★

A "cross bike" combines the best features of road bikes and mountain bikes.

The frame is lightweight, like a road bike.

The handlebars are often flat, like those on a mountain bike.

They are also known as "hybrid bikes."

The forward-leaning posture allows for efficient power transfer and stable handling.

The lightweight frame also allows for quick starts.

On the road, they can often accelerate faster than cars at the start.

Sometimes it's hard to distinguish them from city bikes, but their weight and price are completely different.

They are suitable for commuting, riding along the roadside, and also for long-distance riding, like road bikes.

■ Minivelos (Compact Bikes)

Recommended: ★

Price: ★★

Actually, the author's favorite type of bicycle is the "minivelo."

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

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

Also, they are easy for shorter people to ride and can be ridden by both adults and children.

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

They can be stored in a small space, and some small models are even compact enough to fit in elevators, making them popular among apartment dwellers.

The front wheel is less stable, making them unsuitable for long distances, but they are recommended for city riding with frequent stops. There are various types, such as city-riding models with baskets and sporty road bike types, so you can choose according to your purpose.

■ Folding Bikes

Recommended: ★★

Price: ★★★

Many have a hinge in the center of the frame, allowing the bicycle to be folded in half without tools.

There seems to be every type of bicycle available as a folding bike, 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 can be folded like eyeglasses when one side of the triangular frame detaches, while others have frames that shrink like a magic hand to about half their 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 on road trips.

For commuting, they are convenient in emergencies, such as when the bicycle breaks down and needs to be picked up by car.

■ City Cycles (Mamachari)

Recommended: ★★

Price: ★★★★★

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

While some people might think "mamachari" is the official name, "city cycle" is the correct term.

Many models lack a frame connecting the seat post and handlebars, making them easy to mount and convenient for women wearing skirts.

They are easy to ride, stable, and used in various situations like commuting to work/school and short shopping trips.

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" (also called "mantis handlebars") which curve like a bow with only the grips bent back towards the rider, and "flat handlebars" where the grips extend horizontally.

Each type changes the rider's posture while riding.

This, in turn, affects which parts of the body get tired.

■ Summary

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

Many people tend to choose a "mamachari" based on price, but if you choose a "road bike," you'll be amazed at how lightly and quickly it rides, making your commute enjoyable.

Also, if there are many rough roads, choosing a "mountain bike" will provide a stable, safe, and comfortable ride.

When considering bicycles for yourself, or for your children or grandchildren's commute to school or work, it's important to also think about safety aspects.

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