Learn How To Buy A Mountain Bike

A new MTB is an investment so determining your riding goals is the first step to choosing the right wheels for you. With many riding styles out there, there are a multitude of bikes to match your MTB goals.
Buy the best MTB bike you can afford. If you see yourself as a long-term mountain biker, spending as much as you can is usually best. For example, buying a bike with a mid-level component group like Shimano’s XT will outperform its lower LX class.
If you buy a MTB with a lower level component group now and decide to upgrade later, it will cost you more in the future. MTB manufactures receive volume discounts on components and pass those savings onto consumers. Plus, the components are already installed so there is no installation cost or you having to do it yourself.
Go online or buy from your local MTB shop? The primary advantages of purchasing online are a lower price tag and greater selection. However, bike fit is one of the most important things to consider when purchasing an MTB. With different size torsos and legs, buying a mountain bike that is fitted to your body will improved your comfort level and power distribution to the pedals.
Purchasing from your local mountain bike shop may cost you a bit more, but they are usually the local experts when fitting a bike to your physical frame. Trying to fit yourself with a bike fit expert over the phone or with online guides can only take you so far. A disadvantage with purchasing at your local MTB shop is selection. Bike stores typically are dealers that sale certain MTB brands so visiting a few bike shops in your area may be best to find that mountain bike that is right for you.
Paying your local mountain bike shop for a good bike fit then ordering the MTB you want online with your physical measurements is another idea. Once you receive your MTB, you can have you local mountain bike shop perfect your bike fit. However, most MTB shops will include a bike fit if you purchase from them. Weigh the best option based on total price, the MTB you want, bike fit and your time constraints.
Check out the forums and ask your fellow MTB riders. There is nothing like getting real world reviews of the MTB you’re thinking about from mountain bikers who are riding the MTB model you’re considering. With knowledge on the strengths and weakness of the MTB model, they are a great source of help.
Below are five universal MTB styles to consider:
1. All-Mountain Bikes – If trails and climbing mountains is your thing, but also steep declines, you may want to consider an all-mountain bike. The geometry provides excellent stability in rough, steep situations as compared with the typical trail bike.
With four to six inches of suspension, the all-mountain MTB provides good trail riding, plus allows you to take-on light stunt work too. If the trails, freeriding and downhill riding interest you, an all-mountain bike may be the best MTB for you.
2. Cross-Country Race Bikes – If off-road speed is in your dreams, then a XC MTB may be for you. With a steep angle geometry, and a suspension that ranges between three to four inches of travel, a XC MTB handles well, and are fast on moderate trails.
3. Cross-Country Trail Bikes – these MTB bikes are it if you are looking for an all around mountain bike. With three to five inches of suspension travel, these MTB bikes provide good comfort, and climb with maximum efficiency. If you’re a mountain bike rider who likes challenging terrain, this MTB may be for you.
4. Downhill Race Bikes – if you’re a downhiller looking for speed, this may be the mountain bike for you. With six inches plus suspension travel and a strong, well built frame, these MTB bikes can take it down the mountain. However, if you love to climb trails, the added weight may make your climb a bit tougher.
5. Hardtail Bikes – If you like light trails or a fast MTB, a hardtail may be a good choice for you if maximum comfort is not at the top of your list. As hardtails have front-only suspension, they have less pedal bob and increased pedal stroke efficiency when compared to dual suspension MTB bikes.
When choosing a MTB, consider that each type has its strengths and weaknesses on the trail. Remember, when you have more suspension and a sturdier frame, you have more weight and tougher hill climbs ahead of you, but easier downhill’s.
Figuring out which MTB riding style is your favorite then working back from there to other styles may be a good approach to take when choosing your new mountain bike.
Keith Rejino is a sports photographer for Dreamscape Images, a personal trainer, and mountain biker. His MTB Bike website provides MTB race coverage, and training and nutrition tips for the mountain biker. For more information on how to Buy Mountain Bike, check out Dreamscape Images MTB site.
