Introduction
Mountain biking is exhilarating in that you get to go outside, get fit, take an adventure and feel comfortable in nature. The problem is that there is a wide variety of mountain bicycles on offer, so choosing the right mountain bicycle can … This guide is for beginner or experienced riders seeking your first bike or seeking to upgrade to a better model. In this article, we will briefly discuss about different types of mountain bicycles, things to consider before buy a mountain bike along with tips on how to select the right mountain bike for your needs.
How to Understand Mountain Bicycles
There are different types of mountain bicycles, so before you purchase one, it is important that you understand each one so that you may determine what you are purchasing and the processes you might have to endure. In turn, each one is designed for specific terrains and riding styles.
1. Hardtail Mountain Bikes
In a hardtail mountain bike, the suspension fork is in the front but no rear is present. These bikes are for beginners and those who lean towards the riding style of being more efficient at climbing and requiring lower maintenance. They are suitable for:
- Trail riding
- Cross-country biking
- Light off-road terrain
For most people, a hardtail bike is why they choose mountain biking. They do not have rear suspension which means they are lighter, more efficient, and easier to pedal uphill. It also reduces the complexity of maintenance as there are fewer moving parts involved in the system which in turn is associated with lower long-term costs. Hardtails are generally preferred by cross-country, and long-distance riders since hardtails are always excellent and agile at transferring power.
2. Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes
While hardtail bikes only have the shock absorption of their front fork, full suspension mountain bikes have both front and back shock absorbers. These types of bikes are meant for rough trails, downhill riding and of course when riding on technical terrain. Benefits include:
- Enhanced comfort on rocky trails
- Better control and traction
- Ideal for challenging terrain
Riders that encounter rough and unpredictable terrain, often, would want full-suspension bikes. These tend to be more expensive than hardtails but are most popular for those riders who want the ability to absorb shocks from rocks, roots and jumps. However, since there’s more parts moving, they require more maintenance, and since they’re heavier it’s harder to climb on compared to a hardtail.
3. Trail Riding Bikes
Magical trail riding bikes are versatile and well-balanced bikes for both climbing and descending. They typically feature:
- Medium suspension travel (120mm to 150mm)
- Lightweight frames for efficiency
- General mountain biking and singletrack trails are ideal for this bike.
Mountain bikes are trail bikes among the most popular mountain bikes because of their ability to handle many different types of terrain. They offer a compromise between climbing efficiency and decent control and, therefore, are suited to riders who demand a bike that performs well on the uphill and downhill sections. In general, these bikes usually handle a ride more comfortably over prolonged periods of time due to their relaxed geometry.
4. Downhill Mountain Bikes
Their primary function is to tackle terrains that are steep and rugged. With a strong and powerful braking system, they are built with heavy-duty frames to handle high-speed descents. Features include:
- Longer suspension travel (170mm to 200mm)
- Heavy-duty construction for durability
- Best for extreme downhill trails
Downhill bikes are engineered for speed and control on steep descents such as found in downhill racing and some harder extreme surroundings. Their slack geometry improves their stability at high speeds, and they are equipped with powerful hydraulic disc brakes to send them to a stop quickly, and reliable suspension that absorbs their bumps from jumps, drops and treacherous roots and rocks. Because of their specific design they are not to be recommended if used for climbing and you will mostly encounter them with shuttle-assisted riding or ski lift.
5. Fat-Tire Mountain Bikes
Fat–tone mountain bikes have large tires for sand, snow and loose surfaces. Benefits include:
- Extra stability and grip
- Comfortable ride over rough surfaces
- Suitable for all-weather conditions
Riders who are keen to explore uneven terrains like beaches, deserts and snowy trails, among others, will find taking a fat bike a good experience. With their wide tires they are able to ride over soft ground with ease and traction and flotation are both excellent. Although heavier and slower than standard mountain bikes, they allow a riding experience that attracts adventure seekers and backpackers with new blood.
6. Electric Mountain Bikes (E-MTBs)
An electric mountain bike has a motor or battery-powered motor to help with pedaling. They are a great option for:
- These riders are after extended range and endurance.
- Those recovering from injuries or with limited physical strength
- For the people who wish to have an off-road cycling without too much stress.
The E-MTB revolutionizes mountain biking to enable a wider range of riders to ride an E-MTB. An additional benefit of these bikes is that they are equipped with pedal assist technology which give added power for steep climbs or for long rides so that you can avoid being exhausted. However, they are heavier and more expensive than traditional mountain bikes and the batteries should be taken into account on longer expeditions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mountain Bicycle
Once you have understood the different types of mountain bicycles, its now time to look at the factors to be considered before buying one.
1. Frame Material
Any bicycle, unless a freestyle BMX bike, has a backbone and that is its frame. The weight, price, and durability of the bike is affected by the material used (Tate 2008).
- Aluminum – which is lightweight and affordable and used in most entry-level and mid-range bikes.
- Carbon Fiber – Stronger and lighter than aluminum but more expensive.
- Steel – Durable and comfortable but heavier.
- Titanium – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant but costly.
When you are choosing between a frame material, take into account your budget and what you prefer to ride. The most common lightweight material used, due to its affordability and good strength-to-weight ratio, is aluminum. Competitive riders who want to save weight and perform prefer carbon fiber. Both steel and titanium frames are very durable, with steel being the least expensive of the two.
2. Wheel Size
There are several different wheel sizes of mountain bicycles that change handling and performance.
- 26-inch wheels – Older standard, less common now.
- 27.5-in wheels (650B) – find a balance between having a 29er roll and race efficiency with the shorter, more playful nature of smaller wheels.
- 29 inch wheels (29ers) – Long rides, better rollover, more stability.
Wheels larger than the usual allow a smoother run over obstacles but stay less space, and wheels smaller than the usual are more maneuverable and leave more space. Some riders prefer stability and efficiency, and choose 29ers; the others may lean towards agility and choose 27.5-inch.
3. Suspension System
The appropriate choice in terrain dictates the correct selection of suspension.
- Rigid (No Suspension) – Found on some fat bikes; best for smooth terrain.
- Hardtail (Front Suspension Only) – Suitable for cross-country and trail riding.
- Full-Suspension – Best for technical trails and downhill riding.
4. Gear System
In mountain bicycles, there are different gear systems, changing the speed and managing the control.
- Simpler single-speed bikes, but limited to flat or even steeper moderate trails.
- Offer good versatility for climbing and descending, as the bicycle has multiple gears (1x, 2x, or 3x drivetrains).
5. Braking System
Brakes are of utmost importance for safety and control and, therefore reliable.
- Rim Brakes – Found on older or budget bikes, less effective in wet conditions.
- Disc Brakes – Offer better stopping power and durability. They come in two types:
- Affordable- but takes more effort is the Mechanical Disc Brakes.
- Most of these parts are Hydraulic Disc Brakes which are more responsive than V brakes and do not require much maintenance in comparison.
Conclusion
There are quite a few factors to consider in choosing the right mountain bicycle, such as terrain, budget and personal preferences. Making the best decision whether you choose a hardtail mountain bike, trail riding bike, or full suspension depends on understanding those features. Putting in the right bike will make the journey safer and more pleasant one.
If you’re a firm believer of mountain biking, then invest in the model of your wishes by researching, trying different models and testing them before finally purchasing the bike. Happy riding!
