When it comes to choosing road cycling bikes there are many factors you have to take into account.

The first thing to consider is how you plan to use the new bike. Are you going to use it every day to commute to work, are you going to ride it for pleasure every weekend, or are you only going to use it for occasional long distance rides?

If the bike is for regular use then you need to make sure you really enjoy riding it. This sounds obvious, but you don’t want to purchase a bike only to later discover that it is uncomfortable to ride.

Choosing a bike for street riding can be divided into three categories: basic, mid range and top range.

Basic bikes are available from most sports shops and are normally built of cheap components. The good news is that its actually hard to buy a bad bike these days, so as long as you are happy to have a heavier bike that doesn’t include some of the extras top bikes have.

Mid range bikes are often chosen by people who want to regularly cycle (possibly touring as well) without completely blowing their budget. You will normally get some combination of alloy and carbon in the frame, and some of the parts will be pretty good quality. If you buy a bike in this level, you may wish to swap out some of the cheaper parts for better ones as time goes on.

At the top of the range you are presented with an endless amount of comfort and customisation options. If you have money to spend you can ensure the wheels are the smoothest, the seat is well shaped to your body and the handlebars fit snugly in your palms.

Make sure you test ride any bike before you buy.