What type of bike would be best for cardio workouts and some leisure riding?

Mary J P: What type of bike would be best for cardio workouts and some leisure riding?
I am considering training for some type of race but I am a true beginner here. At the very least, I would like to get a good workout. I am not sure I want to delve into the “road bike” types as I think I may find them uncomfortable.

Also, I rode a “fitness bike” made by Giant recently. Any clue to what a “fitness bike” is and if this is what I should be looking at?

Answers and Views:

Answer by jman4117
A fitness bike is a somewhat of a flat bar racing style bike. You get a hybrid’s more upright posture with the weight and gearing of a racer. It’d probably be a good bike for you unless you want to do a good bit of commuting on it. In that case lean more to the hybrid and commuter bikes.

Answer by M R
1st answer is good. There are about 10 bike “types” very similar in the fitness, cross, commute, comfort etc category. If you like the fitness type they are usually some of the lighter faster models.

I understand your concern about a road bike, I’ve ridden them for decades and know how people feel about them. and they truly do have a limited use. That’s why I have a few bikes…

A fitness bike is just that – for someone (like you) not into road bikes but wants to be able to ride hard and fast in a more upright position.

Giant FCR series looks pretty good to me. Check out some others but the Giant is a good quality bike and may be a good choice for what you want now.