What to Consider When Buying a Mountain Bike

Architectural engineer John P. Stoppi is also a licensed building inspector. He serves as principal engineer of Stoppi Engineering and the chief code consultant at Saturn Inspection Agency, both in Wernersville, outside of Philadelphia. In his free time, John P. Stoppi enjoys both mountain and road cycling.

Buying a new mountain bike requires considerations before the purchase decision. The first factor should be the type of mountain biking you will be practicing: cross-country, trail, all-mountain, or downhill biking. Different types of mountain bikes handle these terrains.

Another factor to consider are the wheels. While 26-inch diameter wheels used to be the standard, they have now been replaced by 27.5-inch and 29-inch diameter inches wheels. With 29 inches, the mountain bike moves faster, but it is more difficult to handle than the 27.5 inches in difficult terrains and obstacles.

Bike suspension is another factor as there are two types: hardtail suspension with only a frontal suspension and full suspension with both frontal and rear suspensions. The full suspension can take more punishment than the hardtail suspension but is more difficult to pedal.

The frame material of the bike is also important. Bikes with aluminum alloy frames cost less and are more durable, but weigh more. Carbon fiber frame bikes are lighter but more expensive.