The best way to learn about mountain bikes is to take a test drive and understand the riding experience. Comfort, stability, and durability are the three factors that should be considered while buying a mountain bike.
While you can find a lot of information on the internet about different features made available on this superb vehicle, you might often fail to make sense out of it.
To help make your decision even easier, we’ve rounded up a few basic tips to think about before finalizing your purchase.
Price
Price is one of the essential factors when shopping for just about anything. You should explore different options based on the price range and look for models within your budget limit to ensure you’re getting the best deals.
Examine each model based on its features and determine if it's worth the price. Set aside some money for warranty and maintenance charges that might come up in the future. Remember, a high price doesn't necessarily mean that you are buying a good product.
Durability
The durability of a specific bike can be judged by looking at the components used in making it. An aluminum frame is generally more durable than carbon fiber or steel. However, carbon fiber is typically lighter than other frame types.
When buying a mountain bike, you should look for models made with aluminum frames since they are typically more durable and sturdy.
The wheel size also contributes to the durability of the bike. Larger wheels can tackle rough road conditions much more successfully than smaller ones because of the higher volume of air inside.
Warranty & Service Plans
Examine any warranty provided by the manufacturer carefully. Try to look for models that come with a standard manufacturer's warranty or those that offer replacement services for all bike components.
Whilst it is advised that you shouldn’t make a decision solely based on the length of time the warranty lasts, it is an essential factor to consider.
Comfort
It is imperative to check the comfort level offered by different models in different price ranges before finalizing your purchase.
Low-quality suspension at the front and rear wheels often lead to back pain, especially when riding over rough surfaces. This can be solved by buying a high-end model that comes with an upgraded suspension system.
Brakes & Gears
Brakes and gears play a crucial role in maintaining control while riding across rough surfaces. You should ensure that the model you choose is equipped with solid disc brakes and 27 speeds options at the rear wheel.
Make sure that the braking system offers good stopping power to prevent accidents. It is also essential to check the gear ratios and ensure that they correspond to your riding ability.
A single-speed model will be a good choice for a first-time rider, as it offers you a stable ride without having to deal with complicated gears.
Weight
The weight of a bike does matter as it may help or hinder your ability to control the bike’s steering. Take a test drive and feel how easy maneuvering the bike around corners is, especially when going downhill.
If you buy a high-end model, you can also opt for a lightweight frame to enhance your riding experience.
The weight of the mountain bikes also affects the performance on off-road surfaces. The more weight the bike has, the higher is its rolling resistance.
This means that it will take more energy to maintain your speed and control the bike over bumpy surfaces.
Lightweight models offer you more control and stability during rides on rough surfaces.
Suspension System
Suspension systems play an important role in ensuring your safety while riding your mountain bike in rough terrain.
While the front suspension is mostly present in the entry-level models, the rear suspension is found on most mountain bikes made by high-end manufacturers.
The suspension system can be easily judged by looking at the number of shocks attached to the bike, mainly depending on the price range.
More complicated systems like full-suspension are more effective but complex. Beginner riders should go for single or double suspensions until they have better riding skills.
Riding Style
The riding style of a mountain biker can affect the type and price range of the model they choose to purchase. For instance, cross-country riders usually go with hardtail models that offer an excellent balance between performance and stability.
While most enduro cyclists like to buy full-suspension models for their high performance, free-riders choose to use hardtail models that are more affordable and lightweight.
Choosing the appropriate model can be tricky if you are not sure about your riding style. To better understand what suits your needs, you should visit bike shops in your area or consult with an expert before making a final decision.
There are plenty of mountain bikes available to choose from in the market, but it is essential to make a well-informed decision before purchasing one.
Among all the factors mentioned above, you should always consider your riding style and skill level while purchasing so that you can find the right one to suit your needs.
