Shopping for a Mountain Bike

At Two Knobby Tires, our named was inspired by our passion for mountain biking. We recommend buying a mountain bike from your local bike shop so that you can test ride it and be properly fitted. A bike fitting can include adjustments to clipless pedals and shoes, modifications for handlebar height and stem length, vertical and horizontal positioning of seat, and choice of frame (e.g., size). In addition, a local bike shop can support a maintenance schedule that supports your riding style. Some key factors to keep in mind when shopping for a mountain bike are frame materials, bike weight, and component quality and durability.

Mountain bikes are well-liked because of their versatility. Specifically, they have tough, wide tires and an upright riding position that make them easy to ride on lots of different terrains. Further, they are constructed to handle rough terrain such as logs, rocks, high grass, sand, mud, snow, and ice. What's more, they perform well on flat slopes and make steep slopes possible to conquer. Womens mountain bikes are designed to provide comfort by configuring the frame for longer legs and a shorter torso. Youth mountain bikes have 24 inch wheels whereas adult mountain bikes have 26 inch wheels. Hardtails (i.e., front suspension only) are more economical than full suspension bikes and can provide a smooth ride on rough terrain. Full suspension bikes require premium components and a more complex frame so it is advocated to pay considerably more for a full suspension bicycle than you would for a hardtail. Moreover, rear suspension can be installed in a various ways so maintenance and durability need to be examined. A hardtail with 29 inch wheels is a cheaper, simpler, and equivalent performing alternative to full suspension because a larger wheel base absorbs bumpy terrain without giving up power on climbs. Finally, seat post suspension (i.e., saddle suspension) is the most straightforward to service of all rear suspension alternatives.

Single speed mountain bikes are easy to maintain because they do not have gear shifters, deraillers, or a large set of cogs that can break down and require maintanence or replacement. As as result of having less components, single speeds are lighter weight and more durable. Specifically, they are more durable because you do not have to worry about having your chain pop off because of derailer misalignment or having your rear derailer slammed into a rock. On the other hand, the simpleness of a single speed mountain bike can make it difficult or near impossible to ride up particularly steep slopes whereas a multi-speed bike's granny chain ring can make almost any steep slope possible.

Mountain bike frames - The primary feature to examine in selecting a mountain bike is its frame material: aluminum, steel, carbon, or titanium. Aluminum frames are most popular because they are rigid, rust-free, lightweight but, unfortunately, they are not as long lasting as steel, titanium, or carbon fiber. Steel frames are durable and heavy but vulnerable to rust. Carbon fiber is usually employed for high-end, custom designed frames. Titanium frames are the best frames on the market but are also the most costly.

Mountain bike helmets are designed for use on rugged trails and include visors for rain shielding, debris deflection, and sun protection. Further, they are usually reinforced in crucial areas to protect your head during a fall. What's more, mountain bike helmets are suitable for commuters and casual road riders too. Oversized mountain bike helmets provide protection and comfort to riders with larger heads.

Clipless pedals are recommended in place of standard pedals and, especially, instead of toe clips. Toe clips can be difficult to exit from during a fall because twisting your feet can cause feet to get stuck in them. On the other hand, clipless pedals can be safer because twisting your feet releases your feet from the pedals. What's more, clipless pedals lock feet into the pedals which makes it easier to ride in wet conditions, climb steep slopes, and maintain balance over rocky terrain.