Last Updated on December 28, 2022 by ghisellerousso
Mountain biking is a fun, adventurous sport that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy. It’s also a great way to stay active, get outside and enjoy nature.
Mountain bikes are available in many shapes and sizes, but it’s important to know what features matter most when buying your first bike. In this guide, we’ll discuss the different types of mountain bikes and why you might want one over another based on your riding style or budget.
Types Of Mountain Bikes
A hardtail mountain bike falls among the best electric mountain bikes with an aluminum frame attached directly to the seat post, with no suspension components (like forks or shocks) added. Hardtails are typically lighter than their full-suspension counterparts because they don’t have any front suspension components and rely on the rear wheel for most of their support.
On the other hand, full suspensions tend to be heavier since they often include more metal in their frames, plus hydraulic or air shocks, which help dampen bumps and vibrations from rough terrain.
Also, there are electric mountain bikes. The best electric mountain bikes are perfect for those who want the freedom of riding without worrying about how long it will take them to get home or how far they need to go. With its powerful motor and lightweight frame, this electric bike can handle whatever Mother Nature throws!
Bike Sizing
To properly size your bike, you should consider the following:
- The riding you plan to do. A small frame is probably best if you’re a casual rider and want something comfortable and easy on your wallet. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced mountain biker who regularly rides in rough terrain with large groups of friends, then more robust components are needed (like beefy tires) as best electric mountain bikes.
- Your height and weight. This may seem obvious, but it’s worth saying anyway! Different bikes have different names for specific sizes based on their intended use—it pays to know what they mean before buying one that doesn’t fit right out of the box.
Bike Wheel Size
The size of your mountain bike’s wheels is crucial to how well it performs. The larger the wheel, the faster you can roll over obstacles and climb steep hills, and you can consider those bikes the best electric mountain bikes. The smaller the wheel, on the other hand, makes for an agile ride that allows you to maneuver easily through tight spaces or around obstacles without taking too much energy out of your legs.
Wheel Width
If you’re seeking the best electric mountain bikes, you should first figure out how wide your wheels are. The most common wheel size is 26-inch, followed by 27.5-inch and 29-inch in popularity.
Tire Volume
Tire volume is the size of a bike tire, and choosing a size that fits your riding style is essential. For example, if you’re looking for maximum performance from your mountain bike and want to go fast on technical terrain, you should opt for a larger volume (and thus higher pressure) tire.
Conversely, if you prefer comfort over speed or want to ride trails with lots of ups and downs but no steep inclines or descents (e.g., “flatland”), then opting for a smaller-sized tire will probably be more comfortable and easier on your joints.
Suspension Systems And Geometry
Suspension systems and geometry are the two major factors determining how best electric mountain bikes are in context to their performance. Suspension systems are designed to absorb bumps and shocks, while geometry refers to the angle of your frame, seat post, and handlebars.
Frame Material
- Steel: The most common material for mountain bike frames is steel, which balances weight and durability. Steel’s strength makes it an ideal choice for riders looking to get the most out of their bike without worrying about breaking them.
- Carbon fiber: This lightweight material has become more popular because it’s stronger than steel but less expensive than aluminum and titanium.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is another excellent option when considering frame materials because it’s lightweight but has less flexing power than carbon fiber.
Conclusion
Mountain biking can be fun and exciting but can also be daunting. Having the right riding gear can enhance the fun, so consider investing in a high-performance electric mountain bike. So many things to consider! It’s best to get started by deciding which type of mountain bike you want and then finding the correct size.
Once your mountain bike is set up correctly, the next step is figuring out how much gear you need to bring along with you – including helmets, boots, and gloves.
