Mountain biking is a fantastic way to let loose and enjoy the outdoors. It gives you the chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking beauty and rejuvenate your mind. While the mountain bikes are particularly uncomplicated when compared to road bikes, they do offer a number of features that make them ideal for the offroad. For a mountain bike to take on the rigors of the outdoors while being able to handle road traffic conditions seamlessly, it must have key features that make it a capable ride.

In this blog, we will share some essential things that you should remember while buying a mountain bike. 

 

1. Multiple Size Options

One of the most crucial considerations before buying a bike is its size. Purchasing a bike, whether online or offline, is similar to buying clothes. So, there is no one “right” size that fits all.

Height is a crucial factor when buying a bike. Bicycle sizes generally vary in small, medium, large, and extra-large. For 5'0 to 5′ 5" cyclists, a small-size bike is perfect. MTBs in the medium-size range are ideal for riders between 5'6″ and 5'10".

Extra-large sizes are suggested for riders over 6'2″, while bigger bikes are best for 5'11" to 6'2″ riders. It's vital to choose the right bike to have a comfortable mountain ride.

 

2. Bike Suspensions

● Hardtail Bikes - Hardtail bikes have front suspension forks and no rear suspension. They're common as entry-level commuters, XC, and trail rides and also as high-end, race-specific XC machines.

They come with an affordable price that attracts customers to make their first choice. Hardtail bikes can become bumpy over rough ground, and they won't soak up undulations the way a full-suspension model can. But some adventurous people say this is a good thing because dual suspension can make riding offroad difficult. These bikes are also cheaper to maintain and service.

● Full Suspension Bikes - Mountain bikes come with front and rear suspension, making them excellent choices for beginners who want to ride off-road.

Full-suspension bikes are more expensive than hardtail bikes, but they're a good investment in comfort, confidence, and control. Their dual suspension makes it easier to ride over anything remotely technical, while the rear suspension improves traction by making the back wheel stay on the ground.

 

3. MTB Wheel Size

Mountain bikes generally have three-wheel sizes, with traditional 26-inch wheels being phased out in favor of 27.5-inch tires and the increasingly popular 29ers.

The most widely used wheel size is 26″. Comparatively, 27.5″ works well with a hardtail or full suspension cycle, while 29″ is the best option for long-distance riding.

 

4. Frame Material

Carbon, alloy, and steel are the main options for frame material. A high-end carbon frame is the ultimate choice due to its light and responsive nature. While alloy is cheaper and more durable, it is heavier and slightly less comfortable to ride.

On the other hand, steel is hard and a less common frame material. It offers an excellent ride quality but is heavy. When it comes to weight, it really depends on what's right for you. The key is finding the perfect size and fit, along with the right components, which generally depends on the ride that you have planned. It's all about making sure your bike fits your needs and preferences to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

 

5. Brakes

The brakes on the bikes are one of the most essential safety features. MTB bikes, however, increase the importance of good brakes. Riding on gravel roads and challenging routes demands good brakes with minimal room for error.

You have the option of both rubber and disc brakes. Disc brakes provide excellent stopping power. Additionally, disc brakes feature self-adjustment for brake pad wear and tear, ensuring consistent performance during the ride.

 

In a Nutshell

Buying a mountain bike is not easy. You must consider various aspects to make your biking experience enjoyable. Some important things to consider are bike types, wheel sizes, suspension, and brakes. Make sure to consider all these aspects, and you’ll be well on your way in making the right decision.

To get started, explore our collection of bikes and electric bikes, then choose the ideal MTB for your next adventurous ride!