A mountain bike buying trip can be more taxing than the toughest trail. However, it becomes quite simple if you put a bit of time and thought into the purchase!
Planning carefully around your unique mountain bike buying requirements, may be what prevents your bike from becoming just another silver elephant.
You will have one set of needs if you plan to ride frequently, be a serious racer, and take part in events. In this case, you will have to do some serious mountain bike buying, looking for durability and ruggedness in all the components. You will also have to look for a bike that is brash enough to handle any weather, and conditions that are not ideal.
If, on the other hand, you are simply going to enjoy a leisurely weekend ride, your task will be much easier. Here, comfort may be your main consideration.
If you are planning to do a bit of mountain bike buying, you also have to ask yourself if you will have time to spend on maintaining the bike, or if you will need one that doesn't require too much of you in the form of pampering and TLC!
Decide what your upper price limit is, and examine your options within that range. Look at slightly more expensive models to get an idea of what you get for that price. In the long run it may well be worth spending a little more when mountain bike buying, as a better quality bike may offer better stability, control, and a safer ride.
When mountain bike buying, you will have to decide between full suspension and hardtail. The more expensive bikes have full suspension, which adds to riding comfort on rough terrain. This just means that, similar to a car, both wheels are suspended by springs and shock absorbers.
These bikes may be heavier and slower, but for serious mountain biking they offer better control and a less bumpy ride. If you can afford it, this is the way to go .
You will ease your task immeasurably, if you ask other bikers for the best specialized store for mountain bike buying. You need a store where you will feel comfortable enough to ask questions. The salespeople must be knowledgeable, and trustworthy. You must be invited to take your bike back for any repairs or maintenance.
Look for a bike store that has a good reputation and check the qualifications of the mechanics working there. A specialist bike store often adds value in terms of support and after sales service, and will contribute to making mountain bike buying a pleasant experience.
The salesperson should be able to help you to find the best fit in terms of adjusting the handlebar stem, saddle, seat post, or cranks. Make sure that the frame suits you by sitting astride the bike. You should be able to reach the handlebars easily and not have to balance on tip-toe.
Your last task when mountain bike buying, is to scrutinize the warranty, and make sure that you are sufficiently covered. Also make sure what you may and may not do in terms of modifications. You don't want to void your warranty through ignorance.
Mountain bike buying may be less expensive in July and August when bike shops are getting rid of older models to make way for new stock.
If you are a novice on a mountain bike buying trip, it is often safer to buy established brand names like Gary Fisher, Trek, Giant, Klein, Shwinn, Haro, Jeep, or Specialized. Because of the volume these companies produce, their prices can come down without affecting quality. The value in their brand name, also prevents them from using inferior components, that will affect the durability of the bike.
Mountain bike buying is a long-term investment. Take the time to make the right choice!
For more information visit Best-Mountain-Biking.com
Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.