How to choose a bike for downhill?

The number of addicts downhill is constantly growing. Fans of this sport climb the hills in any weather and at any time of the year. They are not afraid of either rains, or gusts of wind, or snow in the desire to feel the speed at the same time as extreme. The best place for athletes is the coolest hill that can give a large portion of adrenaline.

Downhill can be translated from English as "down the hill." This sport appeared in 1976 and is a race on a mountain road in a special two-wheeled vehicle. The first models of bike bikes for downhill appeared in the early 90's and are constantly being improved. A downhill bike is a mountain bike option with amortization of both wheels. Its purpose is to descend along very steep paths with many stones. The main difference from other mountain models is a powerful and thick frame with increased strength. This frame structure sometimes makes them look like freeride cycling bikes. This is not surprising, since they are designed to withstand blows while riding and overcome various obstacles in the form of logs, ditches and the like.

It is worth noting that powerful downhill bikes quite often, riders do not have to drive up the hill themselves. For this, special lifts or machines are used. This bike weighs an average of about 14 kg, although there are lighter models weighing 10 kg.

Most often downhill bikes are made aluminum or carbon. The rear suspension is characterized by a stroke in the range from 17.8 to 25.4 cm. As a rule, under the athlete, the suspension sags 25-50%. This allows you to land gently while overcoming obstacles at high speeds.The front fork on these models is 7–8-inch. In centimeters, this will be from 17.8 to 20.3 cm. A long stroke is preferable, so it is better to choose the 8-inch option. The steering wheel should be inclined to 66 degrees.

As for the removal of the steering wheel, its fastening is organized using five grips. Its adjustment can be carried out depending on the route and manner of passage. The steering wheel is durable, its pipe is at least 1.5 inches in diameter (3.8 cm). Wheels in diameter reach 24–29 inches. Also, very wide wheels are sometimes found, characterized by increased adhesion to the ground. The brakes are mostly disc.

Beginner hill climbers should be especially responsible for choosing their first downhill bike. Keep in mind that beginners will have to work hard, gaining the skills to control an unusual mountain bike and good physical fitness. Before choosing, it is important to decide what exactly two-wheeled transport is for: for short and simple speed rides or for competitions with full-fledged extreme sports.

Do not expect models for the downhill to be a good option for simple cycling. It should be borne in mind that they will have to get up standing. Currently, a variety of models can satisfy the needs of both novice athletes and professionals. If you wish, you can always order a bike just for yourself.

The frame is one of the basic elements of a bicycle. Comfort and driving efficiency depend on her choosing the right one. Frame selection is based on material and size. The last parameter is easy to choose for your height, using special tables. Aluminium alloy for downhill bikes is used quite often. Recently, magnesium has been added to the composition of such alloys, which can reduce weight and increase strength. In more budget models, zinc is found. Steel frames, despite its strength, a rarity. The fact is that this material increases the weight of the entire bike too much. Mostly they can be found among older models.

Carbon Models differ in high price. However, it must be borne in mind that for it you get a very strong frame that tolerates mechanical damage well. At the same time, carbon frames are lighter in weight than aluminum. Chromomolybdenum was not so long ago very popular. This is due to the fact that such an alloy did not have the effect of bending fatigue.

A special suspension allows the bike for the downhill to travel at a speed of 60–70 km / h and at the same time to jump on steep slopes. The most common four-link suspension system. With it, the wheel is able to move exclusively upward, without making a shift towards the saddle.

Sure, single lever options allow you to perfectly pass areas with bumps. With such a suspension, vehicles with pedals spinning will swing much less, which is important when descending from stony hills.

This is another very important element of a good downhill bike. The best option is a suspension fork with two crowns. It allows you to reduce the load on the frame and steering wheel, as well as increase torsional rigidity. This technique is used in motorcycles.

Wheels must be strong and heavy. Well-selected knitting needles will withstand a greater number of different loads. In many ways, the correct assembly of the wheel also affects the cross-country ability. The choice should be made taking into account the riding style, as well as the features of the terrain on which the races will be made.

Brake systems on bikes for a downhill must be of high quality. These can only be expensive options. An important point is the creation of significant effort by the brakes. Usually, the choice is between two or four piston models. Of course, the four-piston brake system is considered the most reliable.

On downhill models, only the rear derailleur is most often found. This is because during downhill there is no need to change gears in a wide range. Among the reliable systems, users note the Sram X7, Sram X9, as well as Shimano models. They work stably and at the same time are affordable. However, experts advise paying attention to American speed switches, designed specifically for bike bikes for downhill.

The cost of cycling for a downhill today starts at $ 1,000–2,000. Prices can vary greatly by manufacturer, assembly, configuration. If the choice fell on affordable bikes, it is important to pay attention to the reliability of the main components and the suspension travel.

For novice athletes, it is better to prefer inexpensive and reliable models, for example, the Cube brand. It is worth noting that by purchasing a bike from a well-known company, you can get a guarantee for a lifetime. Comfortable models for permanent downhill classes will cost an average of $ 9,000.

Among the popular manufacturers of downhill cycle models, the company stands out Eltreco. This company uses spare parts from leading manufacturers, including Kenda, Shimano and others. The main goal of the brand is to create vehicles that are environmentally friendly. Factories are located in China and South Korea. Swiss company Scott started its activities in 1986. Its main difference from other manufacturers is its unusual technological solutions. For example, a brand has bicycles with an aerodynamic steering wheel and a very light frame. Among the models there are many professional ones who are able to cope with routes of any complexity.

Giant was founded in 1972 in Taiwan. Today, the company ranks among the leaders in the production of bicycles. Interesting technologies of the company are the creation of carbon frames without welds. At the same time, the company developed the original Maestro rear suspension and an economical way of coating paint and varnish products without loss of quality.

American manufacturer Cannondale gained fame thanks to the very durable aluminum frames. A feature of these frames is that they are assembled by hand. If you purchase a bike in an official store, then a lifetime warranty is provided for it. To date, the brand produces over 150 models, among which there are many premium options.

Firm Merida which began its work in 1972, bypasses many competitors in terms of price - quality. Tales of this manufacturer were seen among the winners at various well-known competitions around the world. And among the models for downhill there are special women's bikes. Manufacturer Cube from Germany provides over 200 models of bicycle bikes. All of them are of high German quality, good aerodynamics, sturdy frames and light weight.

Downhill bikes need constant care. First of all, on a vehicle it is necessary to check the condition of bearings and lubrication on the main components. Before each trip, you should make sure that the tires are inflated, as well as adjust the steering wheel and saddle. Particular attention should be paid to the serviceability of the brakes. An important point is the adjustment of the rear and front suspensions, as well as checking the mounting of the connecting rods.

When replacing shock absorbers, gearshifts, braking systems, quality parts should be purchased. For example, you can give preference to details from the Japanese brand Shimano or American Sram.

According to experts, one should not install tubeless wheels on bicycle bikes for a downhill. Their cost is much higher, and on the route, if necessary, it will not be possible to seal a puncture.

About what newcomers need to know about downhill, see the next video.