Introduction
Mountain biking is undoubtedly one of the most popular past time activities in the world. If you have just entered this exciting world, you are probably preparing to purchase your first mountain bike. However, the myriad of models, prices, and types of bikes will make your endeavor a bit tricky. In a sense, buying a good mountain bike is fairly similar to buying a good car. Since you are new to this, you will need some guidance, and, for that matter, we will go through some key considerations you should make when choosing your first bike.
Consider your budget
The prices of mountain bikes can vary wildly. While some low-quality ones can sell for as low as $150, the best mountain bikes can easily reach a price of a few thousand dollars. The key here is finding the perfect balance. Since you are a beginner, you should avoid unreliable, dirt cheap ones. However, you should also avoid spending 6 or 7 thousand dollars on a bike you won’t need.
Of course, the higher the price, the higher the quality of the bike, as well as its performance. When looking for a decent bike, you should pay attention to those that feature hydraulic disc breakers, strong parts, as well as some carbon fiber components. Such a bike should not cost you more than $1000.
Types of bikes
Next up, you should familiarize yourself with the most popular types of mountain bikes, to know which one will suit you the best.
XC bikes
These are also known as cross-country bikes. As such, they are mostly focused on providing more efficiency, than handling technical terrain types. XC bikes are typically lightweight, with a suspension system that excels at providing maximum forward momentum. They also feature gearing that maximizes efficiency and speed as well. When it comes to the XC racers, hardtails are among the most popular choices. However, full-suspension bikes are also becoming more available and popular too. These bikes feature a geometry that is more suitable for climbing, which might make them more difficult to control and handle on descents.
Enduro bikes
These are mainly designed for those that relish in endurance races. As such, enduro bikes are perfectly suited for extended rides covering fairly large distances, as well as terrains bigger than trail centers with technical descents and climbs. An enduro bike will feature a plethora of slack head angles, usually around 66 degrees, which allow for safe descents. Along with steeper seat tubes, around 76 degrees, which provide enhanced traction and power on climbs. When it comes to the suspension travel, it is typically between 140 and 160 mm.
Trail bikes
Since these bikes are designed for all-purpose riding, one will probably suit you the best, until you have mastered advanced riding techniques. Trail bikes are good at both descending and climbing and are suitable for the majority of terrain types. Their head angles are usually around 68 degrees, while the suspension travel is typically between 120 and 140 …