Ann Silva Whether you’re a daily bike commuter or new to biking, mountain bikes are the way to go if you love riding trails and want to explore nature. While mountain biking may seem intimidating or intense to new riders, anyone can get started with a little know-how and some essential gear. This beginner’s guide to mountain bike types will help you find the right ride for your needs and skill level.
Compared to road bikes, mountain bikes have fatter, knobbier tires a larger stronger frame bigger stronger brakes and front (or sometimes rear) suspension. The suspension is designed to absorb the constant pounding of the trail and other obstacles like rocks, roots and jumps that are a common feature of mountain biking. The amount of suspension a mountain bike has is called its ‘travel’, and the more travel a mountain bike has, the more it will be designed for big mountain or downhill riding.
The most accessible style of mountain bike is the trail bike, which can be used on both mellow and challenging trails. Trail mountain bikes are typically built with front suspension and often rear suspension, and they place the rider in a more upright position than a cross-country race bike (XC). Trail mountain bikes will usually have 27.5 inch wheels for traction and maneuverability but will also work on 29 inch wheels as well.
Next is all-mountain mountain biking, which is often used on steeper and more technical mountain bike trails. All-mountain bikes can be either hardtail or full suspension and are often geared more towards climbing than the speed and maneuverability of trail racing and downhill mountain bike riding. All-mountain bikes can use either 1X or 2X drivetrains.
Downhill mountain biking is usually the most exciting and awe-inspiring, but it’s a bit more advanced than all-mountain riding and requires significant training and skills. Downhill mountain biking is usually done at ski resorts during the winter and bike parks during the summer, which have adaptable chairlifts to lift riders up the mountain and then drop them down the hill on their mountain bikes.
With the right bike a little practice and some confidence you can easily take on any mountain biking trail that’s appropriate for your ability level. Before you head out, though, be sure to look up trail maps and learn the difficulty ratings that are posted along trail systems so you can select a trail that will not only be fun for you but won’t be too challenging or dangerous. Happy riding! And don’t forget to take pictures. You’ll be glad you did.
