News

As a beginner, what should you consider when buying a mountain bike?

We spent a year inside the house during the global pandemic, and naturally, now that we have more freedom to roam around, the first thing that comes to mind is spending more time in nature. Combine that with your desire to be more physically active, and suddenly you’re open to new possibilities and want to experience life to the fullest. Well, although there are many outdoor recreational sports to choose from, many people are suddenly drawn to biking.

With that being said, biking is a great way to get in touch with nature while exercising. But, if you’re thinking about seeing the most beautiful bike trails or going on a cycling holiday, you’ll first need to get a quality mountain bike. So, here’s what you need to know before purchasing one.

 

What is a mountain bike?

In simple terms, mountain bikes are bicycles suited for off-road cycling. When deciding what type of bike is best for you, it would be best to consider where you plan on riding. Although mountain bikes have some similarities with other types of bikes, they’re designed mostly to enhance performance when riding on rougher surfaces.

The main difference between mountain and road bikes is that you shouldn’t purchase a road bike if you want to ride on trails. This is because road bikes are lightweight and aerodynamic machines designed to improve your performance while on the road. Mountain bikes, on the other hand, are heavier, and, more importantly, you can use them for both regular and off-road cycling.

Hardtail mountain bikes

Hardtail mountain bikes require little to no maintenance, making them ideal for beginners. If you’re still learning how to ride on trails and don’t intend to go on any cycling journeys in the near future, these bikes may be the best option for you. In addition, as you spend more time riding on trails, hardtail mountain bikes will help you learn how to stay in your seat while riding over bumps, and more importantly, they offer a smooth ride on any terrain.

Full-suspension mountain bikes

A heavier bike with full-suspension is the best option when riding on downhills because it will make you feel more stable and in control. In addition, full-suspension bikes are usually faster than hardtails, even though they are heavier and harder to pedal.

Hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike?

Most mountain bikes have suspension to help you balance while riding on rougher surfaces. Yet, it is of great importance to understand that not all bike-loving folks need the same amount or type of suspension. So, as mentioned earlier, it’s essential to determine your needs before buying a new mountain bike.

Most mountain bikes are well known for their front suspension or a hardtail. On the other hand, full-suspension mountain bikes give you more confidence and the ability to handle your bike even when riding on rough terrain. Of course, both options can provide comfort, but it’s safe to say that full-suspension bikes are more likely to help you maintain a good balance while riding on trails.

Which brand is the best?

If this is your first time buying a mountain bike, you probably want to find the best brand on the market and buy a high-quality bike. But, since you’re a beginner, you shouldn’t be focused on a brand. However, if you’re looking for new parts for your bike, you might want to check the details and the manufacturer’s manual before making an investment.

Bike frame size

Naturally, you wouldn’t feel comfortable riding kids bikes, but you’ll also experience difficulties if you purchase a larger bike. So, If you’re buying a mountain bike online and wondering how to choose the right bike size from afar, you can measure the length of your inside leg, preferably with your shoes on, and subtract two centimetres from that number. The final result will help you choose a bike frame size.

Do you need a gender-specific mountain bike?

We’ve already determined that you need to find the right bike frame size that will make you feel comfortable and well-balanced while riding on trails. However, if you want to invest in a product that will serve you for ages, it’s advisable to consider buying a gender-specific mountain bike. Mountain bikes for women have narrower handlebars and shorter stems, which is what makes riding bikes for women more comfortable.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or want to join a cycling group, there’s a wide range of quality mountain bicycles out there, and you’ll most certainly manage to find the one that provides comfort and meets your needs.

Gear

Riding a bike in shorts or regular t-shirts is a bad practice for many reasons. First, you need to put on clothes made of breathable fabrics to ensure comfort during the ride. Next, the type of footwear you put on before going on a ride will dictate whether you have a good time while reading a bike. What we’re trying to say is that some soles are slippery, and you might lose control over your bike if you decide to put on regular sneakers.

More importantly, be sure to protect your head with a bike helmet and invest in elbow and forearm guards. So, when buying a new bike, it would be best to put these items on the list as well.

Conclusion

If you’re worried about your next purchase, congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of the article, which indicates you really want to get a good-quality bike. Whether you decide to get a hardtail or a full-suspension bike, keep in mind that both options are attractive. However, as mentioned earlier, these bikes have certain characteristics you need to consider before making a purchase.

In addition, if you decide to get a full-suspension bike, it’s vital to remember that this type of bike is heavier and therefore more expensive. Finally, it’s worth noting that protective gear is a must-have, even if you’re an experienced cyclist. So, once you find the ideal bike, be sure to purchase gear before deciding to ride on trails.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Back to top button