5 Types of Mountain Bikes
Just in case you don’t already know, there are different types of mountain bikes.
The difference in their looks doesn’t mean it’s just a matter of design. Where and how you ride your mountain bike explains the difference.
Choosing the right bike for your purpose is very important.
Here are the different types of mountain bikes:
1. Cross Country or XC Mountain Bikes
This is the most common type of mountain bike you see in bike shops.
Riding cross country means you’ll be riding long hours, but the trail will be fairly easy.
You won’t encounter many obstacles. But you’ll go up and down the mountain many times. So you need a bike that’s light.
Cross country mountain bikes are easy to maneuver and not heavy.
2. All Mountain or Enduro Mountain Bikes
All mountain biking involves a challenging terrain. You’ll be riding through the mountains through rocks, wild plants, and uneven terrain.
This requires a sturdy bike. Expect this type of bike to have more travel in the suspension to withstand the rigorous action. It also has a stronger frame.
Bike enthusiasts say it is much like cross country mountain bikes except that it’s stronger. It is built to endure the jumps and drops through the mountain’s landscape.
Other important features to look for in an all mountain bike are guide chains and a tilted head.
3. Downhill Mountain Bikes
For riding downhill, you need a bike built for speed and rough terrains.
If you are in for the thrill of downhill biking, your bike should be able to keep up with the speed and pressure of descending a mountain in full speed.
They have wider tires with wider rims. Downhill mountain bikes have disc brakes, chain guard, full suspension setups, and coil shocks to handle rough descent.
Downhill mountain bikes are not ridden going up the mountain. They will give you a hard time. They are specifically meant for riding downhill.
Mountain bikers either walk their bikes going up the trail. Or they ride a vehicle to bring them there.
4. Freeride Mountain Bikes
Freeride mountain bikes are a combination of cross country mountain bikes and downhill mountain bikes.
They are made simple and without the heavy frame so bikers can easily maneuver it for a variety of tricks and stunts.
If you want a bike that can be used for riding both uphill and downhill, a freeride mountain bike is the one for you. They have full suspension systems to handle the drop.
5. Dirt Jump Mountain Bikes
This is the bike for you if you want to do aerial stunts.
Some say they are a mix of freeride mountain bikes and BMX bikes.
They are lightweight and they only have one brake so you can easily maneuver them to do aerial stunts and control the speed.
Usually, their suspension is only in the front. Other features you can expect from dirt jump mountain bikes include over sized handlebars, small frames, and low seats.
Other dirt jump mountain bikes have more special features depending on your skill level.