Shopping for a New Mountain Road Bike
Off-road cycling is as old as cycling itself, but it’s not until the 1970s that specialist mountain bike manufacture really took off. Mountain bike frames were originally based on road bikes, but the technology soon had to evolve to meet the unique demands of rough terrain and difficult conditions.
Nowadays mountain bikes are bristling with technological bits and bobs, all designed to make riding easier and more accessible. So you can take on more demanding terrain, harder rides and thanks to the advancement in safety equipment take on much more dangerous descents.
Gears
Mountain bikes have up to 27 gears so no matter the ascent you can tackle it with ease.
Suspension
A good quality suspension system is invaluable when off road biking at speed. Most mountain bikes have at least front suspension - great for uneven descents. Full suspension is the best option if you’re riding really rough terrain, but if all your cycling is smooth and leisurely you’ll find you just don’t need it.
Frames
Your bike is literally built around the frame and as your bikes gets put through its paces, so does your frame. Your frame has to be tough enough to take the hammer it will get on route, so needs to be made from the strongest possible alloys. Your bikes frame has of course got to be strong but at the same time must be light weight for maximum performance.
Brakes
All good mountain bikes are fitted with disc brakes to the front and rear wheels. Fitted to the centre of the wheel they stay well away from all that mud and dirt, making them more durable, efficient and reliable.
Tyres
Chunky tyres with thick treads make mountain bikes tyres very different to road bikes. This gives extra grip on muddy ground, better shock absorption and makes it easier to get over rough terrain at speed. You can change your tyres to deal with different conditions.