Mountain bikes, or MTBs, are robust machines built to handle harsh weather, rough terrains and varying altitudes. This article is meant to be a brief introduction on MTBs, their parts, and how to buy one.ย
Components of Mountain Bikes
The major parts of MTBs include the frame, suspension, brakes, gears, wheels and tyres, and the drivetrain. We will explore each of these in detail below. Gaining insight into an MTBโs parts will help you make more informed choices when buying your own MTB.
1.ย ย ย Frame
The frame is the central structure of the bike, dictating the layout of all the other parts. Steel, alloys and aluminium are used for entry-to-mid level bikes, while carbon fibre is mainly used for advanced premium ones. Cambio Bike makes their MTB frames primarily out of high-quality aluminium. An MTB frame will have a wider wheelbase and a slacker headtube angle for traction and handling purposes.
2.ย ย ย Suspension
A suspension mountain bike has two MTB suspension types. It either has front suspension, supporting just the front wheel, or full suspension, supporting both wheels. Most mountain bikes with suspension have front suspension for easier trails, while a full suspension MTB is usually found on higher altitudes and harsher turfs. Choose a bicycle suspension type based on your riding preferences. MTB suspension setup means to adjust the suspension system to absorb shocks and bumps properly, while MTB suspension tuning involves turning the suspension adjuster anti-clockwise for a softer feel on rough trails, and clockwise for a firmer response. Keep the trail in mind when adjusting, whether itโs an MTB front suspension or an MTB bike full suspension.
3.ย ย ย Brakes
You will either find V-brakes or disc brakes on MTBs. Modern MTBs regularly come with disc brakes for their added stopping power and efficiency. The disc rotor at the rear wheel gets activated by the brake lever to stop the bike.ย
4.ย ย ย Gears
Gear systems on MTBs consist of one gear at the front and a wide-range cassette with multiple gears at the rear. Modern MTBs have 12 gears.
5.ย ย ย Drivetrain
The drivetrain contains the entire gear system and propels your bike forward as you pedal. Most riders prefer a 12-gear configuration, called a 1x drivetrain, for better durability and chain retention.
6.ย ย ย Wheels and Tyres
MTBs have thick tyres and wheel rims for off-roading. Rim width ranges between 65 mm and 100 mm, and tyre width ranges between 3.5โ and 5โ. The tyre knobs are also bigger and deeper for better traction and stability on loose terrains.ย
Buying an MTB
Certain factors will need to be considered when buying your first MTB Bike. Your experience level, riding preference and budget will primarily determine the type of MTB you buy.
1.ย ย ย Experience Level
If you are a beginner, then a quality entry-level bike will suit you just fine. As your experience grows, you will be more comfortable moving on to more advanced bikes.ย
2.ย ย ย Riding Preference
Different MTBs cater to different styles of riding, like cross-country, steep hill descent, and mountain riding. Depending on your preferences, you have a wide spectrum of choices of MTBs to pick from.
3.ย ย ย Budget
Create a budget within which you will shortlist your choices of MTBs. A budget is not just about financial responsibility; it will also streamline your options, making it easier to choose an MTB.ย
MTBs are quite different from regular city bikes due to their specific construction that requires more traction and greater handling instead of speed, to provide safety and stability for riders. If you plan to buy one, then understanding their components and how they differ from other types of bikes is important.
