5 Things to Consider while Buying a Mountain Bike (Infograph)

If you're buying a mountain bike for the first time or buying a second one after years, you're likely to find yourself puzzled with the variety and specs of the mountain bikes manufactured today. The wide array of options might leave a bit confused and leave you wanting to purchase almost every other model. But then again, even if you go with one that wins your heart with its visual aesthetics and apparent benefits, you might not find one that's best for you.

For that, you'll need to consider a few essential aspects of mountain bikes and determine your needs for sure. It will assist you in shortlisting the best bikes from the plethora of options and select the one that best meets your needs. So, let's have a look.

Buying Guide Infograph

Your Riding Style

Perhaps, the very first aspect to consider when buying a mountain bike is your riding style. Each riding style demands a specific type of bike. Currently, there are five types of mountain bikes available in the market. These include:

• Trail bikes

• Downhill (DH)

• Enduro/All Mountain

• Cross Country (XC)

• Fat bikes

Amongst these, trail bikes happen to be the most popular. These are mid-range options that are often lightweight and are super-comfortable. They perform well on almost all sorts of trails. However, they may not be able to handle extremes.

For example, it may not give you the best of suspensions requires for harder trails with many jumps like an Enduro bike would. With that said, All Mountain or Enduro bikes are good for a variety of trails and long distances, while Downhills bikes are great for steep surfaces. Contrary to that, the Cross Country bikes are pedaling powerhouses, suited best for forest paths and paved roads.

Fat bikes are the ones you could use in any terrain in any season. These can even handle deep snow and sand. But such versatility and usability come at a great price too.

So, opt for one that suits your riding style and meets the needs of your common biking area.

Frame Size

While it is easier to select the frame size on a shop, you can not sit and test the mountain bike when buying online. Choosing the right frame size will offer you better command over the bike and a comfortable riding position. Note, select the frame size in consideration of your height.

• 4’11” to 5’3” = 13-15 inches

• 5’3” to 5’7” = 15-17 inches

• 5’7” to 5’11” = 17-19 inches

• 6” to 6’2” = 19-21 inches

• 6’2” above = 21+ inches

Wheel Size

There is a diversity of wheel sizes available in the market. And, each of these wheel sizes offers different rolling resistance, acceleration, and comfort. If you want to improve your mountain biking performance, then dedicate some time to wheel size selection.

Fundamentally, there are three wheel sizes used by mountain bikers of all levels. These include:

26-inches

The 26-inches wheel is the smallest, lightest, and most agile option present. Its structure offers increased acceleration and responsiveness. However, it also means difficult to maintain stability. Usually, advanced mountain bikers who prefer shorter and steeper climbs select 26-inches wheels.

27.5-inches

Also called as 650B, the 27.5-inches provide the perfect balance between maneuverability and durability. They are fluent, agile, and easy-to-handle.

29-inches

The 29-inches are the biggest and most stable of all wheel sizes. Due to the large size, the 29ers do not fall as much as the smaller variants. However, they can bend and be a little harder to handle.

Build Quality & Design

While the mountain bike design is a matter of preference, you can be vigilant about the build. Usually, two types of mountain bikes are available; one made from aluminum alloy and the other from carbon fiber. Aluminum is a highly-durable and cheaper option. Meanwhile, carbon fiber is a lightweight alternative.

Brand & Price

Lastly, you must always research about the mountain bike brand before purchase. Some reputable brand names include Yeti Cycles, Diamondback, Trek Bikes, and Giant Cycles. In case you want to explore a new brand, then verify authenticity by finding a review.

Sometimes, people reveal a lot of brand quality and service in a review without even realizing it. You just need to be a critical reader!

Final Verdict

Besides, evaluate your requirements and calculate finances. There’s no point in spending hours of research about mountain bikes that do not meet your budget. Be a wise buyer, good luck!