| Mountain Biking is one of the fastest growing sports in | | | | general rule of thumb is that when standing flat footed |
| the world because it couples the thrills of riding a bike | | | | on the ground, you should have a minimum of 3" |
| down trails of different terrain, as well as being a | | | | clearance between yourself and the top tube of the |
| relatively cheap and accessible sport to get get into. | | | | frame. Other than that, there are slight differences |
| Although most mountain bikes are very similar in their | | | | when comparing mountain bikes from one |
| fundamental design, there are a few key components | | | | manufacturer to another. Make sure you check the |
| that you should carefully consider when evaluating | | | | seat, frame and handle bars when sitting in the saddle |
| bikes before making that final purchasing decision. | | | | and select the bike that feels the most comfortable to |
| Type of Mountain Bike | | | | you. A bike that feels great to me, someone of below |
| There are essentially three different types of bikes, | | | | average height (I am only 5ft 2 inches tall) may not |
| either (i) a full suspension bike which has a shock | | | | feel so good to you if you happen to be over 6 feet |
| absorber attached between the frame and the front | | | | tall. The seat needs to be comfortable, the frame |
| wheel, or (ii) a dual suspension bike which is fitted with | | | | sturdy and the handle bars well away from your |
| two shock absorbers, one at the front and one at the | | | | knees when you cycle. |
| rear wheel, or finally (iii) a hard tail bike which does not | | | | Your Budget |
| have the shock in the middle of the frame. As a result | | | | These days it's simply not enough to purchase a |
| of the shock absorbers, suspension bikes offers a | | | | mountain bike. Remember that mountain biking can be |
| much more comfortable ride through difficult trails, | | | | a dangerous sport if you are not fully geared up for it, |
| although they are slightly heavier than a hard tail bike. | | | | and so certain accessories should be mandatory |
| You will also find that hard tail bikes are usually more | | | | purchases with your bike (unless you already have |
| suited for racing and faster than full suspension bikes | | | | them of course). Make sure that you have the budget |
| due to the lighter frame. | | | | for a bike helmet, some gloves, knee and elbow pads, |
| Size of Frame | | | | comfortable cycling shorts, and possibly even a bike |
| If you are looking to purchase a mountain bike for a | | | | lock. If you plan on riding your mountain bike on the |
| child, then make sure you select the right size of bike | | | | road and late at night then get yourself some |
| according to their age and height. There are various | | | | fluorescent or reflective high visibility clothing. |
| sizes of bikes available and we recommend that you | | | | Hopefully these three essential tips will assist you in |
| take your child to your local bike store and get some | | | | buying the perfect mountain bike for yourself or your |
| professional assistance. Adult bikes are standard size | | | | loved ones. |
| in that they usually have 26 inch wheels. However, the | | | | |