A Few Updated Tips on Buying a Mountain Bike

Both experienced mountain bikers and novices can always use a few tips on buying a mountain bike. This is an evolving technology, and what was applicable yesterday may have been improved upon or superceded.

Helpful Tips On Buying A Mountain Bike

Mountain biking has grown immensely over the last decade or so. And why shouldn't it? It's fun, fast, exciting, adventurous, healthy, environmentally friendly and a fantastic way to experience nature and see the countryside.

But mountain bikes come in so many different shapes, sizes, types and brands, not to mention colors, that choosing the right one can be quite complicated. This article will hopefully guide you to making the right decision.

The starting point of buying a mountain bike is to know what kind of riding will you do, so that you can choose the appropriate type. Because bikes are designed for different types of riding (casual, downhill, off-road, and so on), you need to know which type will suit your needs the best. Full suspension, front suspension or no suspension at all?

One of the most important aspects of buying a new mountain bike is choosing the right size. Size is important and it affects how you ride. Here are some general guidelines based on height: People shorter than 5'4" usually go for 15" or less, people between 5'4" and 5'11" are most comfortable with 17", people between 5'11" and 6'2" prefer 19", and people taller than 6'2" choose 21" or more.

You can spend a lot of money on a mountain bike, so it's good to have your budget set before buying. You don't want to spend more than is necessary, but you don't want to be cheap either. Remember, you get what you pay for. The best time to buy is in the fall when next year's models come out. When new stock arrives, old stock is cleared and prices drop.

The goal is to get the highest quality bike in your price range. You should look carefully at the bike's components like brakes, brake levers, shift levers, derailleurs and so on. If you think that a full-suspension bicycle for $150 is a quality bike, think again. With poor-quality components you won't get very far.

When you eventually buy a bike, don't forget on other important pieces of biking gear - helmet, water bottle, tire pump, bike shorts (your behind will be grateful), gloves and glasses.

Tags: bicycling, biking, Cycling, exercise, fitness, Mountain Bikes, Mountain Biking, recreation