ountain Bikes Buyers Guide

Mountain bikes have strong frames, powerful brakes, multiple gears and wide tires � making them perfect for riding on any terrain. Suspension is now becoming more popular because they increase comfort and allow you to move faster over the given terrain. Mountain bikes at the lower end of the price range, called All Terrain Bikes or Urban Mountain Bikes, are not as capable as true mountain bikes when it comes to off road riding. They are often designed for recreational cycling, much the same as a Hybrid. The differences between trail bikes and real mountain bikes are that although they are styled alike, they�re not equally rugged and tough.

Brands of Mountain Bikes

There are several brands of mountain bikes to choose from. When shopping for a mountain bike, it may serve you well to take a look at the various brands available.

� Kona

� Scott

� Marin

� Giant

� Orange

� Rocky Mountain

� Cove Bikes

� Dawes

� Diamondback

� Raleigh

�

Types of Mountain Bikes

There are many different types of Mountain Bikes on the market. Many are lightweight and many are built more ruggedly and are capable of handling any type of terrain. They basically come in various sizes and have varied features as well such as rear suspension and precision riding.

�XC (Cross Country) - Most Mountain Bikes fit into this category. Lightweight bikes that can easily be ridden over the toughest terrain, with uphill or downhill. Can be used for riding on the road or commuting as well.

Downhill � If you are a serious mountain biker and seeking a thrill, then this is the type of bike for you. You�ll find features on downhill bikes such as rear suspension, strong components, and disc brakes.

Trails � Classified as the �king� of precision riding in the mountain bike world, riding trail bikes requires a lot of skill. This is not a bike for the faint of heart. This is a downhill bike that is lightweight but strong and one that many riders custom build themselves rather than buy them off the shelf. Anyone riding trails are dedicated and usually ride daily.

Jump/Slalom � Designed to be very strong, jump/slalom bikes are basically used for jumping, street riding and slalom racing. Their features include front suspension and very strong dedicated components. Popular with manufacturers, they are offered within their ranges.

�Pros and Cons of Mountain Bikes

Here is a short comparison of various types of mountain bikes.

Pros	Cons
� Most mountain bikes are very versatile. They can be used for basically any type of riding from commuting to traveling across the most rugged terrain. � Within the cycling world, the biggest market is in mountain bikes.� � An exceptional value for the money. � Proper mountain bikes which are lightweight and maneuverable.	� They require modifications that add cost to the original purchase price. � Cheap Mountain Bikes can often disillusion people. � Cheap bikes are heavy, unresponsive and generally nasty to ride.

Features

� Most have 26� wheels, 21 - 27 gears and are built rugged.

� Have stronger components and frames, intended for rougher, off-road riding in rugged terrain, over rocks and logs, but are often used on-road.

� Have fat, knobby tires for more traction and �cushion,� flatter-profile handlebars for a more leaned-over seating position, very low gears for easier hill climbing.

� Some have suspension systems for greater shock absorption.

� Two chain rings (18 speeds) or three chain rings (27 speeds).

� Rim brakes also known as V brakes, are light and easy to adjust. Costlier disc brakes shine in gunk mud and water.

� Clip less pedals fit cleated cycling shoes. They increase stroke efficiency and release with a gentle twist.

Frame Material

Each frame material has merit:

� Aluminum is ubiquitous, stiff, and light

� Steel is smooth-riding and classic

� Titanium and carbon fiber are durable and light but pricey

Components

Shimano dominates the components market. Their hierarchy for road bikes, from basic to better is:

Sora,

Tiagra,

105,

Ultegra,

Dura-Ace.

In the dirt, the range is:

Altus,

Alivio,

Deore,

LX,

XT,

XTR.

Note: Campagnolo parts work equally well.

Fit

Good fit is critical. Your leg should be slightly bent while resting on a pedal, in the six o'clock position. Off-roaders need at least three inches of clearance when straddling the top tube. Your reach to the bars should be comfortable. Adjust handlebars so your wrists aren't positioned awkwardly and the squeezing is easy. Most mountain-bike bars come wide; have your shop cut them to fit comfortably.

What to Look For

� A good frame preferably aluminum

� Reliable components such as a mix of low- and high-end Shimano components

� Answer Axel fork

� A quality front shock absorber

� Suspension that uses oil damping to adjust shock action

� Hydraulic disc brakes if possible

� Air springs (pricey) or coil-and-rubber spring combos (simpler).

� The ability to upgrade or replace any component

Price

Prices for mountain bikes are at an all time low at the moment. There is a huge range available with prices from �60 to �4000. You should really expect to pay no less than �250-�300 for a bike, which is worth buying if you want to do any kind of off-road riding.

Extras

If you are thinking of going mountain biking soon, you'll need some extras:

Helmet

Shoes

Gloves

Shorts

Jersey

Pump

Eyewear�clear or yellow lenses