How To Purchase a New Off Road Bike
Although cycling dates back centuries, specialist mountain bike production has moved forwards considerably over the past 35 years. Originally based on road bikes, the technology has changed enormously to cater for the rigours and strains of cycling on difficult off road conditions.
Off road riding is made much easier thanks to the innovations in the bikes design and build. 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
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. This is why super-strong materials and specialised shapes are de rigueur. 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. Positioned near the wheels rim they are well away from the tyre and the mud, so are less likely to become clogged up making them more responsive even in the muddiest conditions.
Tyres
Road bike tyres are very smooth and slim when compared to big, thick mountain bike tyres. Better absorption of shocks and greater grip on slippery tracks makes these tyres idea for off-road terrain. Different tyre profiles are available depending on the conditions you are likely to encounter.
Women-Specific
Women’s requirements are catered for by specialist ladies bikes. With smaller frame sizes, reduced reach at key points and more comfortable saddles these bikes are much easier for women to ride. We recommend testing a number of ladies bikes from different manufacturers before making the decision to buy as many will have subtle differences.
Posted: June 9th, 2009 under Recreation and Sports.