How To Buy A Mountain Bike That Is Right For You
Before driving to the local mountain bike shop with your wallet in hand, it may be a good idea to ask yourself what your goals are for mountain biking. Are you interested in riding the local fire roads near your house, or jumping off the steepest mountains at the state championship? Are you a seasoned rider looking to upgrade, or a new mountain bike rider purchasing his first MTB.
For most, a new mountain bike is an investment that will be enjoyed for many years. So determining your goals for mountain bike riding is the first step when selecting your new MTB. With plenty of riding styles out there, manufactures have responded by producing a selection of mountain bikes to fit your riding goals.
Buy the best mountain bike within your budget. If mountain bike riding is in your long-term future, spending as much as you can is usually best. Buying a bike with mid-level components similar to Shimano’s XT group is usually best in the long-term as compared to its lower LX class sibling.
If you decide to upgrade later on, it will cost you more to buy the component group separately than if you paid the extra money to get a better bike with the upgraded components as manufactures receive volume discounts that most retailers don’t. In addition, there is no installation cost, or you having to do it yourself.
Is it best to purchase a MTB from your local mountain bike shop or go online? The main benefits of buying online are a lower price and greater selection. However, one of the most important things to consider when purchasing a mountain bike is bike fit. Everyone has a different body structure so buying a MTB that maximizes your comfort and energy distribution is usually best.
Purchasing from your local mountain bike shop may cost you a bit more, but they are usually the local experts when fitting a bike to your physical frame. Trying to fit yourself with a bike fit expert over the phone or with online guides can only take you so far. A disadvantage with purchasing at your local MTB shop is selection. Bike stores typically are dealers that sale certain MTB brands so visiting a few bike shops in your area may be best to find that mountain bike that is right for you.
Another choice is to pay for a good bike fit from your local bike shop then order online with the stats provided and have your local bike shop fit the MTB to your measurements. However, most local MTB shops will include the bike fit if you buy a MTB from them. Weigh the options and savings to see which approach is best for your budget and time constraints.
Check out the forums and ask your fellow MTB riders. There is nothing like getting real world reviews of the MTB you’re thinking about from mountain bikers who are riding the MTB model you’re considering. With knowledge on the strengths and weakness of the MTB model, they are a great source of help.
Here are five universal mountain bike styles you may want to consider:
1. All-Mountain Bikes – If trails and climbing mountains is your thing, but also steep declines, you may want to consider an all-mountain bike. The geometry provides excellent stability in rough, steep situations as compared with the typical trail bike.
With four to six inches of suspension, the all-mountain MTB provides good trail riding, plus allows you to take-on light stunt work too. If the trails, freeriding and downhill riding interest you, an all-mountain bike may be the best MTB for you.
2. Cross-Country Race Bikes – If off-road speed is the name of your game, than this bike is for you. With steep angles, and three to four inches of travel, cross-country race bikes handle well and are fast on moderate terrain.
3. Cross-Country Trail Bikes – these MTB bikes are it if you are looking for an all around mountain bike. With three to five inches of suspension travel, these MTB bikes provide good comfort, and climb with maximum efficiency. If you’re a mountain bike rider who likes challenging terrain, this MTB may be for you.
4. Downhill Race Bikes – if you’re a downhiller looking for speed, this may be the mountain bike for you. With six inches plus suspension travel and a strong, well built frame, these MTB bikes can take it down the mountain. However, if you love to climb trails, the added weight may make your climb a bit tougher.
5. Hardtail Bikes – If you like the pavement, or a smooth off-road course, a hardtail may be the best MTB for you. With front-only suspension, it is lighter and usually less expensive than most dual suspension mountain bikes out there.
When choosing a MTB, consider that each type has its strengths and weaknesses on the trail. Remember, when you have more suspension and a sturdier frame, you have more weight and tougher hill climbs ahead of you, but easier downhill’s.
Finding out which riding style you enjoy the most then working backwards to other styles may be the best starting point for choosing your new mountain bike.
Keith Rejino is a personal trainer, mountain biker, and sports photographer for Dreamscape Images. His XC Mountain Bike website provides MTB race coverage, and training and nutrition tips for the mountain biker. For more information on how to Buy A Mountain Bike, check out Dreamscape Images MTB site.
Tags: bike, biking, buy bike, buy mountain bike, buy mtb, cycle, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike accessories, mtb accessories, sports
| cycling