Mountain Bikes, Wheels, and Parts
Welcome to dirtdreams.com. Our site is dedicated to finding and sharing the latest information about mountain bikes and mountain bike equipment. The content of this Website is written strictly for informational purposes. We do not support or endorse any particular brand or product.
The fist version of a mountain bike was created in the 1970’s in California. It was a modified version a cruiser bicycle and was used for freewheeling down mountain trails. Towards the end of the 1970’s and into the early 1980’s, road bike companies began manufacturing mountain bikes using technologically advanced light weight materials, like what road bikes were being made of at the time. The popularity of mountain bikes grew steadily until the 1990’s, where it took off as a mainstream activity and sport, and remains so today.
Mountain bike parts are made to handle all sorts of terrains and conditions. Although they are designed for use in the mountains, many urban and road riders prefer them for when bad road conditions, gravel or pot holes are encountered. Unlike road and cruiser bikes, mountain bikers are not limited by rough terrains and bad road conditions. Mountain bikers can virtually go anywhere they want to. This means you can take your bike camping, and go explore. Just dont forget the camping gear!
Mountain bike racers and competitors have a variety of different events to choose from. Different races include: cross-country races, which are usually around 30 miles and cover various terrains; endurance racing, which are 70 plus miles and are usually a very steep climb; downhill racing, where racers fly down hills at insane speeds to see who can get the best time; dirt jumping, which is similar to BMX biking and is less like a race, but more of competition to see who can perform the most impressive jumps; and lastly, bike trails where riders ride through extremely difficult terrain and don’t touch their feet to the ground.
Most who enjoy mountain biking do it as a fun form of exercise or leisurely activity. If you are interested in getting a mountain bike there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First of all, determine the price you wish to spend and what you plan on using it for. Mountain bikes can cost anywhere from $200 to $10,000, and generally speaking you will get what you pay for. Plan on spending around $1300 for a good beginner bike. If you want nicer components plan on spending a little bit more. Bikes from three to five thousand are for serious mountain bikers or pro’s, these have all the top of the line components, are the most durable and the lightest.
There are five different types of mountain bikes. Cross Country (XC) bikes are designed to cover different terrains, are light weight and great for riding long distances and steep hills, but not as good for really rough terrain. Trail bikes (all-mountain) are a good all-around bike. They can handle rough terrain pretty well and are decent for long distances and going up hills. Downhill (DH) bikes are built for going down hills as fast as possible, but not so good for climbing the hills. They can handle very rough trails. Free ride (FR) bikes are designed for big, rough trails with lots of places to try stunts. They aren’t the best for climbing, but will get the job done. The last and least common mountain bike, trial bikes, are not suited for most riders. They are specifically designed for the purpose climbing up and over stationary obstacles.
There are also a number of specific parts that come in many different options. You will have to choose between hardtail or full-suspension bikes, disc or regular breaks, what type of fork and rear derailleur you want, what size of wheels will work best for what you plan to do, and much more. Women must also chose between a regular mountain bike and a mountain bike designed for women. There isn’t much different between the two, except for the fit. It is also important to get the right equipment and gear such as helmets, water bottles, bike computers, small pumps, spare tires and quick repair or tool kits. If you are a skateboarder, skateboard decks and accessories can be purchased online also. Check out Skatestreet.com
The pages and links of this Website will explore in greater depth the different parts and components you will need to know about when mountain biking. Thanks for reading. Happy trails.
Mountain Bikes | Wheels | Learning Center | Site Map | Links | Contact | Home
Copyright © 2008