Mountain bikes: characteristic, device, sizes and choice

If you are tired of driving through stadiums and city roads, and your soul wants real adrenaline, get a mountain bike. This transport easily overcomes Russian impassability, it is not afraid of jumps, as well as pits and bumps that arise on the way. The range of mountain bikes is so wide and varied that it is not easy to decide on the selection of a suitable model. In order to simplify this task, we have prepared a short review, we hope it will help you choose the best MTB.

Mountain bike is a real men's two-wheeled bicycle designed for riding in the off-road zone, in rugged mountainous terrain with a difficult rocky surface. At the same time, one should not think that the Mountain Bike is highly specialized, on the contrary, in the city, a similar model will also be convenient and safe to use.

There are many legends about the history of the mountain bike. At least a dozen companies producing bicycles in their advertising posters attribute themselves to the palm in the development and creation of MTB. To clarify the issue of who and when first came up with the mountain bike, it is necessary to return to the 70s of the last century.

It is known that at this time in the United States there was a peak in bicycle enthusiasm. One of the main centers of cycling has become the sunny Pacific coast in California. At that time, a large number of competitions of various levels were held - in most cases, these were bike races along the highway.Around the same period in California, riding in the mountains gained popularity, not only on bikes, but also on motorcycles.

Some athletes climbed over rough terrain for a dose of adrenaline, while others rode into the mountains just to break free from the frantic rhythm of life in megacities. However, the authorities soon banned off-road driving on motor vehicles. It is believed that this was the impetus for the active use of bikes when riding in the mountains.

The mountain bike brake system has been improved many times over, outdated rim brake systems have been replaced by the most modern disk systems, which include:

• mechanical - contribute to the creation of enhanced transmission by means of traction cable;
• hydraulic - their design provides a hydraulic line filled with brake fluid.

Mountain bike wheels in accordance with the accepted standard can have a size of 24 or 26 inches, some time ago, wheels with a parameter of 27.5 inches appeared, as well as 29 inches - they were called "niners." After the advent and widespread use of new technologies, 24-inch wheels became more likely a rarity, however, to this day they are in demand among adolescents and freestyle enthusiasts.

The cost of MTB varies from $ 100 to $ 10,000, the choice of model depends on the degree of preparation and the purpose of the classes. So, for lovers, a mountain bike at a price of $ 100-500 is quite suitable, professional athletes will have to leave several thousand for their bike in the store. Due to its narrowly specialized specialization, a mountain bike has several characteristic features that make this bike unique and different from all other types of cycling.

These features include primarily Strong case made of especially strong metals. It implies a special frame design, which MTB has large dirt gaps in comparison with other bicycle models.

Volumetric tires equipped with a tread structure. In most cases, they have either an off-road or a mixed pattern. Such protection of the inner surface of the tire prevents adverse external influences. For skiing in the mountains, off-road treads with high-quality lugs and an increased arrangement of the pattern will be the best option.

The best option for a mountain bike suspension will be suspension for both wheels, only the front wheel suspension is allowed. The stroke potential of such a device should be from 80 mm or more. These parameters are largely influenced by the basic configuration and design features of each individual model.

The power train is usually engaged with an external gear shift.. A high level of transmission capacity leads to good efficiency. Both of these parameters are directly dependent on each other. Typically, an MTB transmission has a maximum capacity of at least 2/3 of which is spent on downshifts. The steering wheel of a mountain bike must be well calibrated.

The mountain bike is overwhelmingly equipped disc brakes. This solution is quite reasonable: the design of the v-shaped brake (vibrajack) does not create the conditions for ensuring the necessary stability of the braking course on rough terrain, especially in adverse environmental conditions, even if the brake pads are selected correctly.

Mountain bikes vary in several ways.

The main thing that needs to be calculated when buying any model of bicycle is the dimensions of the frame based on the growth of the user. The given parameters will help you to navigate easier:

• XS - frames up to 14 inches (corresponding to 35 cm) are intended for children with a height of 130-155 cm;
• S - frames with a parameter of 16 inches (corresponding to 40.6 cm) are optimal for riders with a height of 155-160 cm;
• M - 18-inch frame (corresponds to 45.7 cm) will be a good choice for the user 165-175 cm;
• L - a 20-inch model (corresponding to 50.8 cm) is chosen by tall riders 170-185 cm;
• XL - 22 inches (corresponding to 55.8 cm) are optimal for tall users with a height of 185 cm;
• XXL - 24-inch frames (corresponding to 61 cm) are suitable for men whose height exceeds 190 cm.

Mountain bike exceeds its highway “brothers” in mass. The reason is a sturdier frame, as well as shock absorbers. MTB weight varies from 7 to 25 kg, depending on the sporting discipline and the features of the bike. So, the lightest models weighing less than 10 kg are usually classified as standard carbon bikes, but heavyweights weighing more than 13 kg are optimal for fast descent, as well as for driving off elevations not intended for this.

One of the basic characteristics on which the period of use and the functionality of the frame, as well as the cost of Mountain Bike, is considered the material from which it is made. Modern manufacturers offer several options to choose from.

• Steel - the most budget option. But despite the low cost, these bicycle frames have their advantages: they are durable, perfectly absorb vibration, and their repair does not present any problems. Among the disadvantages, one can single out a large weight, as well as susceptibility of the material to corrosion.
• Chromium Molybdenum Alloy - with similar strength, it has a higher resistance to corrosion and a slightly lower weight.
• Aluminum - such frames are more expensive than steel, but are very appreciated among users due to the long term of use.
• Titanium - A similar bike can be quite an expensive pleasure. However, titanium frames simply do not have any other drawbacks. These are light, strong, functional and durable models that do not rust and do not deform.
• The most expensive option is carbon. Keep in mind, in addition to expensive and high-quality carbon frames, there are also cheap options on the market, their quality is somewhere in the middle between steel and aluminum.

Mountain bikes will be the best solution for those people who prefer off-road driving. Forest terrain, as well as dirt roads, complex rocky sections - a cyclist can easily overcome the roughness of the road if he has MTB at his disposal. The high carrying capacity and reliability of the wheels, frame and the whole product as a whole allows riders to carry loads weighing up to 25-35 kg. That is why Mountain Bike is ideal for tourists and lovers of long cycling trips.

Universal Mountain Bike belong to the bikes of general functionality. You can move on them not only on forest soil and mountains, but also on highways, so such bikes are in demand for driving in the city. However, it is advisable to refuse such trips, and there are several reasons for this:

• the speed of movement of MTB on asphalt will be significantly inferior to its highway “colleague”;
• suspension service for mountain bikes in the city will be higher than for tourist bicycles;
• driving on asphalt is less comfortable, as it requires significantly more energy and physical effort of the user.

MTB is available in a wide variety of options, the range of Mountain Bike is diverse and wide. They can be classified for a variety of reasons.

Depending on the stiffness of the suspension, there are:

• hardtail - assumes a stiffer suspension of the rear wheel, usually equipped with a suspension fork;
• double pendant - suggest soft suspension of both wheels;
• rigids - the opposite of two-suspension, have a rigid suspension of both wheels.

Several types of MTB are distinguished depending on the operating conditions.

Mountain bike of this kind are designed for active, but at the same time non-aggressive extreme driving on any terrain, including rocky sections of the road. In mountain bikes of this type, the frame is made of an alloy of aluminum or steel, a little less often they are made of carbon fiber. In addition to the shock-absorbed forks, the rear suspension is additionally provided here - it is necessary to mitigate the blows and strong vibrations that invariably accompany off-road driving. Wheel dimensions are standard for this type of MTB and are 26-28 inches. The brakes are as reliable as possible, usually hydraulics are used. The mass of products varies between 13-16 kg.

Pros:

• a large number of speed modes;
• good cross;
• strong, but at the same time lightweight frame;
• super reliable brake mechanism;
• soft ride provided by two suspensions.

Minuses:

• high price;
• the bike is unsuitable for aggressive riding and cycling.

These include the most popular Mountain Bike models, which optimal for both fast driving on a flat road, and for aggressive riding on rocky terrain. The cross-country bike scheme involves the use of lightweight hardtail frames with reliable cushioning on the front wheel forks. Such MTBs usually have a wide and large tread pattern, due to which the bikes move perfectly in the mud, as well as in loose ground.

Pros:

• large and very tenacious wheels;
• the model is universal - allows you to ride both on a dirt road, and in the city;
• a large number of speed modes;
• light weight;
• front suspension effectively mitigates shock in the event of a collision with obstacles;
• the cost is much lower than many other varieties.

Like all-terrain vehicles, downhill bikes are dual-suspension. Only these products are much heavier because Designed specifically for rapid descents on rocky ground. The weight of such Mountain Bike is 15-25 kg. They are characterized by the greatest stroke of the fork. The number of high-speed gears is not more than 10, the wheels are made in a standard version - 26 inches.

Pros:

• the wheels are quite massive in order to overcome all the difficulties of the track in the mountains, but at the same time they are characterized by increased maneuverability;
• effective brake system;
• on the descent, the bike develops great speed.

Minuses:

• impressive weight;
• unsuitable for riding on a smooth road, as they take too much power during pedaling;
• very high price.

This includes exclusively stunt bikes with a lightweight but sturdy frame. - as a rule, it is made of aluminum. The model involves a removable seat or does without it at all. They are used only for one sports discipline - trial, that is, overcoming various kinds of obstacles on a bike without touching the road with your feet. In such models, speed modes and depreciation are not provided. Wheels over 20 inches - this significantly increases their maneuverability.

Pros:

• optimal for tricks;
• low weight - about 7 kilograms;
• high strength due to the reinforced frame;
• compactness and maneuverability;
• relatively low price.

Minuses:

• suitable exclusively for stunt driving;
• no depreciation.

Such bikes can be safely attributed to MTB for city line. Their scheme consists of a simplified transmission, and the configuration of the frame makes the rider a pretty comfortable fit.In off-road conditions, this model becomes the most popular. Most often, these are hardtails that look a bit like those you buy for cross countrybut at the same time have a lower cost.

Pros:

• strong, but small-sized frame;
• convenient depreciation of a fork;
• a good set of gears, due to which the Mountain Bike easily takes the climbs;
• relatively low cost compared to other MTBs.

Minuses:

• unsuitable for use in professional sports;
• often the manufacturer equips the products with a cheap tourist or pleasure transmission;
• the vast majority of the models on the market are equipped with rim brakes.

Every year the number of brands that are engaged in mountain bike production is only increasing. Well-known manufacturers such as BMW and Stinger offer models at very impressive prices, taking a decent mark-up for their brand. But as practice shows, when choosing MTB, it is far from always necessary to follow the principle “the more expensive, the better”, many companies offer good models.

For all lovers of cycling who are not looking for compromise solutions and at the same time have unlimited financial possibilities, we suggest staying on the products of the American company Specialized. Her name translates as "passionate." The brand was founded by Mike Sinyardom, the company began its activities in the 70s of the last century. MTB of this manufacturer is optimal for those people who are completely passionate about cycling.

For example, the branded shock absorbers that all Specialized mountain bikes are equipped with are made using a unique technology that allows you to automatically adjust the stiffness of the shock absorbers depending on the characteristics of the road surface. So, on smooth roads, the shock absorber takes on rigid forms, and on bumps, depreciation begins to work at full capacity.

Specialized bikes can only be purchased at specialist retailers, and their price is quite high.. If you don’t have enough budget for buying Specialized bikes, you can look at other well-known brands. For instance, American brand Scott or Czech Author. They produce quality and practical bikes at an affordable price.

Scott is recognized as one of the most promising mountain bike manufacturers in the market, although it began its activity with the production of skiing. Nowadays the release of Mountain Bike for the company is a relatively new direction, nevertheless it is developing at the highest level. Products of this brand are distinguished by increased strength, which is explained by the introduction of the most technological solutions in the production process and careful control over the quality of products.

The manufacturer declares that during normal operation of the products, the appearance of cracks at the joints of the frame is completely excluded, but even if this happens, the company promises a refund or a complete replacement of the frame.

In the 80s of the last century, Scott moved to Switzerland and nowadays operates on two continents at once. The company sponsors over 10 professional cross-country cycling teams, as well as trial and downhill teams.

Author Introduces Bicycles with an optimum ratio price - quality. The Czech brand has gained worldwide fame due to the high quality of MTB products combined with a rather modest price. The range of mountain bikes of this manufacturer is quite wide, so everyone can find a suitable model to their liking: professional, semi-professional, and amateur options are presented here.

Author collaborates with major national institutes, as well as world-famous cyclists - this tandem allowed us to develop the most high-quality and original models of bicycles.

Among entry-level bikes, Horst products can be distinguished. This company specializes in the production of budget mountain bikes for beginners and bicycle accessories. Among their models, you can choose a good one for a very affordable price.

The choice is great the main thing is not to buy bikes from unknown Chinese manufacturers, which are sold in markets and in hypermarkets, they are even called “Auchan bikes”. Such MTBs break quickly and often lead to injury to the user.

Obviously, the assortment of models is large, which means that it is very difficult for a novice user to make the right choice that meets the operating conditions and personal preferences. Manufacturers offer a wide selection of different configurations: on alloy wheels, with a planetary hub, with a motor and a trunk. They can differ in steering wheel width and overall dimensions. There are adult and teenage models, folding and hybrids. Different types of MTBs look different, respectively, and the description of their technical and operational parameters is different.

The first thing to start with is to decide which technique you will ride in. If you intend to ride 20-40 kilometers in the forest belt every weekend, you better pick up a bike for cross-country - it is ideal for such operating conditions. Hardtail models and short-speed downhill bicycles are designed exclusively for descents from mountain and hilly slopes along specially equipped tracks - they are no longer suitable for anything.

Street / Dirt. Of course, these styles are far from mountain cycling, nevertheless, bicycles are still ranked as MTB. Operational features of such bikes follow from their name. So, models from the street category allow you to do tricks on bikes on the streets of a metropolis: users jump off stairs, as well as curbs, spans, and at the same time perform all kinds of turns and other tricks.

Enduro - This Mountain Bike is a cross between a downhill and a cross country. Accordingly, the track that is optimal for such a bike is also something in between, so the enduro can go for a long hour in a long climb, and for the next 20 minutes go down from the back of the hill. These models are universal.

The second factor to pay attention to is the diameter of the wheels. The larger its diameter, the better the stability, at the same time the more difficult it will be for you to turn it. Therefore, if you intend to get a nimble bike that will allow you to overcome winding tracks - the minimum diameter wheels should be your choice. If you need speed, get a bike with big wheels.

Pay special attention to the hitch: the more equipped it is, the less difficulties you will experience in the future with servicing your bike. For example, disc hydraulics are considered less problematic than traditional rim brakes; it is much easier to maintain. Prefer MTB with high-quality shifters and switches - these elements will last you a long time, while during the entire period of operation their settings will not go wrong.

Get a good fork as opposed to elastomeric - you can always customize it to your physical characteristics, and it will effectively help you in overcoming the obstacles that arise on the way.

Well, the last factor is mountain bike purchase budget. Of course, you can try to save money and buy a cheap model with the most ordinary hitch, but it is possible that as a result you will have to spend much more money on replacing broken parts. Thus, the total costs will be much larger than the amount that you were planning to invest initially. Experts recommend purchasing a Mountain Bike in the middle price category.

Summarizing the foregoing, we can say: so that after acquiring a mountain bike you get not an “exhibit” for your pantry, but a desired and necessary thing, when choosing a model, you need to focus on your personal riding preferences. Mountain Bike should be chosen according to your height, as well as the length of your arms / legs and shoulder width.

See how to choose a mountain bike up to 20,000 rubles in the next video.