Friday, September 5, 2008 |
How To Select The Right Mountain Bike Frames |
There are many bicycles on the market today that serve a variety of purposes. Often the construction of these bikes is in accordance with their intended use. For example a simple bike is needed to bicycle in the neighborhood. Generally, these bikes are not elaborate in construction and will serve the bicyclist well for this purpose. However, if the biking enthusiast is planning on high speed racing then a light weight bicycle with thin tires and multiple gears should be purchased.
Additionally, if the biker is wishing to purchase a bike that will be used for mountain riding then a mountain bike should be purchased. One of the specific features to look for when in the market for this type of bike is the proper selection of a mountain bike frame from those available. Selection of a mountain bike frame is important because typically the mountain bike is utilized on rugged terrain. Therefore strength is critical and yet should be light weight enough for maneuverability.
To help facilitate this process it is important to understand the sport of mountain bicycling, the types of mountain bicycle frames that are available and their associated cost.
The Sport of Mountain Bicycling
The sport of mountain bicycling has been popular since its beginnings in the 1970’s. This sport combines the love of bicycling, exercise along with the love of the rugged outdoors. In addition, one can participate in this sport for the simple pleasure of bicycling in remote and rugged areas of the countryside or competition in formal venues that involve other racers on specific mountain bike courses.
Mountain Bicycle Frames Available
Mountain bicycles are uniquely structured so that they can withstand the demands of bicycling on rugged terrain. Often these bikes are equipped with balloon type tires. In addition, they are equipped with lightweight handbrakes that can be easily gripped to insure quick braking. In addition, because of the slopes of the hills, mountain bikes are equipped with numerous gears. These many levels help the bicyclist to scale the highest of terrains as easily as possible.
Another important feature to consider when selecting a bike is the consideration of the mountain bike frame. The frame must be strong and yet light weight to maximize the mountain bike experience. The frames are basically the same in style; however, the material that is used to construct the mountain bike frame differs from bike to bike. The three basic materials that are used to construct mountain bike frames are steel, carbon fiber and titanium. Steel is the most common material used to construct the mountain bike frame. This is due to the fact that it is the most traditional and readily available.
Titanium and carbon fiber materials, although utilized, are more difficult to work with in the construction of mountain bike frames. Titanium is a metal that is similar to steel and aluminum. The benefits of titanium include its resistance to rust and scratches. Another benefit to titanium is that it is a light weight metal.
Carbon fiber is a composite which is comprised of aluminum and carbon-fiber tubing. This fabric is immersed in glue and molded into tubes to produce the frame.
Cost
When selecting the right mountain bike frame an important consideration is the cost. A steel mountain bike frame is the least expensive and those mountain bike frames that utilize titanium and carbon fiber are the most expensive. |
posted by Cimon @ 9:41 AM  |
|
|
|
Mountain Bike Kick Stand Use Spurs Heated Debate |
There are many arguments in regards to using a mountain bike kick stand and there is a fairly hard line between kickstand use on mountain bikes used on the street and for mountain bikes used on the trail. While there will probably never be any compromise on the subject, there are points for both sides of the argument.
With the rough terrain typically bouncing a mountain bike around, keeping the one bolt that holds a mountain bike kick stand in place, can easily become loose. If it should happen to slip into the down position while the rider is zipping down a hill and become lodged in the dirt or on a rock, the rider is going to put new meaning to the term extreme jumping. Others who rail against using a mountain bike kick stand do so simply for the image projected by the mountain bike.
Many of those in favor of the mountain bike kick stand claim they do not want their expensive piece of equipment lying on the ground during breaks, claiming that leaning it against a tree or other object raises the possibility of it slipping to the ground, causing potential damage. They also contend that when riding their bike on pavement, the mountain bike kick stand usually remains secure and they can take it off when they hit the mountain trails.
Personal Opinion Takes Stand On Position
For most riders a mountain bike kick stand is a matter of personal opinion some with a negotiator’s sense will tell others that if they want a kick stand on their bike, it is their choice but they would never have one of theirs. Others with a more forceful opinion express it by claiming those who ride mountain bikes on pavement are not true mountain bikers.
For those who see nothing wrong with using a mountain bike kick stand it is prudent to verify it is securely bolted to frame before heading off road. There are versions that are held securely by two bolts instead of the typical one, and lock washers and lock nuts can be utilized to reduce the chance of them coming loose during a wild ride. If riding the bike on pavement for leisure, the debate about using a mountain bike kick stand becomes a moot point about the level of danger they add.
Whether it leans against the wall or tree, uses a kick stand or laid on the ground when taking a rest, the important thing is the protection of the drive side of the bike. It it becomes damaged using a mountain bike kick stand will not matter when the rider is walking the bike back home. |
posted by Cimon @ 9:40 AM  |
|
|
|
|
Previous Post |
|
Archives |
|
Links |
|
Powered by |
 |
|