Do A Little Homework First
Before you rush in and kick some knobbies, though, think about how and where you'll ride. If you've got dirtheads for friends, you probably plan to ride with them, which is great because they know the best trails. Just ask and they'll give you an earful about what these rides are, and then we can set you up on a dialed-in rig that'll be perfect for your rides and budget.
Or, if you've got a biking background such as BMX riding and want to try a mountain bike, think about how you'll really use it. For example, if you're interested in popping wheelies, dirt jumping and free riding, you'll want a different bike from the guy who wants to enjoy scenic forest loops.
If you're new to the world of off-road thrills and hills, find out more about the riding around here (or where you plan to ride). We can tell you about the area's best off-road routes and give you advice on bike types and equipment that excels. You might consider asking to borrow a bike from a friend so you can try off-road cycling to get a feel for where and how you'll ride because this information will help you pick the right machine.
Choices Galore
You'll find that there's a fascinating range of off-road bikes and equipment; so much so, that shoppers are sometimes struck with analysis paralysis and have difficulty picking the right bike. We offer lots of tips in this story. But, it'll help you decide (and help us help you decide when you visit our store), if you spend some time contemplating your shopping tendencies. Knowing yourself and what you like is a fine way to narrow down the many new-bike possibilities and ensure that you get a winner.
Evaluate Yourself
For example, are you the type who has to have the best or would you be happier getting reasonable quality at a pleasing price point? Do you like simple designs or are you infatuated with cutting-edge technology? Will you keep this bike for ten years or more or are you thinking that you'll upgrade as your skills and interests develop?
While you're soul searching, give some thought to how much you'd like to spend on your new bike. Shop our on-line catalog to view some models and see how prices vary. And, think about what you'd be comfortable spending. Keep in mind that you often need accessories with new-bike purchases such as a helmet, gloves, shoes and cycling shorts. Because these will add to the bike's purchase price, include some extra in your budget.
Mountain Bike Types
Now that you've considered how you'll bike and have zeroed in on your buying tendencies, the next step is considering what type of off-road rig best suits your needs. Check our chart to see what the different models offer:
Before you rush in and kick some knobbies, though, think about how and where you'll ride. If you've got dirtheads for friends, you probably plan to ride with them, which is great because they know the best trails. Just ask and they'll give you an earful about what these rides are, and then we can set you up on a dialed-in rig that'll be perfect for your rides and budget.
Or, if you've got a biking background such as BMX riding and want to try a mountain bike, think about how you'll really use it. For example, if you're interested in popping wheelies, dirt jumping and free riding, you'll want a different bike from the guy who wants to enjoy scenic forest loops.
If you're new to the world of off-road thrills and hills, find out more about the riding around here (or where you plan to ride). We can tell you about the area's best off-road routes and give you advice on bike types and equipment that excels. You might consider asking to borrow a bike from a friend so you can try off-road cycling to get a feel for where and how you'll ride because this information will help you pick the right machine.
Choices Galore
You'll find that there's a fascinating range of off-road bikes and equipment; so much so, that shoppers are sometimes struck with analysis paralysis and have difficulty picking the right bike. We offer lots of tips in this story. But, it'll help you decide (and help us help you decide when you visit our store), if you spend some time contemplating your shopping tendencies. Knowing yourself and what you like is a fine way to narrow down the many new-bike possibilities and ensure that you get a winner.
Evaluate Yourself
For example, are you the type who has to have the best or would you be happier getting reasonable quality at a pleasing price point? Do you like simple designs or are you infatuated with cutting-edge technology? Will you keep this bike for ten years or more or are you thinking that you'll upgrade as your skills and interests develop?
While you're soul searching, give some thought to how much you'd like to spend on your new bike. Shop our on-line catalog to view some models and see how prices vary. And, think about what you'd be comfortable spending. Keep in mind that you often need accessories with new-bike purchases such as a helmet, gloves, shoes and cycling shorts. Because these will add to the bike's purchase price, include some extra in your budget.
Mountain Bike Types
Now that you've considered how you'll bike and have zeroed in on your buying tendencies, the next step is considering what type of off-road rig best suits your needs. Check our chart to see what the different models offer:
|
TYPE
|
Description
|
Features
|
Ideal Use
|
|
RIGID
|
The basic no frills mtb
bike |
Comfy riding position,
great braking & shifting, durable |
All-around riding on roads and trails
|
|
FRONT SUSPENSION
|
Also called a Hardtail, this is one of the most popular models; it features a suspension fork
|
All the features of the Rigid plus front suspension
|
Increased comfort and control for riding on even the roughest trails
|
|
DUAL SUSPENSION
|
Sometimes called a Dualie or Fully, these MTBs sport front & rear suspension
|
All the Hardtail's features plus a rear suspension
|
Awesome comfort and control great for rugged trails; less impact on the body, too
|
|
FREERIDE
|
Various models resemble the Hardtail & Dualie but have more rugged construction
|
Reinforced frame, wheels and components
|
Serious downhills, steep drop-offs, jumping, road and trail use
|
Keep in mind that within each bike type, there are various designs with significant differences. For example, if you're shopping for a dualie, you'll decide whether you want one with long-travel suspension or a model with less pronounced action. We can point out the differences and explain why you might prefer one over the other.
You'll see an interesting choice on our chart called a Freeride bike. Most manufacturers offer one or two models built ruggedly and designed for downhill speed and to absorb impacts over insane terrain. These bikes feature heavy-duty frames, forks, wheels and components that hold up to rough riding. And, they often sport long-travel suspension. If you intend to ride every drop-off and launch your rig at every opportunity, give these unique MTBs a look.
You'll see an interesting choice on our chart called a Freeride bike. Most manufacturers offer one or two models built ruggedly and designed for downhill speed and to absorb impacts over insane terrain. These bikes feature heavy-duty frames, forks, wheels and components that hold up to rough riding. And, they often sport long-travel suspension. If you intend to ride every drop-off and launch your rig at every opportunity, give these unique MTBs a look.
Most new mountain-bike buyers purchase a model equipped with suspension. Ironically, even if you buy a rigid bike (one without front or rear shocks), you actually get a certain level of suspension thanks to the cushioning effect of the fat tires, which float over bumps (if you don't pump them up too hard).
It's likely, however, that you'll prefer the additional bump-busting ability of a bike with a suspension fork or one with front and rear shocks. These machines offer many advantages for trail riding. Because the wheels are sprung and can travel up and down, they remain in contact with the ground on even the most technical terrain. This results in more speed, traction and control and safer rides. Plenty of mountain bikers in fact, discover that they can easily ride trails they used to fear simply because they have a good suspension system.
Another wonderful thing about suspension is that it greatly reduces the amount of beating your body takes. If you're suffering from a stiff neck or sore lower back on rides, you'll be amazed at the difference a suspension makes. Jolts from big hits are absorbed by the shocks and never have a chance to slam your body so you finish rides relaxed and comfortable (think of the money you'll save on chiropractor bills).
Front or Dual?
There are two main types of suspension mountain bikes, those with front suspension (called Hardtails) and those with front and rear suspension (called Dualies or Fullies). Deciding which to get is the bicycle world's equivalent of whether to buy a PC or Macintosh computer.
Traditionally, front-suspension mountain bikes have been lighter and a tad more efficient, which is why hardtails had pretty much dominated the cross-country racing scene. As weights have dropped and efficiency has improved, even World Cup pros are pulling out dualies for rough courses.
Because front-suspension bikes have only one shock, the frames are simpler than dual-suspension models, which means they're lighter and a little easier to clean and maintain.
Dualies are becoming more popular, however. They offer awesome speed, comfort and control, which is so much fun that most people don't mind the slight weight penalty. Plus, any pedaling efficiency lost in the rear suspension system is more than made up in faster downhill and flat-terrain speeds. You'll also find your rear wheel sticking to technical climbs better than on a hardtail. And, you'll have more energy on long rides because you're taking less of a beating.
Short Or Long Travel?
There are different types of dual-suspension bikes defined by the amount of travel the shocks provide. Short-travel models offer an inch or two of suspension to take the bite off the rough stuff while retaining impressive efficiency. Longer-travel models boast the ability to withstand huge hits. These don't climb as well but they're built more for the descents and fun rides including challenging terrain.
We can show you some of the different types and demonstrate how the suspension systems work. The important thing is to think about how and where you'll be riding the bike to have an idea, which type of suspension and how much suspension you want/need.
It's likely, however, that you'll prefer the additional bump-busting ability of a bike with a suspension fork or one with front and rear shocks. These machines offer many advantages for trail riding. Because the wheels are sprung and can travel up and down, they remain in contact with the ground on even the most technical terrain. This results in more speed, traction and control and safer rides. Plenty of mountain bikers in fact, discover that they can easily ride trails they used to fear simply because they have a good suspension system.
Another wonderful thing about suspension is that it greatly reduces the amount of beating your body takes. If you're suffering from a stiff neck or sore lower back on rides, you'll be amazed at the difference a suspension makes. Jolts from big hits are absorbed by the shocks and never have a chance to slam your body so you finish rides relaxed and comfortable (think of the money you'll save on chiropractor bills).
Front or Dual?
There are two main types of suspension mountain bikes, those with front suspension (called Hardtails) and those with front and rear suspension (called Dualies or Fullies). Deciding which to get is the bicycle world's equivalent of whether to buy a PC or Macintosh computer.
Traditionally, front-suspension mountain bikes have been lighter and a tad more efficient, which is why hardtails had pretty much dominated the cross-country racing scene. As weights have dropped and efficiency has improved, even World Cup pros are pulling out dualies for rough courses.
Because front-suspension bikes have only one shock, the frames are simpler than dual-suspension models, which means they're lighter and a little easier to clean and maintain.
Dualies are becoming more popular, however. They offer awesome speed, comfort and control, which is so much fun that most people don't mind the slight weight penalty. Plus, any pedaling efficiency lost in the rear suspension system is more than made up in faster downhill and flat-terrain speeds. You'll also find your rear wheel sticking to technical climbs better than on a hardtail. And, you'll have more energy on long rides because you're taking less of a beating.
Short Or Long Travel?
There are different types of dual-suspension bikes defined by the amount of travel the shocks provide. Short-travel models offer an inch or two of suspension to take the bite off the rough stuff while retaining impressive efficiency. Longer-travel models boast the ability to withstand huge hits. These don't climb as well but they're built more for the descents and fun rides including challenging terrain.
We can show you some of the different types and demonstrate how the suspension systems work. The important thing is to think about how and where you'll be riding the bike to have an idea, which type of suspension and how much suspension you want/need.
Components
Shimano by no means dominates the equipment scene. Manufacturers commonly substitute brakes, derailleurs and cranksets from makers other than Shimano such as Sachs, Magura, Avid and others.
And, the larger bike manufacturers, like to "brand" their bikes by installing components made in house. So you'll often find pedals and cranks bearing the bike-makers' names.
Rim Or Disc Brakes
In the past few years there have been impressive advances in brake designs and today you'll find amazing stoppers on every bike you buy. There are two types, rim and disc. The former is the traditional bicycle brake that rubs on the rim to slow and stop the bike. These work great, usually weigh less than alternatives and are simple to service and repair.
The rim brake has some weaknesses, however. Because it rubs on the rim, it gradually wears the rim, which may damage it in time. Also, muddy and wet conditions rapidly wear rim-type brake pads and also reduce gripping power.
For these reasons, many off-road bikes today come with disc brakes, which grip a disc attached to the center of the wheel and work similar to car brakes. These aren't as affected by wet and muddy conditions (so you don't lose braking power) and they don't wear the rims.
Shimano by no means dominates the equipment scene. Manufacturers commonly substitute brakes, derailleurs and cranksets from makers other than Shimano such as Sachs, Magura, Avid and others.
And, the larger bike manufacturers, like to "brand" their bikes by installing components made in house. So you'll often find pedals and cranks bearing the bike-makers' names.
Rim Or Disc Brakes
In the past few years there have been impressive advances in brake designs and today you'll find amazing stoppers on every bike you buy. There are two types, rim and disc. The former is the traditional bicycle brake that rubs on the rim to slow and stop the bike. These work great, usually weigh less than alternatives and are simple to service and repair.
The rim brake has some weaknesses, however. Because it rubs on the rim, it gradually wears the rim, which may damage it in time. Also, muddy and wet conditions rapidly wear rim-type brake pads and also reduce gripping power.
For these reasons, many off-road bikes today come with disc brakes, which grip a disc attached to the center of the wheel and work similar to car brakes. These aren't as affected by wet and muddy conditions (so you don't lose braking power) and they don't wear the rims.
Looking to put a little excitement into your life? Want to venture off road to escape traffic and congestion? Attracted by friends' tales of sweet singletrack and jaw-dropping overlooks? You've got the mountain-bike bug. Good for you. Now's a great time to be shopping and we've got a showroom full of sweet fat-tire flyers that'll satisfy all your dirt dreams.
