You’ve seen the mountain bikers shredding down singletrack and getting airborne on dirt jumps. And you’re ready to join the fun. But before you buy a mountain bike, there are a few things you need to know.
Mountain biking is a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and explore trails and terrain that you might not be able to access on foot or with a road bike. But it’s also important to choose the right mountain bike for your riding style and ability level.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to buy the best mountain bike for your needs. We’ll cover topics like frame materials, suspension, wheel size, and more. By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge you need to buy the perfect mountain bike for your riding style.
So let’s get started!
When it comes to mountain bikes, there are a few different types to choose from. The type of bike you choose will depend on your riding style and the terrain you plan on riding.
Here’s a quick overview of the different types of mountain bikes:
Cross-country bikes are designed for speed and efficiency on relatively smooth trails. They have lightweight frames and suspension, and they’re typically equipped with 29-inch wheels.
Enduro bikes are designed for technical downhill riding. They have heavier frames and suspension than cross-country bikes, and they’re usually equipped with 27.5- or 29-inch wheels.
Trail bikes strike a balance between cross-country and enduro bikes. They’re versatile enough to handle a variety of trail conditions, and they’re typically equipped with 27.5- or 29-inch wheels.
Downhill bikes are designed for riding fast on steep, technical trails. They have the heaviest frames and suspension of all mountain bike types, and they’re usually equipped with 27.5- or 29-inch wheels.
Now that you know the different types of mountain bikes, let’s move on to frame materials. The frame is the main component of any bike, and it’s what everything else is attached to.
Mountain bike frames can be made from a variety of materials, but the most common are aluminium, carbon fibre, and steel. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of weight, durability, and price.
Aluminum is the most common material for mountain bike frames. It’s lightweight, durable, and relatively inexpensive. Carbon fibre is the lightest material used in mountain bike frames. It’s also very strong and stiff, but it’s also the most expensive material. Steel is heavier than aluminium or carbon fibre, but it’s also very strong and durable.
Now that you know about frame materials, let’s talk about suspension. Suspension is what allows your mountain bike to absorb bumps and jumps on the trail. Most mountain bikes have front suspension only, but some have full suspension (front and rear).
The amount of suspension you need will depend on your riding style and the terrain you plan on riding. Cross-country bikes typically have less suspension, while enduro and downhill bikes have more.
One final thing to consider before buying a mountain bike is wheel size. Mountain bikes come with either 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels. The bigger wheels of 29ers roll over obstacles more easily, but they’re also heavier and can be harder to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
27.5-inch wheels are lighter and easier to manoeuvre, but they don’t roll over obstacles as easily as 29ers.
So, which wheel size is right for you? It depends on your height, riding style, and the terrain you plan on riding. If you’re taller, or if you plan on riding mostly on smooth trails, 29ers might be the way to go. If you’re shorter, or if you plan on riding on technical terrain, 27.5-inch wheels might be better.
Now that you know everything you need to know about mountain bikes, it’s time to start shopping! Head to your local bike shop or browse online retailers to find the perfect mountain bike for your riding style and budget.
Happy shopping!
