8/26/2011

How To Choose A Mountain Bike

The
first
thing
to do before purchasing a bicycle for
any reason is to know what your
primary riding is going to be. Most
people initially purchase a dual use
bike, something that can be ridden
on road and off road. Eventually,
when the bug bites big it'll be time
to invest in a bike that is all muscle
for the mountains.
One of the ways that mountain bikes
differ from other bikes is that they
have very strong, lightweight
frames, multiple gears, powerful
breaks and wide tires. A comfort
bike, or recreational weekend bike,
touring bikes and cruiser bikes are
built more for comfort than
durability. WIthin the mountain bike
category there are several types of
bikes available; the cross country
bike, the trials bike, the downhill
bike and the jump/slalom bike.
Generally the largest percentage of
mountain bikes sold are in the cross
country, or XC classification. These
are good dual purpose bikes. They
are lightweight and good for riding
over tough terrain, but they are also
comfortable for road riding.
Jump/slalom bikes are also good
dual purpose bikes. They are very
strong and have an excellent front
suspension.
Downhill and trial bikes are for
serious mountain bikers. The
downhill bikes have both front and
rear suspension, disc breaks and are
very strong. A trial bike is for a very
skilled rider. Trail riding itself is a
very competitive sport demanding a
lot of precision. Most riders of
downhill and trail bikes build their
bikes from scratch, choosing each
component individually.
You will want to do a lot of reading
about different types of bikes, and
you'll want to visit many bike shops.
A cross country mountain bike can
cost between $600 and $800 or
more. Some bikers say that your first
bike should be the best bike you can
possibly afford, even if you think
that it's too much bike for you. If
you buy a low-end bike initially and
then find you want to change
components later it can get costly.
Before choosing a bike you will want
to ride it. Most dealers allow for a 15
to 20 minute test ride. If you do a
test ride make sure you go "off
road" if you can, even if it's over
curbs and grass. You want to get a
feel for the bike.

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