FAQs

• Q: Do I need a strap rack or a hitch rack?
  Hitch racks offer the highest carrying capacity (up to four bikes), but require a receiver to be installed on the vehicle. Strap racks are lighter and easier to install, but are limited to up to three bikes. The rack rests on the vehicle, so care must be taken and the vehicle should be clean where the rack rests to avoid scratching the finish.
  
  For more information, check out our video, CHOOSING THE RIGHT RACK on our Car Racks How-To Videos page.
  
• Q: How old does my child need to be to ride in a child carrier?
  Your child must be able to hold his/her head up easily while wearing a helmet (usually around 1-year-old).
• Q: Which light is best for me?
  If you are riding on well-lit roads, flashing front and rear lights may be sufficient. If you are riding on dark roads or trails, look for a strong, high-lumen light with a wide beam. A narrow beam, like a flashlight, causes “tunnel vision,” making it difficult to see the roadway and objects around you.
  
  For more information, please check out our video, CHOOSING THE RIGHT LIGHT on our Lights How-To Videos page.
  
• Q: Which lock is right for me?
  Bell offers a number of different bike locks to help deter bike thieves. From cable locks to U-locks, key locks to combinations, there's one for every type of rider. Check out our video, CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOCK on our Locks How-To Videos page.
• Q: What is the best pump for me?
  If you're inflating your tires at home, a floor pump is the best option. They move the most air and are the most efficient option, not only for bike tires but for sports gear and inflatable toys as well. In addition, they can handle high-pressure inflation jobs that many smaller, portable pumps cannot.
  
  Foot Pumps provide another option for at-home inflation. Their smaller size makes them easier to store and some people find them easier to use as well.
  
  Frame pumps provide a quick, simple solution for inflating your tires or fixing a flat on the road or trail. Their small size and light weight makes them easy to mount to your frame or simply carry in your hydration pack or messenger bag.
  
  No matter what your inflation need is, there’s a reliable Bell pump that’s up to the task.
  
• Q: Which saddle should I buy? Which saddle is most comfortable?
  Saddles come in all shapes and sizes and no one saddle is perfect for everyone. It all depends on how you sit on the bike. If you like to sit upright, you should ride with a wider saddle, since you’re carrying most of your weight on your bottom. If you ride in a more aggressive, leaned over position, you’ll find a narrower saddle will reduce chafing and allow maximum force to the pedals.
• Q: How much weight can I carry in my bag?
  You should never carry more than 4 pounds (1.8 kg) in any handlebar bag for safe bike handling. Rear bag capacity is dependent upon the rack on which it’s installed. Check with the manufacturer to confirm any weight restrictions. Never carry more than you are comfortable handling. The weight can affect the way your bike handles and make it difficult to control.
• Q: How do I determine my current tire size?
  Like a car tire, you bike tire’s size can be found on the sidewall. On most tires you’ll see a number pairing like … 26 x 1.75-2.25.
  
  The first number (26”) refers to the approximate outer tire diameter while the other number(s) indicate the tire width, or in this case the range of rim widths this tire will fit
  
  The number pairing on road bike tires is usually a little different. You’ll see something like … 700 x 32-45c.
  
  The first number (700) roughly corresponds to the tire’s outer diameter in millimeters. The second number indicates the width or width range in millimeters.
• Q: How do I know which tool is right for me?
  For more information, check out our video, HAVING THE RIGHT TOOL on our Bike Maintenance How-To Videos page.