How to choose a mountain bike

The mountain bike is often used for extreme off-road riding, although this vehicle can be ridden in the city as well. This technique easily passes bumps, pits and other flaws in the road, but the choice is very large, so each user should know how to choose a mountain bike before buying. This will simplify the choice and help you buy the best bike for any need. The article presents the special features and parameters of bicycles, as well as their types that are available for purchase.

The principle of operation and the device of a mountain bike

Mountain bikes are somewhat different from classic models, in general, their essence remains the same, but there are the following design differences:

• Frame - a reinforced structure with a high-raised saddle is used, in some models a suspension is installed on the rear wheel.
• A powerful fork - often with a shock absorber and its travel is about 8-10 cm.
• The steering wheel is made with a long extension, which gives the desired tilt of the body while driving.
• Wheels - always installed with a large radius, not less than 26, which makes it possible to easily overcome bumps on the road.
• Brakes - Mountain bikes always have a brake system that includes discs, similar to those found on motorcycles, less often pads are used.
• Pedals - they must be wide and not slippery, preferably with a foot lock.

Mountain bikes differ from classic bicycles by the presence of a transmission, which includes sprockets of different sizes, with the help of which the chain is thrown using the switches.

By changing the gear ratio, you can increase your speed or make it easier to climb mountains, without stressing your legs and body. To do this, simply shift the gear with the handle on the steering wheel.

Top mountain bike manufacturers

At the moment, it is difficult to decide which mountain bike to choose, since there are many manufacturers on the market, the more famous the brand, the higher the cost. This is due to the impeccable quality and high reliability. Many companies are engaged in the production of such equipment, but among them the best ones can be distinguished, which should be guided to buy a high-quality model:

• Scott;
• Author;
• Trek;
• Giant;
• Specialized.

The final choice should depend not only on the name of the manufacturer, but also on the individual characteristics of the driver. Before buying, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the main parameters in detail, and then make the final choice.

Types of mountain bikes

When choosing, you should focus on their types of bikes. It helps to indicate how to choose a mountain bike for a man or a boy, a woman, as well as transportation for specific tasks and needs.

Station wagons

The type of bike is considered a mountain bike, but is more often used for urban travel conditions. The design contains all the elements that are typical for MTV, but a simplified transmission is used. In addition, the exterior of the frame differs in shape for a more pleasant and comfortable fit.

Such a technique is not suitable for extreme and serious trails, but ordinary off-road terrain can go well and there is no better model. Often these are hardtails that are visually similar to the cheapest XC.

Pros:

• Optimum frame weight and high frame strength.
• Good fork shock absorption.
• An excellent set of gears, which makes it easy to select the speed for climbing a mountain.
• Affordable pricing policy, considering the type of vehicle.

Minuses:

• Not suitable for professional sports.
• Often includes an inexpensive touring plug, and maybe even a touring transmission.
• Many devices are characterized by the presence of rim brakes.

Read also: The best bikes in terms of price / quality ratio

DH (downhill)

Like all-terrain vehicles, this technique is full-suspension, but the total mass is much higher, since the model is made for descents at high speeds on off-road. The total weight can be up to 22 kg. Such bicycles often have a long fork travel, which starts from 18 cm and more, but the number of speeds is limited to 10. The size of the classic wheels is 26 inches. You will have to pay 100-500 thousand rubles for a quality product.

Pros:

• Very smooth and smooth ride.
• Large wheels that allow the driver to get maneuverability and pass any obstacles.
• High reliability of the braking system and excellent performance.
• Bicycles can reach very high speeds while descending.

Minuses:

• Large mass.
• High price.
• Not suitable for driving on a flat road, as the models take up a lot of power when pedaling.

Allmountain (all-terrain vehicles)

Bicycles of this type are used for active riding, but without extreme. An excellent choice for different types of off-road terrain, which may include rocky slopes. Many products are characterized by the presence of a steel frame or an aluminum alloy, much less often manufacturers offer carbon.

The fork is damped and there is also a suspension for the rear wheel to help absorb shock and vibration from the road surface. Bicycle wheels are often of 26-28 radius, and the brake system is a hydraulic disc type, which is considered one of the most reliable. All-terrain vehicles often have 15 speeds or more, the shape of their steering wheel is curved, and the total weight is about 15 kg. The cost of the goods is average, in the range of 30-600 rubles, but experts do not recommend buying this type of bike cheaper than 60,000 rubles.

Pros:

• The optimal number of speeds for off-road driving without extreme.
• Excellent cross-country ability.
• The frame is sturdy yet lightweight.
• Very high quality and reliable brakes.
• Due to a pair of suspensions, the ride is soft.

Minuses:

• High pricing policy.
• Not suitable for racing and aggressive driving.

XC (cross-country)

The most popular type of bike, perfect for any kind of off-road, extreme and aggressive riding, high-speed movement on a flat surface. The base of the design includes a lightweight hardtail frame that uses a shock absorber for the fork.

Models are often equipped with large and wide wheels that have a clear and large tread. With it, the driver easily maintains his balance in sand, mud and dirt. The braking system can be any, and the transmission should not be less than 21 gears. The price range is quite large, ranging from 30-670 thousand rubles.

Pros:

• The wheels are large, wide and, thanks to the tread, provide excellent traction.
• Versatility that allows you to use vehicles off-road and in rough terrain.
• Lots of speeds.
• Optimal weight.
• Quality front suspension that absorbs shocks.
• Cheaper than other models.

The main drawback is that there are many fakes on the market, especially the drivetrain, which often does not match the parameters of true XC.

MTV (for stunts)

This type is often used for performing tricks and costs the least.All models feature a sturdy, lightweight butted frame made of aluminum. The driver's seat is removable or sold immediately without it. The main purpose of such a bike is trial and performing any tricks in the air. The models do not include speed and shock absorption. The wheels are often small, about 20 inches, and the bicycles are manoeuvrable. Shoe brakes are immediately applied to a pair of wheels. The average cost of a bike is 8-25 thousand rubles.

Pros:

• An excellent choice for spectacular stunts.
• Low weight starting from 7 kg, but high strength thanks to the reinforced frame.
• Small size.
• Good maneuverability.
• Low price.

Minuses:

• Designed exclusively for trial.
• No depreciation.

Read also: Best mountain bikes

Mountain bike selection options

In order to buy the right bike, it is recommended to study in detail the design features and technical parameters.

Rostovka

First of all, the choice and purchase should be carried out according to the height of the person. For this, the size of the frame is taken into account. The main guidelines are as follows:

• XS - models up to 14 inches (35 cm). Equipment of this size will be suitable for children or women with a height of 135-155 cm.
• S - bicycles with a frame up to 16 inches (40.6 cm). We recommend using models with a height of 150-165 cm.
• M - most popular sizes up to 18 inches (45.7 cm). Ideal for average people who are 165-178 cm tall.
• L - options up to 20 inches (50.8 cm), which is suitable for height 170-185 cm.
• XL is one of the largest sizes up to 22 inches (55.8 cm). Frames are considered large and are recommended for people up to 195 cm tall.
• XXL - up to 24 inches (61 cm), a frame designed for users with heights of 190-200 cm or more.

Frame material

One of the main characteristics of a mountain bike, on which its weight and service life depend, is the frame material. In addition, the parameter can indicate the cost of the product. Modern manufacturers can offer the following options:

• Steel is the cheapest raw material, but frames have a number of positive characteristics. Among them are high strength and excellent maintainability, in addition, the structure easily dampens vibrations and shocks. The main disadvantages are susceptibility to corrosion, as well as a large mass.
• Chrome-molybdenum alloy - often replaces classic steel, because the strength is the same, but the weight of the frame is less, and the resistance to rust is higher.
• Aluminum is a great frame option, but the cost is slightly higher. The main advantage is minimal weight and long service life.
• Titanium - frames made of this material are expensive, but there are no downsides. The design is not only lightweight, but very strong, the surface is not scratched, damage and corrosion are excluded.
• Carbon is the most expensive option, which is distinguished by its high cost and excellent quality. In terms of characteristics, it does not differ from titanium, but cheap raw materials will be the middle option between aluminum and steel.

Transmission

It is recommended to look at the number of gears on the bike, the more there are, the better and more convenient it is to adapt to the track:

• High-quality MTVs include from 21 speeds.
• For some models, for example, downhill, the number of switches does not matter.
• For a trial, speeds are not needed at all.

When choosing a transmission, you should choose the right class of switches, based on the main task of transport, driving style and roads. Station wagons for city or cross-country will cost Shimano Alivio, Deore. The greater the load, the higher the class should be chosen.

In addition, you need to decide on the type of switching. It can be lever or rotary. The first option is more convenient, but sometimes speeds can be translated independently.

Depreciation

By the type of depreciation, mountain bikes are divided into several main types:

• Rigid - this option is least suitable for off-road driving. The frame has no suspension at all and can only be used for tricks.
• The hardtail is a popular style, with a shock absorber on the fork and a rigid rear wheel. The suspension helps dampen vibrations and eases handling by reducing stress on the arms.
• Full Suspension - These devices include suspension on both sides.

When choosing a technique according to the parameters described, you should look at the fork travel. This is what will indicate the height of the possible obstacle to overcome and absorption. The more expensive it is, the greater the value should be. Experts advise using the following parameters:

• XC must be 80-120mm.
• For difficult and aggressive rides, it is recommended to buy forks with a travel of 140-180 mm.
• The longest versions are installed on downhill models with a travel of 20 cm or more.

For those who like to ride on different roads, you can buy models with LockOut shock absorbers.It is imperative to check the type of shock absorber on the selected model before buying, as this directly affects the performance and price of the bike.

Popular options include:

• Elastomeric spring - characterized by a small stroke and a low price.
• Oil springs are an expensive but reliable model with no problems for the owner, an excellent choice for a mountain bike.
• Air - work well on small pits, but weak with strong impacts.
• Oil-air - medium type with the pros and cons of oil shock absorbers.

Brakes

For a mountain bike, 2 types of braking systems are installed:

• Rim - devices in which braking is carried out by compressing the pads on both sides, which slows down the movement of the wheel. This option is simple, cheap, but not the most reliable and requires frequent replacement of pads. If the rim is deformed, the operation will be ineffective.
• Disc are an excellent choice for mountain biking, the braking system works effectively in all conditions. The pads are pressed against the rotor itself, which is placed on the wheel axle, without contacting the rim.

Which mountain bike is better to choose

Expert advice will help to simplify the selection of equipment for mountain and off-road driving:

• If you have frequent descents in the mountains, where there is no beaten track or on hills at high speeds, it is recommended to buy a downhill model. This allows you to get a fork with a long stroke, as well as a sturdy frame, the brake system will be disc, which will increase the safety of the driver.
• A bike designed for extreme cross-country racing, it is recommended to take the XC hardtail with 26 radius wheels. The fork should be 10-15 cm of travel, based on oil springs or oil-air adjustment. When choosing a braking system, focus on disc brakes. Pay special attention to transmissions, for example, the middle class is suitable for amateurs. The gearshift speeds must be at least 21.
• To show the maximum skill of owning a bicycle, performing tricks of various complexity, you should choose an MTB for a trial. The main choice falls on lightweight units made from aluminum or carbon frames, and the wheels will fit 20 inches. It is unreasonable to buy equipment with expensive brakes, so rim-type V-brake pads will suffice.
• A device that will be universal for the city and off-road - a hardtail station wagon with a lockable fork. An acceptable transmission in the tourist class, since it makes no sense to buy more advanced options. A rim brake system will suffice.
• For traveling and driving on rough roads, MTV off-road vehicles with a long fork travel, up to about 20 cm, and the ability to adjust it are suitable. It is better to choose disc type brakes.

How much does a mountain bike cost

When figuring out how to choose the right mountain bike, it is also recommended to focus on the cost. The brand, quality and other technical parameters depend on it. Average prices are as follows:

• $ 300 - the simplest options that are suitable for city driving and cross-country walks.
• $ 300-500 is an entry-level vehicle suitable for driving on a flat surface and occasionally climbing a mountain or driving off-road.
• 500-1000 $ - functional options that will be suitable for riding in a mixed cycle, this cost is optimal for touring bikes.
• $ 1000-1500 is an excellent choice for amateurs who are just starting to go in for extreme sports and get used to off-roading. With the help of such a bike, you can spend a long time on the road, travel and remain in complete comfort.
• $ 1,500-2,500 - entry-level racing equipment that is created for competitions.
• More than 2500 $ - professional racing type devices with the best quality and high reliability. Use is recommended only in a narrowly targeted area.

Knowing all the characteristics, approximate prices and types of mountain bikes, anyone can choose equipment for personal needs.