BIKE WEEK: Which type of bike is right for me?

Bike Week is nearly here: the national event runs from June 9 - 17 in the UK, and is a great reminder of how good it can feel to be on two wheels.

For some people the process of selecting and buying a bike can be overwhelming.

It doesn't have to be though and Halfords' in-store experts will always talk you through a purchase to make sure you get the right bike for you.

Here's a guide to the range of bikes available and why they might be the best choice for you and your little ones…

Balance bikes

These little two-wheelers are great for getting under-fives up to speed. They use their feet to move themselves along but it helps them learn to balance – this can mean they move to a bigger bike without stabilisers more quickly.

Halfords' pick: The is now £60 (save £15)

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Kids' bikes

Usually easier to choose than than adult bikes, these are very much for training your little one to cycle. Often supplied with stabilisers fitted, these are the ideal way to get your youngsters excited about bikes. They'll learn about balance and braking without the worry of gears.

Halfords' pick: The  is bright and fun and offers a load of fun accessories. it's now just £60 (save £15).

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BMXs

For anyone who wants a stunt bike, the BMX is where it's at. These bikes certainly aren't designed for speed. Stunt pegs on the rear or front axle will help your kids do things that you'll only be able to watch with one eye closed, but will exhilarate them. Just make sure they wear a helmet, and perhaps knee and elbow padding.

Halfords' pick: The  has great U-brakes for stopping power, a great gear ratio (to help you build up speed quickly for tricks) and alloy wheels. Right now it's down to £116 – a saving of £29.

Mountain bikes

Designed for going off the beaten track these tough bikes are ideal if you want to go offroad and tackle mountains and hills with ease and enjoy the real thrill of cycling. 

Halfords pick: For kids who want to hit the trails we love Halfords' and  bikes. For adults the offers modern features like front suspension and disc brakes. Right now there's a saving of 20 per cent off a range of kids' bikes at Halfords while the Vengeance is down to £264 – a saving of £66.

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Classic bikes

These are largely about a particular look and a step-through frame which makes these bikes easy to get on. Vibrant colours usually involve pastel tones and shade to reflect your personality. You'll also get a chain guard - ideal for keeping oil away from your clothes - and seven gears, making these great leisure bikes.

Halfords' pick: A cool mint colour makes the  (£224, save £56), an ideal choice for and adult rider looking for style and comfort.

Road bike

The definition of a road bike is a little tricky these days, as there are several similar categories. However a road bike usually has drop handlebars for speed. They're ideal for on-road use, as long as the roads are well-maintained. They're lightweight and built for speed. If you're new to these bikes then keep an eye out for potholes, they can buckle your wheel in extreme cases. These bikes are, however, the most efficient way to travel on good surfaces. 

Halfords pick: The  is very much designed to get your adrenaline pumping and give you an amazing on-road cycling experience. The 16-speed gears mean it can tackle any hill and deliver awesome speeds. Right now its priced at £260 (save £70).

Hybrid bikes

These are like road bikes in that they are light and fast but they also have a slightly more rugged design that should allow them to be taken places that a road bike wouldn't go. They're not mountain bikes, but if you sometimes hit the parks and woods near your house this is what you want to pick.

Halfords' pick: With front and rear disc brakes, 24-speed gears and an aluminium frame the  (£264, save £66), is a great choice if you want on-road and off-road performance.

Folding bikes

Useful if you commute with another type of vehicle but need to cycle as well. You can take folding bikes on trains, put them in the boot of a car or just carry them if needed. They generally fold to a compact size, useful for inner-city living where storage is a premium so they're a great commuter tool.

Halfords' pick: Down to £200 (save £50), the  is the perfect commuter tool. With seven gears and puncture-protection tyres it will be your daily companion for years to come.

E-bikes

A new category in relative terms and one that offers a power-boost to your own pedal power. What they do offer though is a way to help you up hills or give you extra oomph when you need it most. 

Halfords' pick: Commuters will enjoy the for £600 (save £150). 

Make sure you are Really Ready For Summer with Halfords. Visit  or go in-store for full details on all offers and services.

Prices correct at time of publication.

This article was written in partnership with  for express.co.uk. Offers end June 4.