Buying a New Mountain Bike

Although cycling dates back centuries, specialist mountain bike production has moved forwards considerably over the past 35 years. 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.

Major changes in bikes component production make riding more pleasurable than ever. This means you can take on harder trails, higher risk and a hell of a lot more fun.

Gears
With up to 27 gears available even the steepest of hills can be taken on.

Suspension
One of the greatest leaps forwards has been the development of your bike’s suspension which makes the roughest of rides much more comfortable. 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
Improved suspension makes harder rides more fun, so your bike gets puts through its paces and this increases the strain on you bike’s 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. A mountain bike frame is designed to take all the stress you put it through and still be light enough to drag up those unforgiving ascents.

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.

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