How to Choose a Mountain Bike: Buyer's Guide & Bike Types

Since the introduction of mass-produced mountain bikes back in 1980s, mountain biking has seen a lot of progress. The mountain bikes of today are amazing machines, built for fun and confidence on all types of trails. This is possible thanks to new technologies, but it can also make choosing a mountain bike difficult. It's essential to be familiar with the basics of mountain biking design. You should also be honest about your riding style and ability. Also, you need to know the types of trails that you will be using the most. There are many other factors you need to consider once you have decided on the right type of mountain bike. These include price and the components that make it up. This guide will help you find the perfect mountain bike for you.

How to choose a mountain bike

1. Select the mountain bike that suits you best.

2. Compare specifications and stats between models.

3. Find the right size for you.

4. Choose the build kit and parts that best suit your needs and budget.

5. Try out some bikes. You can test out the models you are interested in.

6. Find the mountain bike that suits your riding style and budget.

It looks easy when you list it like this. However, choosing the best mountain bikes can be daunting. First, let us assure you that there are many great mountain bikes available these days. Differences can often be marginal so keep your eyes on the essentials. Remember the end goal: having fun on the trails. Don't worry about the details, just go riding!

Different types of mountain bikes

What's the deal? There are so many mountain bike styles out there. There are many terms that manufacturers use to describe their bikes. However, there are four basic types: Cross Country, Trail, All Mountain (Enduro), Downhill (DH).

Mountain Bikes for Cross Country (XC).

Cross-country mountain bikes are made for riders who value pedaling performance above all else. These bikes are lung-busting, uphill-crushing machines that were designed for endurance and efficiency. Cross country bikes have a geometry that is very similar to road bikes. Cross country bikes are lighter and more efficient than road bikes. However, they sacrifice downhill performance in favor of efficiency and light weight. Cross-country mountain bikes are ideal for those who are willing to pedal long distances and are more interested in climbing than descending.

• Modern XC bikes tend to have the largest mountain bike wheels at 29 inches. This rim diameter is identical to the 700c roadbike size.

• Ultra-lightweight (less than 24 lbs. In some cases, mountain bikes with 4.7 inches/120mm travel or less make them the lightest you will see.

• In some cases, hardtails (front suspension only), can be preferred in this category.

• Riders are able to climb more efficiently with longer chainstays and wheelbases.

• These bikes' tires are more likely to be lighter, more efficient, and have a faster rolling resistance than traction, control, or durability.

Trail Mountain Bikes

This is the category most people associate with when they think of "mountain bikes". Trail bikes are mountain biking's Swiss army knife. They can be used to climb and descend. Trail bikes have more suspension and gravity-oriented components, such as chunkier tires that provide better traction and larger brake rotors. They also have a more relaxed geometry than their XC brethren. This makes them more versatile on all terrain. Are you able to see yourself riding all-day backcountry epic rides, as well as cruising around town and the local trails? Do you prefer to measure your rides in smiles and grins, rather than in seconds? A trail bike is the best choice if you enjoy mountain biking uphill as well as downhill, and you are looking for the occasional jump or drop.

• Trail bikes can be purchased with either 27.5" or 29, inch wheels. The travel of suspension can range from 4.7 inches/120mm to 6 inches/150mm (front and back).

• Geometries for trail bikes are defined by their "neutral" head angles (66deg and 68deg), but can be modified to suit different riding styles.

• Trail bikes have tires that balance durability, traction, and efficiency.

All Mountain and Enduro Mountain Bikes

This category could be called the "bulky cousin" of the trail bike. All-mountain bikes make up the core of "Enduro," a race format where climbing is mandatory, but only the downhill sections can be scored and timed. If you are willing to pedal up and earn your ride, but really want the downhill with technical terrain or airtime, an all-mountain mountain bike or enduro mountain biking is the best choice. An all-mountain bike is also suitable for those who want to do some laps at a bike park, or on shuttle-access terrain.

• Enduro mountain bikes can be ordered with either 27.5" or 29, inch wheels or mixed "mullet", with 29 inches in the front and 29 inches in the back.

• All-mountain bikes have slightly greater suspension travel than trail bikes. They range from 5.5"/140mm up to 6.7”/180mm.

• Geometry favors climbing over descending. For steep climbs, head angles between 65 and 67 degrees can be tricky.

• Modern all-mountain/enduro geometry is defined by a long wheelbase, reach, low bottom bracket, and slack angle.

• All mountain bikes have aggressive knobs that allow for cornering and traction. This is because gravity assists is the most important part of the ride.

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Mountain Bikes for Downhill & Freeride

Downhill bikes can be used for speed, big drops and jumps, as well as steep terrain. These bikes are designed for speed, steep terrain, and big jumps. These bikes are not designed to travel in any other direction than down. A downhill bike is the best choice if you don't want to pedal uphill.

• Burly frames with 6.7"/170mm to 10"/250mm+ suspension travel in rear and 7”/180mm to 8”/200mm front with dual-crown Forks that look like something you might find on a motorcycle.

• These bikes are very slack (less that 65deg head angle) with a low center of gravity (bottom bracket). This allows for greater confidence when riding steep terrain or aggressive brown-pow roosting corners.

• Downhill bikes have tires that are designed for traction, durability and traction. They use 2-ply (think twice-thick) casings to provide traction and durability.

Mountain Bike Geometry & Specs

After you have found the right place and decided on the mountain bike type you want, what can you do to narrow down the choices between these bikes? While brand and price are important, it is also worth considering specs and geometry. This guide to mountain biking geometry provides a detailed breakdown of all these measurements. It is important to remember that specs such as reach, head tube angle and length of chainstays all have an impact on the bike's fit and how it rides. You don't have to learn all this information. Just write down some notes and hit the trails. It is best to actually ride a bike in order to find out what works for your needs.

Mountain Bike Sizing

A complete guide to mountain bike sizing is available. But here's the summary: a properly fitted bike is crucial for having fun on the trails. You can start by creating a size chart and then work your way up. Sizes may vary from one brand to the next. Factors like riding style, body dimensions (long legs, short torso, etc. Sizing decisions are influenced by your ability level, riding style, and body dimensions. All of these are important to keep in mind when choosing a mountain bike.

Mountain Bike Build Kits and Components, Pricing

Mountain bikes are complex machines. They're made of many smaller parts, or components. These components have a significant impact on your bike's performance and also influence the cost of your bike. These components are usually included in a "build set" unless you are building your own bike. A build kit for a particular model bike will often have a different price and performance level.

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Mountain Bike Frame Material

When looking at the specs and build of a mountain bike, the first thing you should consider is the material of the frame. This is often the starting point for riders who are looking to purchase a new bike. The most common mountain bike frame material is aluminum alloy or carbon fiber. However, other materials such as steel and titanium are more rare. Different materials offer different ride characteristics and weights.

Carbon vs Aluminum Mountain Bikes

Which frame material is better? It's complicated. Each has its own tradeoffs. Carbon fiber is stronger and lighter than aluminum, but it's also more expensive and fragile. Aluminum is more expensive and lasts longer, but it's heavier. Carbon fiber is more rigid and damper than aluminum, but it offers a better ride quality. It is up to you to decide which of the above factors are most important.

Mountain Bike Components

Each component of the bike from its wheels to its suspension, builds up from the frame. You will gain more experience and learn about these components as you ride. Mountain bikers may prefer a brand's suspension or brakes over others. You will generally find lighter parts and better adjustability as the bike's price increases. The price of the parts you choose and how much you can afford them will determine which kit is right for you.