Blog • December 18, 2025

How to choose the right bike for your riding

Choosing the right bike can seem complicated with so many models on the market. Mountain bike, hybrid, e-bike, road bike or tandem: each type has its advantages depending on your needs, your lifestyle and the kind of riding you have in mind. Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice.

two people mountain biking in the forest

1. The mountain bike

two people mountain biking in the forest

The mountain bike is designed for rough terrain and uneven surfaces. It’s the ideal choice for cyclists who like to leave paved roads and explore nature. Thanks to its sturdy design, it offers excellent stability and control, even on difficult trails.

Main features:

  • Front or full suspension
  • Wide, knobby tires
  • Strong, durable frame
  • Powerful brakes (often disc)

Recommended use:

  • Forest rides
  • Mountain trails
  • Gravel roads or unpaved paths
  • Sporty outings in nature

The mountain bike is perfect for adventurous cyclists looking for freedom, challenge and the fun of riding off the beaten path.

2. The hybrid (or city) bike

The hybrid bike is an excellent compromise between a road bike and a mountain bike. Versatile and comfortable, it’s designed for different types of routes, which makes it very popular with urban cyclists and casual riders.
It offers a more upright riding position, which improves comfort and visibility, especially when riding in town.

Main features:

  • Comfortable riding position
  • Medium-width tires
  • Light, versatile frame
  • Practical equipment

Recommended use:

  • Urban trips and daily commutes
  • Bike paths and paved roads
  • Gravel roads or easy trails
  • Leisure rides and occasional outings

The hybrid bike, also called a city bike, is ideal for anyone looking for a versatile, comfortable, easy-to-use bike that isn’t limited to one type of terrain.

3. The e-bike

a man removing the battery from his e-bike

The e-bike is ideal for those who want to pedal with less effort while enjoying longer, more accessible rides. With pedal assist, you can tackle climbs, cover greater distances and ride comfortably, whatever your fitness level.
It’s an excellent option for daily commuting as well as sightseeing rides.

Main features:

  • Electric pedal assist
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Comfort and stability
  • Versatile models

Recommended use:

  • Daily trips and commuting
  • Long or sightseeing rides
  • Hilly routes
  • Cyclists who want to reduce physical effort or ease back into cycling

For rentals, e-bikes are reserved for riders 18 and older. See our e-bikes. The e-bike is an excellent choice for anyone looking for comfort, range and flexibility, with an enjoyable riding experience accessible to everyone.

4. The road bike

The road bike is designed for performance, speed and endurance on pavement. Light and aerodynamic, it’s made for cyclists who like to ride long distances and improve their performance, for sport or for fun. It’s the ideal bike for a smooth, efficient ride on paved roads.

Main features:

  • Light, stiff frame
  • Thin, smooth tires
  • Aerodynamic riding position
  • Precise drivetrain

Recommended use:

  • Sporty rides and training
  • Long distances on paved roads
  • Performance or active leisure cycling
  • Cyclists looking for speed and efficiency

We rent road and touring bikes by the day. The road bike is perfect for thrill seekers, personal challenges and long rides on pavement, where performance and fun go hand in hand.

5. The tandem

A couple on a tandem bike

The tandem is designed for two people to ride the same bike. It focuses on sharing, coordination and fun rather than pure performance. It’s an excellent choice for a friendly, unique experience, as a couple, with family or with friends. Thanks to its stability and design, a tandem lets two cyclists enjoy a ride together, even if they don’t have the same level of experience.

Main features:

  • Two synchronized seats
  • Greater stability
  • Shared effort
  • A friendly experience

Recommended use:

  • Sightseeing rides and city discovery
  • Outings as a couple, with family or with friends
  • People who want to share an activity together
  • Cyclists looking for a fun and original experience

Want to try it? Rent a tandem. The tandem is ideal for those who want to experience cycling differently, in a spirit of teamwork and shared fun, while discovering their surroundings together.

Tips for choosing well

  • Decide on your main use : city, sport, leisure, off-road.
  • Think about how often and how long you ride : light bikes for performance, comfort bikes for regular rides.
  • Try the bike before buying to check comfort and handling.
  • Consider your budget : some models, such as e-bikes or tandems, require a bigger investment.

Ready to find the perfect bike for your adventures?

Whether you love speed, city rides or riding as a pair, Cyclo Services has the bike you need. Come try our models on site and rent the bike that fits your ride.
Get personalized advice from our experts so you can head out with confidence and have an unforgettable bike experience!

Rent the bike you need

City, electric, road or touring, tandem and kids’ bikes, from the Old Port.