Just as there are many makes of automobiles, TV's, and cell phones there are many makes of mountain bikes. How to select the one that is just right for you? That is the answer I will be helping you with in this post. I will be the first to say I don't know everything, I don't know you, but I do know some of the questions to ask and facts to point out to make a selection easier.
Let's begin by defining what it is you will be doing with your bike. I read somewhere that no more than 25% of all fat tire bikes are used on trails. The majority of them are used to get back and forth to school, work, or just to tool around on. Bike requirements are very different depending upon it's use. If you plan on going out on the trails as often as you can it would probably be best to buy a good name brand bike with heavier components. Let's face it, the trails are tough on brakes, shifters, and forks. If you do plan to be a trail rider you might want to consider going out to one of the local trails and ask around. There is nothing like a personal recommendation to bolster confidence. If you see more of one brand than another that can also be a good sign. While we are on the topic of how you will use your bike it might be a good idea to talk about the difference between a hardtail and a fully suspended bike (FS). By way of definition a hardtail has a suspended front fork while an FS bike has additional suspension for the rear. If you are new to MTB I would suggest a hardtail to begin with. It is cheaper and easier to maintain.
One of the most important factors in deciding upon a bike is cost. As a general rule of thumb buy as much bike as you can afford. There are exceptions to that. Let me relate my tale of bike acquisition as an example. I began biking after a knee surgery. I had not ridden a bike in years but wanted to keep up my exercise regime. I put out the word among my friends and co-workers that I was interested in buying a used bike. Not long after the word went out I was the proud owner of a $20.00 non-name brand bike. A cheap set of tires and a friend supplied (free) tune up and I was ready to roll. As time went on I found myself enjoying biking more and more. I then discovered MTB and I was hooked. After a year and a half on the $20.00 bike I bought a new one.
If a new bike is the way you are going I suggest several things. First, do your research. Google mountain bikes and read the reviews on various bikes. Decide a price range that is right for you. If you are not sure biking is for you get into it cheaply. Do as I did, ask around for a used bike. Second, visit a local bike store (LBS). Most stores allow test rides and the importance of a test ride can not be over estimated. If you are going to spend several hours on a bike make sure it feels comfortable. When I bought my last bike I test rode two bikes and the minute I set on the second one I knew that was the one. It just felt right.
Notice I am suggesting a LBS rather than a large department store? As a general rule the LBS will give you more bike for your money. The Walmarts of the world will give you a cheaper price but remember, you get what you pay for. If your bike breaks often it isn't much of a bargain. As importantly is repair of the bike. Sooner or later it will break - guaranteed. If you are out on the trails it will happen more often than if you are just riding the streets - Duh - but it will happen. Here is a shameless plug for the LBS where I bought my bike http://www.bicyclesinc.com/ Good shop and they give free maintenance for as long as you own the bike. That is a deal. Be sure, if you wreck your bike and break stuff it won't be covered but the routine stuff is. It has saved me a bunch of money on tune ups and adjustments. Won't get that at Walmart.
So far then - decide your use for the bike, pick a price range, do some research, find an LBS, and, take a test ride. So what else is left?
One thing for sure. Have your LBS person fit the bike to you. Yes, that is important. Getting the most out of you and your bike means making sure it is adjusted specifically to you. The seat height, the position of the handlebars, and even the size of the grips can make a big difference in your performance and comfort. Have a professional set you up, it is worth it. Did you know bikes come in different sizes? I'm not talking about the tire size - 26 inch or 29 inch, I am talking about frame size. Generally speaking, the size of the frame is dictated by the height of the rider. Your LBS professional can get you in the right size bike.
Well, enough for now. Feel free to argue with me on any point or to drop me an email at marshall212@yahoo.com
Later
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