| 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  |
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