Mountain Bikes come in every imaginable shape and size. I’ve classified them into several main categories based on frame design so that you can get a clear picture of what’s out there. Before you decide on a bike, be sure to study each category to see which best fits you, your riding style, and your budget.

Hardtails

Hardtails- are the classic mountain bike frame design. The versatile and strong frames that this sport grew up on. They received the name “hardtail” because they lack any rear suspension. These come in a range of materials such as, cromoly, aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. A lot of cross crountry racers still swear by the hardtail frame. This is becuase all pedaling energy goes directly to the rear wheel instead of some being lost due to suspension. There is a hardtail made for every venue of riding, from light weight cross country to beefy dirt jumping. You can’t go wrong with a hardtail. If you are new to mountain biking, then you should start out on one of these. Everyone should have one in their lineup. Hardtails generally start in the $300 dollar price range for an entry level bike.

 

 

Full Suspension

 

Full Suspension – also called Dual Suspension or just Dually for short. They have shock absorbing capabilities for the rear wheel as well as the front. Frames come in every imaginable shape and size, but most are made from high quality aluminum alloys. There are a few tried and tested suspension designs out there. They make up four basic categories.

 

• Four Bar Linkage
• Single Pivot
• Rocker Arm
• Swing Arm

 

Note – Some of the suspension designs out there are very complex and involve tons of bearings and linkages. If you ride in dry conditions most of the time this really isn’t too much of a problem. But, if you ride in muddy or wet areas on a regular basis, beware that all those linkages and pivot points mean probable maintenance headaches. This is something to consider before purchasing.

 

 

Softail

 

Softails – get their name from their short travel rear suspension design. They rely on a single shock absorber. It is usually located on the seatstay just behind the seat. This shock absorber is generally just a simple air shock or an elastomer “bumper”. The softail suspension utilizes flame flex as part of the design, so travel is limited to around an inch. Because of the flex, frames are commonly made out of cromoly steel. Softails were conceived as a way to have bump softening without the weight associated with full suspension cross country bikes. Their strong points are being lightweight and low maintenance. However, keep in mind that with the amazing advances in MTB suspension, these softails are starting to fade away.

 

 

 

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Posted by admin on August 11th, 2011 :: Filed under Uncategorized

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as well as finding the best mountain bikes, accessories, and parts available online. This site focuses on teaching how to buy, build, maintain, and ride. We are here to promote this amazing sport by offering the latest information, so you will only find the best magazines, books, bike parts, and bike shops the sport has to offer. We make it easy to find the right gear the first time so yMountainBikeSource
is the source
for learning about Mountain Bikesou can get out there and ride.

Do you love pounding up those steep climbs? Do you ride for the thrill of a downhill descent? Are you a beginner looking for a place to start? Expert or novice; you’ve come to the right place for great Mountain biking info!

There is something for everyone: For the beginner we cover the basic frame designs along with some things you should know before purchasing a new mountain bike. A few Do’s and Don’ts and a few things every beginner oughta know.

 

 

For the more experienced rider, we will look into bicycle maintenance and discuss the nitty gritty of components. We will also talk a bit about setting up your bike to get the correct geometry for you.

 

Of course there are some things that beginner and expert alike need to know. The trail guide will tell you where to ride and how to get there. You can take a look at all the best mountain bike accessories as well as mountain bike gear and apparel.

 

But…before you get started. Please take a moment to sign up for Mountain Bike Source News. A FREE newsletter that keeps you informed every month of important news in the mountain biking community along with special deals and discounts on quality gear. We also discuss tips and tricks to building, caring for, and riding your bike.

 

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Posted by admin on August 9th, 2011 :: Filed under Uncategorized

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