Hi-end bikes bringing cycling craze back on road

Shivani Bhakoo

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Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, April 22

Gone are the days when bicycles used to be a common man’s mode of transport. The humble vehicle has covered a long distance and seen great changes over the years. You hit the road and find out all kind of cycles — from your yesteryear to modern and stylish ones.

Today, the cost of hi-end and stylish bicycles is more than that of a small segment car. And the craze for such stylish bicycles is increasing day by day among city residents. Fitness freaks do not mind spending hefty amount to get their hands on hi-end bicycles, which can be customised as per their needs.

International brands have made inroads into the segment largely dominated by Indian brands — giving consumers a plenty of options to choose from. “Indian brand cycles range between Rs 5000 and Rs 20,000. While Avon and Hercules are big players catering to the domestic market, international brands, including Merida, Cannondale, Cronus, GT and Schwinn are the most preferred brands in the hi-end bicycle category,” says Jasman Singh of Bombay Cycles.

“International brands can cost you a minimum of Rs 25,000, which can go up to Rs 5 lakh and above. As these cycles offer comfort ride, gear component, superior body, quality, look, etc., youths and middle-aged people are attracted towards them alike,” says Jasman. Besides, these bicycles can be “customised” as per the owners’ requirement. If someone is suffering from any ailment like back pain or shoulder pain, bicycles are made accordingly. However, these hi-end bicycles have to be well-maintained. They require regular service from the showroom after every three to four months. The weight of a normal Indian hi-end bicycle will be around 14-16 kg, while the expensive ones, costing to the tune of about Rs 2.35 lakh, weigh around 7 kg.

Meenu Thukral, a city resident and an avid rider, pedals over 20-30 km every day. She says cycling is not only the best form of physical exercise, but also acts as a kind of relaxant when you witness natural surroundings, sunrise and sunset and listen to chirping of birds, etc.

There are plenty of options available in the market for bike lovers. The gear component provides great and smooth ride. People these days don’t mind spending extra bucks on bicycles, provided they get a good buy, stresses Sanjana Goyal, another city resident.