When purchasing a mountain bike there are a few things to keep in mind. Before you go out to buy a new bike first consider the size of your wallet, how much are you willing to spend? What kind of trails will you be riding? Will you be taking on treacherous trails or going a relaxing ride. Here are some tips that can help you determine whats right for you.

If you are willing to spend the money on a bike don’t go buy the most expensive bike you can find. Though the general rule of thumb is you get what you pay for, you may want to experience a less expensive bike so that you can determine what kind of adjustments or features you may want in a more expensive bike. This way you will be able to figure out what you want before you spend the money on an expensive bike. Doing this will help you determine if you want a soft tail or a hard tail, disk brakes or not, spring shocks or compressed air or both, etc. Before I got my bike I was able to try out my friends $1500 ride, he has a bike with a 29 inch frame, disk brakes and compressed air shocks. The first thing I noticed when I mounted it was that my crotch was uncomfortably pressed against the frame. A 29 inch frame was too tall for me. After I was able to step up to the pedals I rode the bike around for a few minutes testing the disk brakes and compresses air shocks. They worked fine, but I don’t have a compressor strong enough to refill the shocks when the air leaks out which means I would have to pay for a bike shop to do it for me.

I ended up going to a local bike shop to look for the bike that was right for me. I ended up trying out a Trek mountain bike, it was a hard tail standard size bike. The shop let me test it in the parking lot. The first thing I noticed was that the frame didn’t invade my crotch’s personal space. Everything worked properly. It didn’t have disk brakes, but the brakes it had worked great. It had spring shocks which means less maintenance, it was for me. Not to mention that it was light, this is ideal for the harder trail rides. The best thing of all was that the bike was only $350. I still use the same bike and am very satisfied with my investment. The only thing I have added is a set of pedals with clips that have made a world of difference when powering up those steep hills. Although clips can take some getting used to, learning how to pop out of them quickly can be essential when avoiding a clumsy fall when coming to a stop. Of course some people don’t like the idea of being attached to their bike, especially when the bike is falling over. Practicing off of the trails is advised when learning how to use clips.

If you are not in to riding difficult trails and want a bike that you can take out on a leisurely ride you will be looking for a comfort bike. This type of bike is not made for riding trails but is ideal for paved or hard surfaces. This type of bike is built for comfort and typically has a larger seat than a mountain bike. When riding this bike you will find that it will let you keep your posture while letting you reach the pedals and handle bars easily. Prices for this type of bike vary, but as long as you find one that is comfortable and within your price range you will most likely be satisfied with with your new ride.

As long as you pick the bike that is right for you, you will have a great riding experience. Bike riding can be fun and can be a great exercise no matter what kind of riding you will be doing. Getting outside and getting some fresh air can be a good way to escape the monotony of every day life and can be a good stress reliever. So get out there and enjoy a nice ride and as always wear a helmet!