Mountain bikes: characteristics, device, dimensions and selection

If you are tired of driving around stadiums and city roads, and your soul wants real adrenaline, get a mountain bike. This transport easily overcomes the Russian off-road, it is not afraid of jumps, as well as pits and bumps that appear 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 find the optimal MTB.

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

There are many legends about the history of mountain biking. At least a dozen bicycle companies claim to be the first in the design and creation of MTB in their advertising posters. To clarify the question of who and when first invented the mountain bike, it is necessary to go back to the 70s of the last century.

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

Some athletes took to the rugged terrain for a dose of adrenaline, while others went to the mountains to simply break out of the hectic pace of life in metropolitan areas. However, the authorities soon imposed a ban on 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The braking system of the mountain bike has been repeatedly improved during its existence, outdated rim brake systems have been replaced by the most modern disc systems, which include:

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

Mountain bike wheels in accordance with the accepted standard can be 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 rather a rarity, but they are still in demand among teenagers and freestyle fans today.

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 session. So, for amateurs, a mountain bike at a price of $ 100-500 is fine, professional athletes will have to leave several thousand for their bike in the store. Due to its narrow specialization, the mountain bike has several characteristics that make this bike unique and different from all other types of cycling.

These features include primarily sturdy body made of extra strong metals. It assumes a special frame design that MTB has large mud clearances compared to other bike models.

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

The best suspension option for a mountain bike would be suspension for both wheels, only suspension for the front wheel is allowed... The stroke potential of such a device should be 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 shift type... The high level of transmission capacity results in good efficiency. Both of these parameters are directly dependent on each other. Typically an MTB transmission assumes a maximum capacity, at least 2/3 of which is spent on crawler gears. The steering wheel of a mountain bike should be well adjusted.

Mountain bike in the overwhelming majority of cases is equipped with disc brakes. This decision is quite reasonable: the design of the V-shaped brake (vibrake) does not create the conditions for ensuring the necessary stability of the braking movement on rough terrain, especially in adverse environmental conditions, even if the brake pads are selected correctly.

Mountain bikes differ in several ways.

The main thing that needs to be calculated when buying any bike model is the frame dimensions based on the user's height. The following parameters will help you navigate easier:

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

The mountain bike exceeds its road “brothers” in weight. The reason is the sturdier frame, as well as the shock absorbers. MTB weight varies from 7 to 25 kg, depending on the sport discipline and features of the bike configuration. So, the lightest models weighing less than 10 kg are usually classified as standard carbon bikes, but heavy weights weighing more than 13 kg are optimal for quick descent, as well as for exiting hills that are not intended for this.

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

• Steel - the most budgetary option. But despite the low cost, these bike frames have their advantages: they are durable, excellent vibration absorption, and repairing them is no problem. Among the disadvantages, one can single out the large weight, as well as the susceptibility of the material to corrosion.
• Chrome-molybdenum alloy - with a similar strength, it has a higher corrosion resistance and a slightly lower weight.
• Aluminum - such frames are more expensive than steel frames, but they are highly valued among users due to their long service life.
• Titanium - a bike like this can get quite expensive. However, titanium frames simply have no other disadvantages. These are lightweight, strong, functional and durable models that do not rust or deform.
• The most expensive option is carbon. Keep in mind, besides 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 optimal solution for those people who prefer off-road driving. Forested terrain, as well as a dirt road, difficult rocky areas - a cyclist can easily overcome road irregularities if he has MTB at his disposal. High carrying capacity and reliability of wheels, frame and the whole product as a whole allows riders to carry loads weighing up to 25-35 kg... That's why Mountain Bikes are optimal for hikers and long-distance bike riders.

Universal Mountain Bikes are general-purpose bikes. You can use them not only on forest ground and mountains, but also on highways, so such bikes are in demand for driving in urban areas. 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 road “colleague”;
• suspension maintenance for mountain bikes in urban areas will be higher than for touring bikes;
• driving on asphalt is less comfortable, as it requires much more energy and physical strength of the user.

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

Depending on the stiffness of the suspension, a distinction is made between:

• hardtail - assumes a rigid rear wheel suspension, usually equipped with a shock-absorbing fork;
• double-suspended - suppose a soft suspension of both wheels;
• rigids - the opposite of two-suspension, they have a rigid suspension of both wheels.

There are several types of MTB depending on the features of operation.

Mountain Bike of this kind are designed for active, but at the same time non-aggressive extreme driving on any off-road, including rocky sections of the path... 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. In addition to the shock-absorbed fork, there is additionally a rear suspension - it is necessary to cushion the shocks and strong vibrations that invariably accompany off-road trips. 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 weight of the products varies between 13-16 kg.

Pros:

• a large number of speed modes;
• good cross-country ability;
• strong, but at the same time lightweight frame;
• ultra-reliable braking mechanism;
• soft travel provided by two suspensions.

Minuses:

• high price;
• the bike is not suitable for aggressive riding and cycling.

These include the most popular Mountain Bike models, which Optimal for both fast driving on flat roads and aggressive riding on rocky terrain. The XC design uses lightweight hardtail frames with reliable shock absorption at the front wheel forks. These MTBs usually have a wide and coarse tread pattern, due to which the bikes move well in mud, as well as loose soil.

Pros:

• large and very tenacious wheels;
• the model is universal - it allows you to drive both on a dirt road and in urban areas;
• a large number of speed modes;
• small weight;
• the front suspension effectively cushions impacts in the event of a collision with obstacles;
• the cost is much lower than that of many other varieties.

Like ATVs, downhill bikes are two-suspension. Only these products are much heavier, because specially designed for fast descents on rocky terrain. The weight of these Mountain Bikes is 15-25 kg. They are characterized by the longest fork travel. The number of high-speed gears is not more than 10, the wheels are made in a standard design - 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 braking system;
• on the descent, the bike develops high speed.

Minuses:

• impressive weight;
• unsuitable for riding on smooth roads, as they take too much force while pedaling;
• very high price.

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

• suitable exclusively for stunt driving;
• no depreciation.

These bikes can be safely attributed to MTB for city limits. Their design consists of a simplified drivetrain, and the frame configuration provides the rider with a fairly comfortable fit.In off-road conditions, this model becomes the most popular. Most often these are hardtails, which are a bit like those that are bought for cross-country., but at the same time have a lower cost.

Pros:

• sturdy but small frame;
• comfortable fork shock absorption;
• a good set of gears, due to which Mountain Bike takes up inclines with ease;
• relatively low cost compared to other MTBs.

Minuses:

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

Every year the number of mountain bike brands is only increasing. Renowned manufacturers such as BMW and Stinger offer models at a very impressive cost, charging a decent markup for their brand. But as practice shows, When choosing MTB, it is not always necessary to follow the principle “the more expensive, the better”, many companies offer good models.

For all cycling enthusiasts who are not looking for compromise solutions and at the same time have unlimited financial capabilities, we suggest choosing products from the American company Specialized. Its name translates as "passionate." The brand was founded by Mike Sinyard, the company began its activities in the 70s of the last century. MTBs from this manufacturer are optimal for those who are completely passionate about cycling.

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

Specialized bicycles can be purchased exclusively from specialized dealers, their price is quite high.... If you don’t have enough budget to buy Specialized bikes, you can look at other well-known brands. For example, American brand Scott or Czech Author. They make quality and practical bikes at an affordable price.

The Scott company is recognized as one of the most promising mountain bikes on the market, although it began its activity with the production of alpine skis. 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 durability, which is explained by the introduction of the most technologically advanced 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, the Scott company moved to Switzerland and today operates on two continents at once. The firm sponsors over 10 professional cross-country cycling teams, as well as trial and downhill cycling teams.

Author presents bicycles with an optimal price-quality ratio. The Czech brand has gained worldwide fame thanks to the high quality of the MTB produced in combination with a rather modest price. The range of mountain bikes from this manufacturer is quite wide, so everyone can find a suitable model for their liking: here are professional, semi-professional and amateur options.

Author cooperates with major national institutes, as well as world-famous cyclists - this tandem has made it possible to develop the highest quality and original bicycle models.

Among the entry-level bicycles are Horst products. This company specializes in budget beginner mountain bikes and cycling 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 the markets and in hypermarkets, they are even called "auchan bikes". These MTBs break down quickly and often cause injury to the user.

Obviously, the range 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 a wide variety of configurations: on alloy wheels, with a planetary hub, with a motor and a trunk, They may differ in the width of the steering wheel and overall dimensions. There are adult and teenage models, folding and hybrids. MTBs of different types look different, respectively, the description of their technical and operational parameters is different.

The first thing to start with is to decide in what technique you will ride. If you are going to ride 20-40 kilometers in a forest belt every weekend, you better get an XC bike - it's perfect for such conditions. Models of hardtail and short-stroke bicycles downhill are designed exclusively for descents from mountainous and hilly slopes on special equipped trails - they are not adapted for anything else.

Street / dirt. Of course, these styles are far from mountain biking, but bicycles are still considered MTB. The features of the operation 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 steps, as well as curbs, spans and at the same time perform all kinds of turns and other techniques.

Enduro - This Mountain Bike is a cross between Downhill and XC... Accordingly, the route that is optimal for such a bike is also something in between, so the endurer can ride a long ascent for a quarter of an hour, and then descend from the opposite side of the hill for the next 20 minutes. These models are referred to as universal.

The second factor to look out for is the diameter of the wheels. The larger its diameter, the better 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 twisty tracks, wheels of the minimum diameter 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 the maintenance of your bike. For example, disc hydraulics are considered less problematic than traditional rim brakes and are much easier to maintain. Give preference to MTB with high-quality shifters and derailleurs - these elements will serve you for a long time, and during the entire period of operation, their settings will not go astray.

Get a good fork versus an elastomer - you can always adjust it to your physical characteristics, and it will effectively help you in overcoming obstacles on the way.

Well, the last factor is budget for buying a mountain bike... Of course, you can try to save money and buy a cheap model with the most common hitch, but it is possible that as a result you will have to spend a lot more money on replacing broken parts. Thus, the total cost will turn out to be much higher than the amount that you originally intended to invest. Experts recommend purchasing Mountain Bike in the middle price range.

Summarizing the above, we can say: so that after purchasing a mountain bike you will not receive an “exhibit” for your pantry, but a desired and necessary thing, when choosing a model you need to focus on your personal preferences in riding. Mountain Bike should be sized according to your height, arm / leg length and shoulder width.

How to choose a mountain bike up to 20,000 rubles, see the next video.