When was the last time you went out on your bike? Where did you go? Did you stay in town or did you head out into the wilderness? Maybe you rode through the park or in the mountains? No matter where you went you probably wanted a bike that was going to make it easier and a lot more fun, right? I know I definitely prefer having a bike that can get the job done and that’s why the best mountain bikes are such a great option. With a city bike, you’re pretty much stuck on more gentle terrain, but mountain bikes can get you anywhere.
For anyone who likes to get out there and really enjoy the great outdoors on a bike, you can’t go wrong with mountain bikes. They get you just about anywhere, they’re durable and they’re definitely great-looking options too. With any of these bikes, you’re going to find something that you can enjoy and something that will make you actually want to get outside and ride again.
Best Mountain Bikes 2019
Okay, so you want to find the best mountain bikes and you’re not even sure where to start, right? Trust me, I know exactly how you feel. Walking into a store to look for one of these bikes can feel like you’re being tossed to the wolves. But if you’re interested in getting one of these bikes you have to know where to start, right? Let’s see what’s out there and I’ll show you my top ten.
ITEMS | WEIGHT | WHEEL | RATING | PRICE |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. Schwinn Traxion | 49lb | 29" | 6/10 | |
2. Schwinn Protocol | 51lb | 26" | 6/10 | |
3. New Diamondback | 35lb | 24" | 8/10 | |
4. Cyrusher FR100 | 41lb | 26" | 7/10 | |
5. BEIOU Carbon | 23.59lb | 29" | 9/10 | |
6. Vilano MB | 41lb | 26" | 7/10 | |
7. Electric MB | 48.5lb | 26" | 6/10 | |
8. Montague Paratrooper | 41.1lb | 26" | 7/10 | |
9. BEIOU Carbon Fiber | 23.80lb | 26" | 9/10 | |
10. Diamondback Bike | 44.1lb | 27.5" | 8/10 |
1. Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bikes – All-Around Basics
When it comes to the classics Schwinn is definitely one of the best-known bike companies around and for good reason. This bike is an aluminum, 24-speed option that will give you plenty of power and plenty of features to get you everywhere you want to go.
Not only that, but those 24 speeds are actually simple to rotate through with the trigger shifters and you can get the combination that you want for your riding preference as well as the area that you’re riding it. You want to have some good versatility, after all, and this bike is going to be good for most situations and most areas you’re going to ride.
The design here is simple and pretty standard, but you are getting the suspension fork at the front and at the back to help you get more bounce and a little less of the rough ride you get with some mountain bikes. You’re also going to have no problem switching from one gear to the next because it has front and rear derailleurs to help.
The disc brakes make it really easy to stop while you’re riding, even when you’re on some of the rougher areas of the trail, and the rims on the tires are actually a little wider than average so you can get more strength but still keep the lightweight that you’re really going for.
With this bike, you’ll have 29” wheels as well as an 18” frame, which is great for the average adult. You also shouldn’t have any problem adjusting the comfortable seat up and down to get the perfect fit or using any kind of tools and maintenance on this bike when it needs it.
Standard hand brakes make it easy to stop quickly when you need to and the traction through these large tires is great for making even the quickest turns. Whether you’re riding over rough trails, rocky mountains, or even a flat area, you’re going to have the control that you’re looking for with this bike and you can really get out and enjoy yourself.
What’s really great if you’re going to have something that looks great, with the jet black base and just the right amount of neon accent throughout. You’re definitely going to be seen when you head out on the trail and you’re going to like it for sure.
Handling is going to be a breeze, so you can maneuver around and over just about anything you could want. Plus, you’re going to love the fact that this bike actually comes with a limited lifetime warranty. That’s definitely one of the best reasons to go with a Schwinn bike and one of the reasons that many people prefer them. I feel this should be your best mountain bike too.
- Full suspension
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Wide tires and extra wide rims
- Sleek style and design
- A little bulkier than others
- Can be difficult to assemble
- Flat roads can be difficult for these tires
2. Schwinn Protocol 1.0 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bikes – Best Budget Option
if you’re just getting started with mountain biking or you want to save a little bit you may want to opt for an inexpensive bike. This bike is going to be just that, but that doesn’t mean you’re going to scrimp on some of the features that you really want. It’s actually still a really good bike.
Made by Schwinn, which definitely counts for quite a bit just on its own, this bike gives you two different color options which both feature a vibrant red base. That means you’re definitely going to see your bike from anywhere and so is everyone else, which can definitely be a lot of fun.
Even more important, you’re going to have a full-suspension style, so you won’t have to worry about the twists and turns or even the rough aspects of your next ride. Your bike is going to make it a whole lot easier for you to enjoy yourself without having to worry about feeling every single hole or rock along the way (because who wants that?).
You’ll have 24 different speeds to choose from, which means you shouldn’t have any problem getting yourself up and down hills, around corners and anywhere else you might need to be. With the front disc brakes and the rear alloy V-brake, you also shouldn’t have to worry at all about when you need to stop (even on that rough terrain). Your bike will stop in an instant.
The alloy rims are designed to be lightweight and still plenty durable, which is definitely important out on the trails, and they have knobby tires that help you get the traction you need no matter what you’re riding on. That’s definitely going to be important when you have sand, stones, and a whole lot more getting in the way.
What you’re really going to love about any Schwinn product is the fact that you get a limited lifetime warranty. That means they stand behind their product and they’re going to make sure that it continues to work for you. No matter what you need to be done or what happens to your bike, you can trust the company to make sure it’s taken care of.
The moderate weight of the bike and the fact that it can support plenty on its own means that you’ll have no problem riding it and definitely no problem taking it with you wherever you want to ride. Plus, it comes almost entirely assembled, so you don’t have to spend all your time getting the instructions figured out.
On top of all of this, the alloy crank makes it super simple to change gears whenever you want and the seat is adjustable enough to make sure you can get a good fit overall.
- Full suspension
- Front disc and rear alloy v-brakes
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Low maintenance
- Standard tires not ideal for rough terrain
- Rear brake adjustments can be difficult
- Bike can be a little heavy for some
3. New Diamondback Line Complete Pavement Bike – Top Kids Option
The deep blue color on this bike is the first thing you’re going to notice but it’s definitely not going to be the last because you can get a whole lot of great features with this bike. The moderate price point makes it a good pick for those who want to get a little more than entry-level with their mountain biking.
Made of aluminum, this bike is durable but still very lightweight, which is going to make it even more convenient for you to take along the next time you head out to the trail. You’ll be able to carry it along and not worry about how to get it out (even if you’re already on rough terrain). It’s also designed for older children, to make sure they can have a great time in the great outdoors.
Made with a high-quality drivetrain to make your gearing and shifting super simple but still high quality, this bike also offers mechanical disc brakes with adjustable reach levers. This is important especially for a children’s bike because you want to make sure that your child can comfortably reach the brakes at all times. If they can’t, the bike isn’t safe for them to ride.
Pedals and everything you’re going to need are included (except your safety gear of course) so your child can get out there and start riding as soon as they get their bike. That’s definitely going to make them happy and it’s going to make you even happier as well. That’s a win-win for everyone involved and it’s going to get you out on the trails, right away.
What you’re really going to love is the limited lifetime warranty on the frame, which is definitely important when you have a child using the bike, don’t you think? After all, kids aren’t exactly known for being too easy on anything that they own and a bike is no exception, especially if they’re going to be riding it on trails and worse.
The front-wheel suspension keeps that next ride a little smoother and more comfortable, but the hardtail on the backend means that they’re not going to have too much of the squishy feeling that they definitely don’t want. What’s more convenient for you, is that you’re not going to have to spend too much time putting this bike together.
High quality and durable, you’re going to be passing this bike on from one child to the next, because they’re definitely going to outgrow it before it stops being a great quality bike, and one that you can continue to safely use.
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Children’s bike that grows with them
- Hardtail suspension design
- Quick and easy to assemble
- Handlebars are a little awkward
- Old style thumb lever gears
- Would be better with more gears
4. Cyrusher FR100 Folding Mountain Bikes – Unique & Folding
Looking for one of the best mountain bikes that look super sharp but also have the features that you need to get out there on the trails? This is definitely the bike that you’re looking for. It has a sleek and stylish look, even with a basic black base. Though the orange accents all the way through definitely give it a little bit of an edge. Still, it’s more about the tires and the overall shape of the bike that really makes it look interesting.
With this bike you’re going to have a full suspension, so you get comfort and ease while you’re riding down the trails. You’re also going to have an easy time of shifting and everything else you need, no matter if you’re riding through creeks, over the road, or even on sandy or muddy terrain. This bike is built for a little bit of everything between the suspension and the traction.
What’s going to be even better, however, and another unique feature, is that this bike is actually foldable. You can use the quick-release clamp to secure it when you’re ready to ride and you can use it to fold the bike down fast when you need to get going again. That makes it super simple to put in the back of your vehicle or even to store in smaller spaces when you get it home.
Because it’s made with fat tires you’re going to have an easy time on the roughest of terrains and you’ll have the safety features that you’re looking for because it has front and rear disc brakes. That means it’s going to stop smoothly, no matter where and when you want it to. It even works when you’re heading downhills and when you’re riding at faster speeds. You’ll be able to stay safe and still stop when you want.
The moderate price point on this bike definitely compliments the features, including 26” wheels and a 17” frame. It’s almost entirely assembled when it arrives, so you can get out there and move faster. Plus it’s made of an aluminum alloy that makes it lightweight enough that you can pick it up and put it wherever you want, any time.
If you’re looking for durability and strength this is going to be a great option and it’s going to stand up to rigorous use and abuse. All you’ll need to do is figure out where you’re going to take it to ride next, and that’s definitely going to be the fun part. Though, you may have a problem picking out just one place that you want to go out riding.
- Easy to set up
- Folds to fit in small vehicles
- No adjustments needed for gear assembly
- Comfortable to ride
- Instructions are not clear
- Seat is too narrow
- Post for seat is too short for some
5. BEIOU Carbon Fiber Mountain Bikes – High-End Classic
Made with carbon fiber, this 29” mountain bike is definitely one you’re going to want to take out on the trails. It’s going to be a little more expensive than some options you’ll find out there, but the carbon fiber definitely makes it durable and it makes the bike lightweight. If you’re going to be traveling or carrying it in rough terrain for any distance you want something light.
The 30 speeds mean that you get total control over how fast you’re going and just how well this bike moves and maneuvers through just about anything. That means you can enjoy the ride, especially with the hardtail suspension. The front suspension means that you get a bit more balance to your ride and you don’t have to worry so much about things like bumps and rocks. The hardtail back, however, means that you’re not going to get too much of the squishy feel of a full suspension.
Available in several different colors to match your personal preference and different sizes to make sure it’s going to fit you, this bike is great for anyone, from the beginning to the most advanced cyclist. Of course, you’re going to have to be willing to pay a little bit more for this bike, but you’re going to have something super high quality, which makes up for the added cost.
Dual disc braking means you can stop whenever and wherever you want, with no concerns. Plus, it’s a hydraulic system, which means that it’s even more advanced and ready for anything. On top of that, you’ll have no problem getting it put together because the bike is almost entirely assembled already when you receive it. That’s going to make it simpler for you to get out there and start riding right away.
The rough style surface of this bike and the matte finish are designed to keep it looking sleek no matter how long you ride, and that’s definitely going to create the look that you’re going for. All you need to do is pick which color is going to be the right option for you and keep you feeling great about your brand new bike.
Of course, you’re not getting a brand name bike, but that’s actually a good thing because you’re going to save a bit from what you would with the higher end bikes and you’re still going to get most, if not all, of the features that you’re actually looking for. That’s going to make things a whole lot more convenient for you.
- Dual disc braking
- Carbon fiber construction
- Hardtail suspension system
- Very lightweight
- High price point
- Matte surface can collect debris
- Standard tires not ideal for off-road
6. Vilano Mountain Bikes Ridge – Entry Level Basics
This one is an inexpensive best mountain bike that you’re not going to want to miss out on because it’s still a whole lot of greatness. You’ll get a super sleek-looking black and red combination, which makes sure your bike looks great while you’re heading down the trail, but of course, that’s not the only thing that you’re going to be concerned about, right?
Made of aluminum, this is a lightweight and inexpensive bike that’s going to be a little less durable than some options, but still great quality. The mechanical disc brakes make sure that you have the ability to stop wherever you need to and the alloy mag wheels are actually slightly oversized to make sure that you have the right traction and the right control.
You want to make sure you have plenty of speeds to go around, right? And this bike is definitely going to give you that too. You’ll get a 21-speed drivetrain that you can switch between quickly and easily. That way, you can really enjoy that next ride and make sure that you’re getting the most out of all of the features. Plus, you’ll be able to get up and over any of the hills, through the rough terrain, and a whole lot more.
This 20” bike features 26” wheels so just about anyone will be able to get on this one and start riding. Plus, the small wheels mean that you’re going to have better maneuverability while you’re riding even on different types of terrain. It’s even great for riding in flat conditions, like heading out through the city or getting to work.
The suspension fork features lockout, so you can get the suspension that you want easily. So you’ll be able to enjoy either the front suspension or a full rigid design, whichever one is going to give you the ride that you’re looking for. Plus, you don’t have to worry about things like putting this bike together, because it’s going to be partially assembled and a snap from the rest.
For those who are just getting started with mountain biking or even just riding a bike in general, this is going to be a great pick and it’s definitely going to make sure you can enjoy yourself, wherever you choose to ride. You’ll be able to get everything set up and ready to go in no time, so you can hit the trails and see just what you really bought that bike for.
- Front suspension or rigid suspension
- Great for beginners
- Inexpensive price point
- 21 speed drivetrain
- Instruction manual is not clear
- Brake system is not high quality
- Disc brakes are mechanical
7. Electric Mountain Bikes – Electric Styling
Who wouldn’t want the best mountain bikes that are super simple to ride and can do most of the work for you? This electric bike is definitely going to be a great option for you. It’s a simple and sleek design available in a standard black, but it’s the options and features that are going to make it something truly unique. The fact that you get 5 different speeds is great, but it’s the ability to alternate between electric and standard that really makes for some fun.
The 300w motor here is going to give you speeds of up to 18 miles per hour when you ride and it’s going to accelerate through different speeds in a super smooth fashion. Even more, it’s going to give you up to 26 miles of range with just one full charge. If you’re not sure how much you have left, the LED display on the bike will give you battery life and it will show you the different speed settings.
When you’re riding at night you’re even going to have a headlamp that lets people know you’re there and makes sure you’re safe along the way. All you have to do is turn it on and flip the bike into the electric mode to get riding. Of course, you don’t have to use the electric feature if you don’t want to (or if you run out of power). You can also use this bike as a standard pedal bike.
Made of aluminum so it’s lightweight and also inexpensive for the features you’re getting, this bike has a mounted battery and it has a suspension fork that keeps you more comfortable while you ride. You’ll be able to glide over a lot of those rough areas on the trail with no problem. Plus, the disc brakes are designed to make it even easier for you to shift between gears and to stop wherever you need to.
Use the LED panel to choose all of your settings and even to engage the throttle that kicks in the electric portion of the bike. When you’re done, you can remove the battery and charge it for approximately 5-6 hours to get a full charge. That way, you’ll be able to get back to riding, the fun way. Even better, the battery has a key lock so no one can remove the battery without you knowing it.
The 17” frame here and the 26” wheels are going to give you just the right size and just the right features to make sure you’re comfortable while you ride for a short or extended period. All you need to do is plug in the battery and you’re going to be ready to go in no time. If you think about an electric mountain bike this one is the best mountain bike on your budget.
- Electric or pedal features
- Front suspension
- Thumb throttle
- Up to 26 miles of range
- 6 hour charging time
- Heavy for an aluminum bike
- Small speed variance
8. Montague Paratrooper Folding Mountain Bikes – Built Military Strong
A folding mountain bike can be a unique and definitely intriguing feature. Not only that but it’s great for those who have smaller vehicles and aren’t sure how to fit a full-size bike in the back. This one is full size when unfolded, but when you’re looking to transport it or you want to store it in a small space it folds up nice and easy.
Found right in the moderate to high price range, these mountain bikes come in several different sizes so you can make sure that you have the right fit for your needs. It’s available in 16” to 20” options, which makes it great for just about any rider, and it’s great even for the roughest of terrain, because even though it’s a folding bike that doesn’t mean that it has less of the other features you want.
This option has a cargo rack, mudguard, kickstand, and work stand, so the bike accessories are definitely all here too. All you need to do is figure out what you’re going to carry on it. Of course, first, you’re going to want to know about all of the other features and just why this bike is such a great pick. Aside from the folding and the accessories, it’s also a 24-speed bike.
With the 24 different speeds, you’ll be able to transition quickly and easily while you’re riding down the trail. You’ll also be able to get over and through just about anything that you encounter on the trail and beyond. That’s definitely going to be the most important feature when it comes to your next biking excursion.
Front suspension and manual disc brakes make for a comfortable ride that you can enjoy when you’re on even rough terrain. That’s because the bike gives you a smooth ride without making it too squishy or soft with full suspension. You’re still going to be able to feel the road under you and that’s definitely going to make a great impact on your next ride. Plus, you get good control and stopping power.
This bike is designed to be durable and stand up to anything. After all, you wouldn’t expect anything less from something called a ‘paratrooper’ right? This bike is actually designed to be taken by paratroopers into a plane and then dropped out and to the ground. If it can stand up to that it can definitely stand up to anything that you throw at it.
- Highly durable
- Comes with accessories
- Foldable design
- Front suspension
- Requires a lot of tuning
- Handlebars are quite low
- Weight is focused toward front of bike
9. BEIOU Carbon Fiber Mountain Bikes Hardtail MTB Shimano – Professional Design
This hardtail bike is available in five different colors, which means you’re going to have the freedom to choose exactly what you want. Also, no matter which color you choose you’re getting bright and vibrant tones. You also get to choose between several different options, including sizes that are smaller than the average, so you can make sure you’re getting a great fit.
Coming in at a slightly higher price point, this bike gives you plenty of features that you’re going to love. It has 30 different speed settings, which means you get ideal control for not just smooth surfaces but the less ideal ones as well. Plus, you’re going to have easy transitions to get between different gears and make sure you’re in the right one for hills and more.
The disc brakes are convenient and make stopping a breeze while the fork suspension and hardtail design mean that you’re not going to get too much softness while you ride. Instead, you’re going to have the control that you’re looking for while still being able to feel the route that you travel. After all, that’s going to be half the fun, right?
Designed for high-performance riders and those who are more professional about the sport, this bike is going to be a great one for anyone who really wants to get out there and ride. Even better, the carbon fiber frame is going to give you durability, strength, and a super-lightweight design that’s convenient to take with you on that next trip.
The 26” wheels are going to make sure you have the maneuverability that you would expect, and they’re still not going to interfere with the terrain that you want to travel over. Because it has knobby mountain tires you’re going to have traction control even on sand, rocks, and a whole lot more. After all, you want to make sure that you have something you can count on to really get you up and moving, right?
The assembly process for this bike is very simple because most of it is already assembled when it arrives. That means you’re not going to have a problem getting it ready to go for that first ride. Because it’s lightweight you’re also going to have no problem loading it up into a vehicle or even carrying it whenever and wherever you might need to (though it can ride through just about anything).
You’ll definitely love the setup and the style and you’ll have plenty of adjustment capabilities when it comes to the suspension, the brakes, and the seat to make sure you have the perfect fit overall. Probably this is the best mountain bike on your budget.
- Carbon fiber construction
- Hardtail suspension system
- 30 different speeds
- Very lightweight for transport
- High price point
- Bike seat is very hard
- Can be somewhat loud while riding
10. Diamondback Bicycles Overdrive – Middle of the Road Basics
The moderate price point on this bike is definitely going to make it a top pick for just about anyone who’s in the market for mountain bikes. It’s a deep green color that definitely looks like it belongs in the woods or somewhere out in the wilderness and it’s designed in a standard style that’s comfortable to ride for extended periods as well.
Available in several different sizes to make sure you can get a great fit, you’ll also be able to adjust just about anything from the suspension and brakes to the seat, to make sure it’s the perfect riding style for you. With the aluminum frame, you’re also going to have something inexpensive but durable and lightweight. That means you shouldn’t have any problem taking it with you wherever you might want to go on that next trip.
The 27.5” wheels are slightly larger than others that you’ll find, making them a great balance between the maneuverability that you expect from smaller wheels and the flexibility for different types of trail riding that you get with larger ones. It’s able to really get over those obstacles, so you don’t have to worry about anything getting in your way.
On top of that, you’re going to have a front suspension to this hardtail design, which is going to keep you from getting too bogged down with all the little bumps like you’d find with a rigid suspension, but it’s also not too squishy like a full suspension can be. You’re going to have a good amount of balance and you’re going to get the great control that you’re looking for at the same time.
With this bike, you have 24 speeds, which is enough to get you up and over anything (especially in conjunction with the larger wheels) and it’s great for riding on different types of terrain. Plus, you’ll have disc brakes that will make sure you can stop at any time on that trail. With the knobby tires, you’re going to have a good grip on sand, rocks, dirt, roots, and a whole lot more, which is always an important feature for an off-road bike.
Already almost all the way assembled, you’re going to have no trouble at all getting this bike finished up so you can hit the trails. That’s going to be a whole lot more convenient than spending hours assembling a bike from scratch. You can count on the company as well because if there’s anything wrong they stand behind the bikes and make sure that it’s made right for you.
Stylish, sleek, and ready for absolutely anything, this is definitely going to be a bike that you don’t want to miss out on. It’s something that you can use for a long time, no matter where you like to ride, or how much work you put your bikes through. You’ll just want to check for a few extra bike components to make sure you have the best quality.
- 24 speeds
- Hardtail suspension system
- 27.5” slightly oversized wheels
- Moderate price point
- The seat is very uncomfortable
- Grips can be hard
- Plastic pedals are not ideal
How to Select The Right Kind of Mountain Bikes?
You’ve probably looked at bikes before, whether mountain bikes, city bikes, or any other type. That means you’ve probably seen how many multitudes of options there really are. But if you want to get the best mountain bikes and one that’s going to work for you, you need to know the important features to watch for.
Not every bike is made the same way. That means some are just naturally better quality than others. Being able to take a look at some of the features helps you get the best bike and the one that’s built for your needs, right? So, just what should you be looking for?
Does it Fold?
This is a personal preference but since several of the bikes already in here fold up, I thought it was something that I should mention. A folding bike can definitely be unique and interesting but it’s also super convenient. Think about it, you don’t need to have a large vehicle, a large trunk, or cables to tie your bike to the roof of your vehicle, right?
With a folding bike, you’ll be able to put it in just about any type of car and that’s definitely going to make things easier for you. Plus, you’re not going to have a problem putting more than one bike in your vehicle. Want to take the whole family out? You can fit several folded bikes into the car with no problem and head out to the trails.
Does it Have Multiple Speeds/Gears?
If you’re going to be biking on rough terrain or if you’re going to be mixing things up and taking your bike to different areas you may want to have different speeds. You’ll be able to get more control and you’re definitely going to have an easier time of it when you’re on different types of terrain. If you end up in a straightaway you can up the speed or slow it down for rough areas.
Not only that but higher gears are going to make it a lot easier to get up different hills and more extensive terrain. On the other hand, you’re going to sacrifice some when it comes to weight. More gears are going to weigh your bike down a little bit more which can be a downfall for some riders. If you want to make you’re riding a little easier, however, you may want to look at the different combinations and features that are available for the speeds.
I know having multiple speeds on my bike is really convenient and that it’s something I prefer because t makes for a more versatile bike. Having only a single-speed is generally going to be a problem, or at least an inconvenience when you’re trying to move more quickly along. But of course, you are not something you absolutely have to have and if you want to save a little money a single speed bike could be the best way.
What Type of Style do You Want?
You probably didn’t think there were different styles of mountain bikes, did you? But there are actually several different options you’ll want to at least look at. An all-mountain bike is similar to the typical one you’ve seen before, giving you some good traction and letting you get a great ride whether you’re going down a steep hill or climbing up one. They’re lightweight, good for getting around and they still have plenty of power.
A fat bike is one with larger tires that are designed to give you even more traction. These are great if you’re planning on riding in the winter, in the snow or if you like to ride at the beach. The larger tires make it a whole lot easier to get around. For people just looking for their first mountain bikes these might be great because they can take a little more abuse on the trail.
The cross-country bike is great for those who want to get moving fast, even when you are riding on more difficult trails. It’s also great for efficiency. On top of all of that, it’s actually a lightweight option, which makes it great if you’ll need to carry it part of the way. There’s no reason to sacrifice speed for quality with this type.
Finally, the trail bike is the one you’ve probably been thinking about and the one that most people get to start. These bikes can be used for any type of trail and they are super simple to get started using. You don’t have to worry about how to get used to them or what they can do. They’re also super-efficient and they don’t weigh too much, so you can transport them easily.
What Kind of Suspension is There?
You’ll find three different types of suspension on mountain bikes. The first is a rigid style, which actually means you don’t have suspension. This can be a little more difficult because you’re going to have a bumpy ride while you’re out there. If you don’t have a suspension you’re going to absorb a lot of that yourself. But these can be less expensive than other options and if you’re comfortable with them then it’s a great option.
Hardtail suspension is the next one up and this one has suspension on the front but not on the back. The fork at the front means that the front wheel is going to take a bit more of the brunt of things. You won’t have a whole lot of maintenance here, though you will have more than with a rigid bike. You’ll also have something a little more expensive than the rigid style but not quite as expensive as a full suspension.
If you want to really be comfortable out on the trail you’ll want a full-suspension bike. These actually have suspension at the front fork as well as at the back. That means, overall, you’re going to have a whole lot more comfortable in your ride and you won’t have to worry about traction either, so it’s a win-win option for a lot of people.
What Size Wheels Do You Want?
Did you know that bikes have different size wheels? The different wheels are going to give you a slightly different ride, so knowing what you’re looking for before you walk in anywhere is generally going to be a good idea. There are three common sizes of wheels when it comes to adult bikes, so take a look at what your preference is.
The most common size used to be 26” and you’ll still find them pretty much anywhere. They do have some good features because you’re going to have some good maneuverability. That means you can move them where you want them and you can do it more quickly than with larger wheels.
The next size is 27.5”, which is a great balancing area for most people. You can get some pretty good maneuverability as you do with the 26” wheels but you’re also going to get better movement over some of that rough terrain like you to do with the 29” wheels.
So, I guess you probably know what we’re going to talk about here, right? Yep, 29” wheels are the next ones up and they’re actually starting to grow in popularity. You’re going to get further on rough terrain with these wheels, but you’re not going to move quite as fast as with smaller ones. If you want to take a long ride you’ll probably want these though.
What is Your Bike Made of?
There are several materials that bikes can be made from, so it’s going to mostly depend on your personal preference to choose the perfect style. Just make sure you look at things like durability and weight when you make your choice. You may actually be surprised just what your bike can do based on the materials it comes from.
An aluminum alloy material is one of the most common and most popular because they tend to be quite lightweight. If you’re going to travel through the mountains or rough trails with your bike that weight difference can be a big one and it definitely helps you move around more easily, but aluminum isn’t quite as durable as other options.
Steel bikes are great if you want durability and if you’re looking for something that feels really smooth while you’re riding. Not only that but they’re actually quite inexpensive. That makes them great for those who are just getting started or who prioritize comfort over anything, but you will have to deal with the heavier weight for the bike.
Titanium is another durable option, which makes it great if you can be a little tough on your bikes. It’s also lightweight, which takes care of one of the biggest drawbacks of the steel bikes that you’ll find. Unfortunately, these bikes tend to be quite expensive, which means they’re not so good for most riders.
Finally, we have carbon fiber bikes. These give you some of the best features of most of these areas with a great variety of styles and definitely the fact that they’re really strong and very lightweight. On the downside, they tend to be pretty expensive, which can be a problem for some.
What Kind of Brakes Does it Have?
Different types of brakes can be an extremely important part of the process, especially if you have a preference one way or the other. Each style has its benefits and drawbacks, so make sure you pay close attention and maybe even try out each option to see if one is a better fit for your style of riding.
When it comes to disc brakes you’re going to have more consistency. These types of brakes work well in different conditions like wet weather or dry weather. They also tend to be a lot cheaper to replace because you only have to swap out the rotor instead of the wheel entirely. Plus, you’ll have less strain and you get a good grip even on steep terrain. Unfortunately, you’re going to have a more difficult inspection process and they can be more expensive if you need to service them.
On the other side of the coin are rim brakes. These are, for the most part, being phased out by the disc brakes I already mentioned, but they do have some good benefits too, like the fact that it’s inexpensive and super easy to see when the brake pads are getting worn out so you can swap them out. On the other hand, the rim itself will eventually wear out and need to be replaced, plus they’re not as good in some of the less than ideal conditions you might be riding in.
Does it Fit?
Bikes are generally available in different sizes like small, medium, and large. These correspond to the height of the person who’s going to be riding it, so you want to make sure that person is present when you’re picking out a bike. After all, you want to be comfortable and have enough space to stretch your legs but not so much that you feel like you’re going to lose control, right?
Conclusion
When it comes down to it, you’re going to find a whole bunch of different mountain bikes that can really get you anywhere you want to go and help you accomplish just about anything. You’ll be able to really enjoy the ride and you’re definitely going to love some of the high-end features that you can find with some of these. What could be better than a great quality bike, after all? You definitely can’t go wrong with any of these, and that means all you need to do is take a look at some features, in case you’re trying to narrow things down. Of course, you’re also going to need to pick up some bike clothing to make sure you get the most out of that next ride, right?
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