08/02/2023
BASIC TIPS TO START MOUNTAIN BIKING
CHOOSE THE RIGHT BIKE
Choose a mountain bike that suits you and your needs to avoid disappointment. In a nutshell:
Choose the right size. Here is a guide, but it is best to ask for advice at the store where you are buying the bike both to get the right size and to adjust the bike to your measurements.
Rule out enduro or downhill mountain bikes right away. These modalities are too “radical” for a beginner. A cross-country mountain bike (hardtail or full-suspension) is perfect to get started. A down-country mountain bike (a full-suspension cross-country bike with a little extra shock damping) is another great option for MTB rookies as it adapts easily to different types of terrain.
Forget about 26″ and 27.5″ bikes (you’ll find great bargains on the second-hand market precisely because they’re so hard to sell). 29″ wheel size is the standard nowadays. If you are rather short, a 27.5″ may work well for you.
Front suspension no matter what. 100 mm minimum. Consider a full-suspension model for extra comfort or if you often have to deal with rough terrain, but bear in mind that they are more expensive and heavier.
Aluminum or carbon? An aluminum MTB with good components is better for a beginner than a carbon bike with poorer-quality parts.
Flat vs Clipless Pedals. If you have a road-cycling background, there’s no doubt: clipless. Choose flat pedals only if you have no experience whatsoever and you are planning to ride on easy trails or tracks. Otherwise, it’s always better to use clipless pedals and practice clipping in and out, which brings us to the next point:
BECOME FAMILIAR WITH YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKE
Now that you have your brand new bike, learn how to use all of its components: clipless pedals, gears, brakes, suspension, etc. Try it out on flat, easy terrain to see how everything works before going off-road.
Keep in mind that the bike behaves and responds differently depending on the terrain and conditions (dry on a firm road, dry on gravel or sand, damp and muddy or simply wet). Each situation has many variables, and in addition you must consider additional factors such as whether you are climbing, descending, riding on flat ground or cornering. Everything might affect your bike’s performance, which is why you should…