Folding mountain bikes are becoming more popular. Manufacturers are trying to produce more and more technological models, and the buyer no longer has time to get acquainted with the pros and cons of various options. Therefore, choosing a mountain bike is not such an easy task. Let's try to figure it out.
Features
The main difference between a folding bike and a standard one is a folding mechanism, which is convenient both during travel and during storage. This is a bike with a low weight, in addition, it is cheaper than a conventional mountain model, as it is simpler in design. The folding option is allowed to be transported on a bus, but its main advantage is safety, since it is quite difficult to develop a high speed on a folding bicycle.
The design involves the presence of a lower frame, which greatly facilitates operation. This is a rather maneuverable two-wheeled transport, which is chosen by lovers of leisurely mountain bike rides. It easily and quickly develops, and the process itself is not only for men, but also for fragile women.
Types and manufacturers
Mostly folding mountain models are classified by wheel size. When choosing a bike with certain parameters, keep in mind that the larger the wheel, the more smoothly it rides, better overcomes bumps and turns worse. And, accordingly, vice versa.
Consider the most popular options, the manufacturers of which occupy the top places in world ratings.
- With big wheels. Basically, these bikes are represented by the brands Montague and Dahon. Also popular are the Redlof models, which are widely available not only in sports stores in Russia, but also in online stores.They can even be found in the United States under the brand name CariBike. The large-wheel version is a model with wheels measuring 26 inches or more.
- Wheels 20 and 24 inches. Folding bikes with 20 and 24 inch disc options are the most common options. They are maneuverable, comfortable, but they also have disadvantages. For example, a cyclist will spend more time folding, and even when folded, such models take up a lot of space.
- The most popular model with 20-inch wheels is Bike friday from the American company Green Gear, but it's still a pretty expensive option. You can choose a more budgetary analogue, for example, Boardwalk Raleigh. Of course, in operation it is not so convenient, but the inexpensive price compensates for this minus.
- Another brand - Moulton APB - produces bicycles with wheels of 20 inches, however, these are, rather, collapsible, rather than folding models. But they are perfect for road trips and do not take up much space in the trunk. Also, users note a high-quality suspension, convenient for off-road driving.
- Wheels 16 and 18 inches. These are the most compact travel models that can be folded very quickly (in 20 seconds) to the size of a suitcase. True, it is not so easy to find them on sale. Such specimens are designed for trips with a length of 80-160 kilometers. Small wheels provide a tough ride, which is why all bikes with 16 and 18 inch wheels have suspension.
- The most famous model with 16-inch wheels is considered Brompton. Lovers of mountain walks note comfort during movement, which is largely ensured by the rear suspension. Among the shortcomings, one can single out a large weight for such a small bicycle - 11.2 kg.
- German-Taiwanese double-suspension folding bike is also popular in the Velomir. Birdy with a lightweight aluminum frame. To turn a road model into a mountain one, you need to separately purchase special tires.
- Small wheels. Folding bicycles with wheels less than 16 inches are included in this category. These are less mobile models, they are rarely supplied with shock absorbers and are offered with soft tires, which can provoke a decrease in rolling speed. Also observed is the fact that when folded, these bikes take up more space than many models with 16-inch wheels. These bikes are manufactured by Dahon and Tern.
Mountain bikes can also be divided according to the folding method. These are mainly models that fold in half. Depending on the modification, the steering wheel and seat can additionally be folded.
Mountain folding bikes also differ in the type of brakes.
- Foot. Assumes a stop when turning the pedals back. Now it is considered the least popular option, found on outdated and budget models.
- Rim. Most of the models have this particular type of brake. It belongs to the middle price category.
- Disk. The most powerful types that give great confidence and provide reliability. However, these are expensive models, and many cyclists do not see the need for their purchase, preferring rim brakes.
It is worth mentioning the differences in the materials of manufacture, especially the frame:
- the heaviest and cheapest option has a steel frame;
- lightweight, inexpensive, convenient and reliable copy - a bicycle with an aluminum frame;
- an even lighter specimen has a carbon frame, but it is the most expensive variety.
In addition, it is worth distinguishing between the children's, teenage and adult versions of the bike. You should buy one that matches the age of the cyclist.
How to choose?
When buying a mountain folding bike, use the following guidelines.
- If two-wheeled vehicles will be operated exclusively in the mountains, then select the maximum wheel size.
- Be sure to make sure the folding mechanism is in good condition at the time of purchase. Check how comfortable the bike is folding and how long it takes.
- It is more convenient to use those models that, when folded, can be rolled and not carried in hands.
- Make sure that the model you choose matches the height and weight of the cyclist. The higher the lover of mountain bike rides, the greater should be the length of the frame.
- For women, it is recommended to choose models with a lowered frame. Men's options have a straight and rigid design.
Browse folding mountain bikes in the next video.
