Why do you need a men’s mountain bike? Automatic translate
A mountain bike is a universal bike that feels great on dirt roads, on forest roads, and while riding around the city. It differs from other types of bicycles in its suspension fork with a travel of 80-100 mm (except for models with a rigid fork), wide wheels and a large number of gears, making it easier to climb climbs.
To choose the most comfortable model for you, first of all, you should decide the purpose of your purchase, where and how you will ride.
A bicycle without suspension – rigid – has a rigid fork and is suitable for quiet riding around the city and on paved roads.
If you’re taking your bike to ride on rough terrain with little ups and downs, then a hardtail is perfect for you. This bike has a rigid triangle at the rear and a front shock absorber that will absorb shock and vibration on bumpy roads. Such bicycles weigh and cost less, and thanks to the rigid frame, they easily pick up speed.
The dual-suspension system already has 2 shock absorbers (front and rear), which means it is more suitable for extreme riding, including at high speed (for example, downhill). It is distinguished by its excellent off-road handling and stability. However, such a bike is slightly heavier and costs much more.
What is a men’s mountain bike frame made of?
The main part of the bicycle, its frame, is usually made of:
- Become;
- aluminum (aluminum alloy);
- carbon.
The first is heavier and has low performance characteristics. Installed on inexpensive models. The aluminum frame is lighter, very strong and quite rigid, and is the ideal choice at the moment. Carbon is used to create expensive professional models.
Frame geometry on a men’s mountain bike
Usually there are two types of geometry: female and unisex. In the first case we see a lowered top tube, and in the second - a straight one. But in reality, it’s not that men won’t be comfortable riding a bike with a lowered tube. And there is no arguing about tastes. Here the choice is yours.
Be sure to pay attention to the saddle
If we talk about the difference between a men’s saddle and a women’s one, it is narrower, because… a man’s pelvis is narrower. But another point is important. In order to choose the most suitable option, you need to measure the distance between the pelvic bones. How to do it? It is enough to sit on a soft plastic surface and then measure the distance between the centers of the dents. This value must coincide with the distance between the tubercles of the saddle, otherwise you will experience discomfort and even pain due to poor circulation in the pelvic area (if the saddle is narrow) or rub your inner thighs against the saddle (if it is too wide). Also, do not choose a saddle that is too soft if you are going to ride a lot, in which case it should be quite hard and narrow.
Wheel diameter is also important
Mountain bikes are found on wheels with a diameter of 26, 27.5 and 29 inches. The choice depends on your height and purpose of riding. It is preferable for a person up to 175 cm tall to choose 26 or 27.5 wheels for the greatest comfort and safety. 26 classic wheels are distinguished by their rigidity (due to shorter spokes), acceleration and excellent cross-country ability. Wheels with a diameter of 27.5 are universal, maneuverable, hold speed well, and have better grip compared to 26. And the so-called niners have excellent roll and overcome obstacles on the road more easily, but with such wheels it is more difficult to accelerate. Don’t forget about the tires: choose smooth slicks if you ride on paved surfaces, semi-slicks if you ride cross-country style, or studded tires for aggressive driving.
Which brakes should I choose?
There are 2 types of brakes on men’s mountain bikes:
- Rim brakes are a simple, low-maintenance system with moderate braking power. Afraid of dirt.
- Disc brakes are a more modern braking system. Mechanical disc brakes have decent stopping power and are fairly easy to maintain. Hydraulic brakes have less wear and are very responsive even after muddy driving. However, hydraulics are more difficult to maintain.
A little about the transmission
The quality of gear shifting on difficult road sections depends on the transmission, so this is also an important point when choosing a mountain bike for men. We advise you to pay attention to the manufacturers SRAM and SHIMANO (MICROSHIFT is also a good option), because high-quality shifters and switches are the key to long and comfortable operation of a mountain bike. Based on the number of stars, systems are divided into classic triple, double with a narrower gear range and single, less complex and lightweight.
Conclusion
Once you decide on the purpose of buying a mountain bike, you will immediately understand which model will suit you. At the moment, manufacturers offer options for every taste, which means choosing a reliable mountain bike will not be difficult. For example, the online store Veloshop will surprise you with a wide range at an attractive price.