If flowy trails are calling this summer but you don't have a mountain bike to ride, this one's for you. Choosing a great mountain bike doesn't need to be overly technical, especially if you're just getting into it. But the right bike can make a difference in how much you enjoy the ride. Knowing the basics can help cut through the noise to find a MTB that matches your goals and budget.

Frame Material Selection

Mountain bike frames can range from really light to rather heavy. Carbon fiber is super light and stiff, making it great for racing. It also comes with a heftier price tag. Steel is your heaviest option, but people love riding steel hardtail mountain bikes because it gives you a soft but sturdy ride. If you're looking for bicycle sales online, you can get a great lightweight aluminum bike without the hefty price. Aluminum is sturdy but not nearly as heavy as steel. A high-performance aluminum frame offers great bang for your buck.

Suspension Setup

Suspension on the bike is like a shock absorber, which makes a significant difference in your comfort, especially when the trail gets bumpy. Hardtail bikes come with front suspension only and are generally more affordable, lighter, and easier to maintain. They're a great all-around bicycle and are perfect for smoother trails or cross-country riding. If you could have just one bike, a hardtail might be it! Full suspension bikes have suspension in the front and back and offer better shock absorption on rougher, technical trails, but they're usually more expensive. Think about the kind of terrain you'll tackle most often before your purchase.

Wheel Size and Tires

Modern mountain bikes mostly use 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels, although some still like to keep it old school with 26-inch wheels (great for smaller riders or juniors, too!). Larger wheels roll over rocks more easily and maintain momentum, while smaller wheels are more agile and better for tight trails. Tire width also plays a role, with wider tires providing more grip and cushion, which is helpful for beginners and rugged trails alike.

Drivetrain and Gearing

The drivetrain propels you forward when you turn over the pedals and includes the crankset, chain, chainrings, derailleur, and shifters. There are a few different drivetrain setups, including a 1x drivetrain that uses a single chainring. This is a light, simple setup that may be easier to shift and maintain. A 2x chainring is also still used and offers a wider gear range.

Comfortable Fit and Feel

No matter how flashy the specs, if the bike doesn't fit you properly, it's not going to be a fun ride. Make sure the frame size suits your height, and adjust the saddle and handlebars as needed. When in doubt, ask a local bike shop or an online store with excellent customer service to help guide you through the bike manufacturer's specs.

Smart Shopping Tip: Go After Great Value

Don't overlook the value in discount bikes when buying your first mountain bike, and don't be afraid to go through an online factory-direct company to cut out the middleman. You can often find last season's models and clearance deals on great, brand-new bikes with quality frames and components for much less than retail prices.

About Mendham Bicycle Co.

With summer coming in hot, now's the perfect time to get a great deal on a new bike from Mendham Bicycle Co. You can save a ton with their factory-direct pricing as Mendham Bicycle Co. partners with select manufacturers and passes the savings on to you. You can't beat the prices on high-quality bikes from Mendham Bicycle Co., especially with the Mendham Bicycle Co. Best Price Guarantee. (But if you do manage to find a legitimate listing for the same bike at a lower price, Mendham Bicycle Co. will match it.) Hop on a new beach cruiser, road bike, or mountain bike, or purchase discount electric bikes just in time for summer. They also carry a great selection of kids' bicycles and BMX bikes. Shop for your perfect bike and get free shipping to the contiguous U.S.

Enjoy the flow on a new MTB from Mendham Bicycle Co. at https://mendhambikes.com/

Original Source: https://bit.ly/4mr5Rga