Everything You Need To Know About Mountain Bikes
Do you love the outdoors? Do you long for adventure? Are you fascinated by mountain biking but don’t know the first thing about bikes? You have come to the right place. Here you will find the answers the all the questions you might have about mountain bikes.
Mountain bikes: what are they?
Mountain bikes are special bikes designed for rougher rides. They are heavier and sturdier than road bikes. They are most suitable for riders whose paths run through mountains, woods, gravel roads, or other uneven terrains. Mountain bikes are capable of moving over a variety of rough and unconventional surfaces and optimize the smoothness of the ride. They can withstand the damages a rough haul may cause and provide maximum functionality and safety to the rider.
The need for mountain bikes
Riding through woods or mud on a basic bike would not only be challenging but also extremely unsafe. For more adventurous riders, mountain bikes are an absolute must-have. Not only can these bikes take on a lot of damage, but they can also provide cushioning for the rider as the bike body takes most of the hits. They also allow more control so you can navigate your course with ease. Mountain bikes minimize the level of hazard and are perfect for off the road rides.
Differences between a mountain bike and a road bike
Roads are smooth and often predictable. Hence, road bikes are modified to be lighter and faster as they travel without many bumps. The wheels are designed to reduce friction. The riding posture diverts more power to the leg movement. All these elements build up to a road bike’s agility.
On the other hand, mountain bikes are heavier and much more durable. They have flat handlebars, and the wheels are smaller (around 26 to 29 inches) to provide more resistance and withstand bumps from rocks and gravel. The knobby tires are also wide and provide excellent traction while riding through mud. The frame of mountain bikes is slightly bulkier, which enables it to take hits and endure rough rides. Mountain bikes are slower than road bikes and require more effort and skill.
Types of mountain bikes
There may be different names used for these divisions, but depending on their use and geometry, mountain bikes are further categorized into the following primary subtypes.
Cross Country (XC) Bikes: In terms of structure, Cross Country bikes are the closest to road bikes. They are lighter and are great for longer routes. Cross Country bikes are designed for longer rides where the main focus is pedaling and climbing. They are not as functional when it comes to downwards descent or increased control.
Trail Full-Suspension or Trail Bikes: Trail bikes find the right balance between climbing and descending efficiency. The components are suitable for both uphill and downhill paths. Elements like wider wheels and bigger brake rotors guarantee durability and traction. If you want a classic mountain bike that can move over a variety of different surfaces, Trail bikes are the way to go.
All Mountain or Enduro Mountain Bikes: All Mountain Bikes are fundamentally designed for Enduro races, where the time for going downhill is recorded, while climbs are untimed yet obligatory. These bikes possess elements that provide excellent control while descending, especially on steep paths; however, riding them requires a certain level of skill.
Downhill Mountain Bikes: True to their name, these bikes are intended to provide optimum efficiency while going downhill. They are perfect for slopes, big jumps, drops, and steep paths. They are designed for maximum traction. But if you are on an uphill path, then these bikes won’t do. Downhill Mountain Bikes have little to none climbing capacity, so keep that in mind if you are looking to go up.
Choosing the right bike for you
There are multiple factors you need to take into consideration while picking a bike. You have to keep in mind the technicalities of your target terrain, your specific needs, and your budget. You don’t want to choose a downhill bike for races or something equally incompatible. Once you have settled on what kind of bike you want, you have to decide on the specifics. Pay special attention to the material of the frame and the wheel size. You also need to pick the right quality and quantity of suspension. Selecting the right size for you is critical. Try out manufacturers with good reviews and a satisfied customer base. You can also demo the top few bikes on your list before making a final decision.
Are mountain bikes a good investment?
Mountain bikes are usually affordable. But sometimes higher quality bikes and upgrades can seem expensive. However, in the long run, you get the most out of your money with these bikes as they are incredibly durable and will last you a long time.
How to take care of your bike
Your bike needs regular maintenance to stay in its top-notch state. Some standard things you should do are as follows:
. Thoroughly clean your bike
. Add lubricant to the chain
. Check what condition the brakes and the tires are in
.Check your bolts and screws
Remember to get your bike serviced annually to take care of the more complicated parts. A professional might give your bike a deep clean, service the forks, fix the brakes, or anything else that your bike needs.
Equipment and Gear
There is some necessary riding gear that you should carry with you during all your rides. This includes a helmet, riding gloves, protective glasses, and a water bottle. Having a basic multi-tool with you might also come in handy and save you a lot of trouble.
Conclusion
It does not matter if you enjoy biking as a hobby, a passion, or just a fun pastime. It is an exciting sport. It is not only great for your health but also your heart as it allows you to be your adventurous self and be closer to nature. Now that you have all this knowledge with you, go pick up a Mountain bike and get started!
