How to Choose a Mountian Bike

Whether you've been hitting the trails for years or are choosing the road less traveled for the first time, choosing the right mountain bike is crucial. Like any sport, mountain biking requires dedication and determination, along with a no-fear attitude. However, with the wrong bike, you'll be competing against yourself as well as against the mountain.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine your spending range. Before you even begin looking at the technicalities, look at the price tag first. If you know you can only afford a basic bike, there's no reason to look at deluxe shocks or titanium frames.

2. Determine your size. Mountain bikes come in a variety of sizes, depending on your height and reach. If the bike is too small or too big, you will not be able to control it properly.

3. Choose your suspension. There are a variety of suspensions available depending on how you will ride your mountain bike. Some are designed for jumps, while others are designed for all-day events.

4. Choose your speeds. Mountain bikes, like road bikes, have gears. The faster, harder and higher you plan on riding your bike, the more speeds you will want.

5. Choose your brakes. Rim brakes are the most popular brakes for mountain bikes. They are easy to repair, but wear out quickly. Disc brakes, while harder to repair, last longer.

6. Choose your handlebars. There are a few different shapes of handlebars available for mountain bikes. The angle of the handlebars affects whether you can sit up straight or if you'll need to lean forward.

7. Choose your pedals. Some mountain bike pedals have clips, while others have straps. The type of pedals determines the kinds of shoes you can wear.

Tips & Warnings

• Always bike at your level of expertise. Many of the options available for mountain bikes will not affect a beginner. A basic, factory-assembled mountain bike will be perfect for many riders. Clip-on pedals, dual shocks and disc brakes are costly additions: if you're just learning the sport, they'll probably do more harm than good.
• <br>Always try your mountain bike first. If you don't know exactly what you want or need, visit a bike shop and talk to an expert. Give a few bikes a ride around the parking lot, and choose the one that feels the best and that you can control the easiest.
• Don't just buy the most expensive bike available. The best bike for you may not be the top-of-the-line, brand-new release.

Who Can Help:

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!