Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes are built tough and have large tires. These bikes are made to withstand a good beating. You can ride them off-road, through mud, up rocky slopes and more. With advanced gear systems, you can be a real adventurer on one of these. But, mountain bikes are heavier than other bikes and are not ideal for riding on pavement or city streets.

But if you like the idea of being able to ride on any surface, this is probably the bike for you!

Road Bikes
Road bikes are built for speed. You can zip around on pretty much any paved surface. The skinny tires, light frame and variable gears are ideal for getting from one place to another in a hurry. However, if you come across gravel or a dirt road then you're in trouble. Road bikes are not made for off-roading and shouldn't be used for such activity.

So if you're planning on sticking to the pavement, then you might wanna check out a road bike!

Hybrid Bikes
Hybrid bikes are like a combination of a mountain bike and a road bike. The tires are slightly larger than the road bike and the frame is a bit more heavy-duty. This helps the bike in light off-road situations.

If you're not tackling rugged hills and you're not racing, then this is a really good bike for you. It'll give you a lot smoother ride than the mountain bike and a lot more durability than the road bike.

BMX Bikes
If you’re more interested in doing tricks and racing through mud than in getting from one place to another then a BMX bike is for you. BMX stands for “Bicycle Motorcross” and these are special bikes built to take a thrashing. You’ve probably seen people ride these bikes at the X-Games or other events like that. The bikes aren’t really built for road use, but if you like off-roading and flying through the air then a BMX bike is right for you. Just be sure to wear a helmet!

Beach Cruiser
Beach cruiser bikes are made for smooth, leisurely rides – such as down the beach boardwalk. These bikes feature big tires which provide nice cushion and a comfortable ride. Since they often only have one gear they are not ideal for riding on hills or if you want to race.

If you’re looking for a nice smooth ride and you’re not in a hurry to get anywhere, then a beach cruiser is really the way to go.

Folding Bikes
These bikes are perfect for commuters and students. You can ride into class and then just fold your bike up like a briefcase! These are often simple bikes built for city riding, but if you’re into saving space, then it’s perfect.

Tandem Bikes
Don’t like riding alone? Check out a tandem bike. These bikes are specially designed with two seats so you can always have a friend with you. If you enjoy talking and sharing the work of pedaling then this is the bike for you. However, it’s not really a good choice if you like being alone, going off-road, racing, or performing tricks. It looks kinda cool though.

Those Old-Timey Bikes with one Big Wheel and one Small Wheel

I’m not sure where you can find one of these today, but you’d be the coolest kid on campus if you rode to class on this bike. This is the perfect choice for those who fear technology, think it’s 1890 or have handlebar moustaches.