How To Buy A Mountain Bike

If you are wondering how to buy a mountain bike, you are probably planning to do some trail riding with your bike. It is important that you purchase the correct bike for off-road riding. When you go to buy a mountain bike, you will need to find one that fits you properly and can handle the abuse of trail riding.

1. Purchase a mountain bike. Some bikes are made for trails, some are made for street racing and others are made for both. If you plan on doing hardcore mountain biking, purchase a real mountain bike.
2. Look at the tires. A true mountain bike will have thick tires with deep treads. These tire will need to grip onto different types of surfaces. Thin street racing tires will not be able to grip onto some surfaces, like slippery rocks. This can be a hazard when you are riding a mountain bike on a trail.
3. Get onto the bike. Before you buy a mountain bike be sure it fits you correctly. Bend over at a 45 degree angle, while on the bike. The handle bars should be at a comfortable distance. You should not feel as if you are stretching to reach your handle bars when on a mountain bike.
4. Place your feet on the pedals. If the bike fits you correctly, your leg should be almost completely extended when your foot is placed on the pedal at the lowest point in its rotation.
5. Look for front and back suspension. If you plan to do a lot of riding, make sure the mountain bike that you buy has good quality suspension. Often, the more suspension on a bike means a more expensive bike. The suspension is important for a comfortable ride. If your bike does not handle rough surfaces well, you will not want to ride it. Do not skimp on quality when you buy a mountain bike.

When you buy a mountain bike, you are investing in a piece of equipment.  This investment will be what keeps you safe and comfortable on the trail. When you buy a mountain bike make sure you pick up other safety accessories, such as a helmet and water bottle holder. A water bottle holder that attaches to a mountain bike gives you a great place to store water for long rides. A bike helmet is an essential part of staying safe on the trail.\

Resource:

Beginner's Mountain Bike Info Guide