How to choose an XC bike?

Bicycles have been present in our life since early childhood, but their functionality and design change with age. Those who are seriously into cycling can boast of their achievements on the mountain or racing version of this transport. Anyone can afford a cross-country bike.

This name has the form of cross-country mountain bike racing. The track contains natural and deliberate obstacles, steep ascents and long descents. The more difficult it is, the more interesting the process of passing.

To participate in the competition, you need to have good physical shape, experience, instant reaction and endurance, and also be sure to have an appropriate bike. Cross-country vehicles must be able to overcome:

• long, difficult climbs;
• dangerous descents;
• bends on bends;
• bumps, potholes, hillocks;
• sand, water, mud, stones;
• high-speed sections of the route;
• sections with the use of sharp braking.

In general, to be successful in this sport, you must have well trained and reliable, versatile bike.

Mountain bikes are suitable for cross country. Their main task is to travel over rough terrain. The special design distinguishes them from the usual walking bike.Special shock absorbers soften even the smallest bumps, reliable transmissions work in any bad weather, and disc brakes will never let you down.

Maneuverability and high maneuverability are ensured by a lightweight and durable frame. It is most often made of aluminum with variable cross-section or carbon. However, there are models with steel frames. This is not to say that they are bad, but this adds weight to them, affecting the mobility and strength of the base - a rigid triangle. It is on it that the whole structure rests.

The special structure of the frame assumes movement with an active forward tilt. In this position, the total body weight and load are evenly distributed over the arms and legs. An XC bike should have a front fork with approximately 10cm travel for high resistance and lockability... Although this part increases the acceleration of the bike, it becomes much easier to overcome obstacles.

Bicycle wheels should have lightweight and strong rims. Tires with ideal grip, 1.7-2 inches wide and light weight are the perfect choice for the beginner XC.

Since XC competition is associated with dangerous descents and other risk factors, head protection should not be forgotten.

Clipless pedals are the hallmark of a professional extreme cyclist from a simple amateur. Failure to unfasten the pedal retainer in time may cause injury in the event of an unsuccessful fall. This accessory is only used by experienced cyclists or on simple tracks.

Cross-country bicycles can be roughly divided into two groups: 2-suspension and hardtails. There is no clear opinion on which of them is the most manageable in off-road conditions. Each model has its own disadvantages and advantages.

Two-suspension has the following qualities:

• stability;
• off-road handling;
• more comfortable riding position;
• massive construction;
• Excellent double cushioning for a smooth ride.

The hardtail has the following features:

• lack of a rear shock absorber;
• suitable for driving on relatively flat roads;
• a rigid frame contributes to a quick set of speed;
• the possibility of negative effects on the spine due to excessive vibration;
• affordable price and service.

The totality of the lengths of all pipes and the angles between them is the geometry of the frame. It is she who sets the position on the bike and directly affects the technical characteristics of the transport. Pedals, switches, wheels, forks - all of these are certainly important, but not so much.

Cross-country beginners who choose transport for themselves often focus only on its size, without attaching importance to parameters such as frame proportions, angles or lengths of other tubes. To choose a comfortable bike, you need to focus on the level of difficulty of the track.

In general, attention should be paid to a number of aspects.

1. Steering column angle. It is preferable that it be as sharp as possible.
2. The length of the base of the structure. For good pavement, a short wheelbase will do. A long base is needed to overcome extreme tracks with difficult obstacles. It will create additional cushioning.
3. Front triangle... This is the distance between the seat, the handlebar and the corner of the upper frame. To handle rough terrain, longer than average is the best option.
4. Steering wheel... The position of the cyclist in the saddle depends on its length. Overcoming difficult sections of the path in a seated position will be problematic.Therefore, in order to transfer the center of gravity to the front of the bike, you will need to rise and focus on the handlebars. With a short stem, this will be much more convenient.
5. Short rear stays help to overcome obstacles easier by pulling the bike towards you.
6. For added protection against obstacles, the bottom bracket should be positioned higher than, for example, a road bike. Its distance from the ground should be such that it will allow optimal movement over rough terrain, without touching the obstacles being passed by the elements of the vehicle.

Extreme cycling competitions are held annually around the world. Based on their results, the priority level is determined. Let's take a look at the top 5 professional cross-country models according to the professionals.

1. Cannondale scalpel - the bike has practically no drawbacks, except for the high cost. Two-suspension model with integrated steering wheel, 29-inch wheels and 20 speed modes.
2. Scott Spark RC 900 - participant and winner of the most prestigious competitions. It has 2 suspensions, rotary brakes and 24 mm wheel rims.
3. BMC Fourstroke 01 ONE - Equipped with original Continental tires, distinguished by their durability. The advantage over rivals will be provided by 22 speeds and hydraulic brakes.
4. Cube Reaction C: 62 Race 29 - a relatively new, but already popular model. Permissible fork travel - 100 mm, hydraulic brake disc up to 180 mm diameter.
5. Forward Agris 27.5 2.0 disc - at a relatively low cost, it is equipped with components from well-known world manufacturers. For example, HardTail is a frame manufacturer, and Shimano's brake set never fails the owner.

First of all, you need to decide on which routes this type of transport will be used. Both the general staffing and specific details depend on this.

• Rubber. The current sizes are now 27, 5 and 29 inches.
• Frame. It should be lightweight and durable. Aluminum will be ideal for both womens and mens.
• Transmission. It is best if it is cassette - this will increase its service life.
• Front fork only with monolithic "pants" - no welding. The shock absorption lock button will be a nice and necessary bonus.
• Rims. Only double, otherwise the wheels will not last long.
• Speed ​​switches. It is not worth saving on them, since the functionality of the structure depends on their work.

If the choice fell on a well-known model, then you will have to fork out additionally.

The following video provides an overview of a cross-country racing bike for a reasonable price.