If you’re having trouble picking the perfect mountain bike for you, then you should consider which size is best first. Once you narrow that down, you can make other selections and figure out exactly which bicycle you want. Consider these tips to help you make your choice.
If you’re tall and lanky, then chances are, you’ll want the lightest frame possible with short suspension travel. You want something that flows with your size, and a light frame will do just that. If you’re on the short side, then you may still want a light frame, since you don’t want to lug around a bike that’s half your weight, but a medium or long suspension travel is more appropriate.
If you’re in between tall and short, then you’ll need to consider your style of mountain biking to make the right choice. If you’re all about cross-country riding, then you’ll want a larger frame. This allows for a longer wheel base that supplies a lot of speed, although it cuts back on your maneuverability a little. But if you want to experience the cliffs and the rocks and slopes, then you’ll need something a little smaller and a little lighter, so it can handle all the jumps and bumps.
You’ll need to consider your weight, too. Even if you’re tall, a heavy rider shouldn’t use a light bike. That just doesn’t end well. Instead, make sure your bike and all the parts in it will last you a long time, and don’t worry so much about the weight of the bike. Chances are, you can heft it easily enough anyway.
Finally, if you have an unusual body type or abnormal proportions–maybe you’re very tall, or very short, or you have long legs and short arms, or vice versa–you should consider getting a bicycle that has been custom-built just for you. It will definitely cost extra, so make sure it’s absolutely necessary, but the comfort and ease is a fair trade if you do need one.
Having the right size bike can go a long way to making your rides as enjoyable as possible. Make sure that you’re looking in the right places, then buy yourself a mountain bike and get out there to ride!
