Choosing a mountain bike can be tricky. There are so many models to choose from, and they can all need to be clarified. If you’re new to mountain biking, you should know a few things before buying.

Enduro

Enduro bikes are typically made from aluminium, carbon fibre, or a blend of the two. Aluminium has proven to be strong and durable and is often used on entry-level to mid-range enduro bikes. Carbon fibre is a little more expensive but provides a more lightweight package.

Pushbikes mountain bikes NZ have longer wheelbases than XC bikes. It gives them a larger contact patch to keep riders grounded and guide their bikes when tired. Most enduro bikes use a 2.3 to 2.8″ tire width.

Enduro bikes have full suspension travel of 150-170mm, which provides a more secure ride. This travel also helps riders slam down steep descents with ease.

Enduro bikes usually feature a dropper post, which provides more room to move around on the trail. In addition, these posts make lifting weights easier and help make pedalling more efficient.

A typical one-day enduro race consists of three to five timed stages. Each stage links to the next by a climb or transfer, also known as a liaison. These stages often have a time limit to start the next stage. It doesn’t affect the final results but requires riders to be self-sufficient.

Enduro bikes are ideal for riders who want to climb and descend the toughest trails easily. They also come with wider bars and super short stems to make them easier to maneuver on the trail.

Full-suspension

A full-suspension mountain bike offers better handling and comfort than a hardtail. You’ll also get more speed and traction riding on rough terrain. You can also carry more weight on your bike. It is useful when you’re a multi-day rider and need a bike carrying extra supplies.

Full-suspension bikes come with a fork and rear shock. The shock absorbs shocks and vibrations, while the fork absorbs bumps, and the shocks can be adjusted for all-mountain, trail and road riding. You’ll also find that full-suspension bikes are lighter than hardtails, which is useful when you’re climbing. They’re also a little more durable.

Full-suspension mountain bike frames generally come with more moving parts, which require more maintenance. However, they can also be repaired by a professional. The extra components on full-suspension bikes also increase the bike’s weight. As a result, full-suspension bikes are more expensive than hardtails.

Full-suspension bikes are best for long, steep and rough terrain. They’re also better at absorbing shocks and vibrations, which will improve your riding and help keep you on the right line. They’re also much more forgiving than hardtails. They don’t bounce as much, so they’re less likely to get you into trouble. They’re also easier to fix if you have a crash or a puncture.

Hybrid

For a good ride, hybrids feature smooth tires that are wider than road tires. They’re also more durable. Hybrids are usually built with 700c wheels, larger than the smaller tires found on mountain bikes. They’re also easier to manoeuvre.

A good hybrid is versatile enough to take on dirt roads, gravel tracks, and paved surfaces. They have a wide range of gear and braking systems. Some come with full mudguards, fenders and pannier racks.

Some of the more sophisticated hybrids have suspension forks. Suspension adds weight to the bike but gives the rider more comfort. It is optional if you’re primarily riding on pavement.

Using a hybrid bike for off-road riding requires a suspension fork, which adds weight to the bike. It can also make pedalling more difficult. But it’s optional for a weekend ride on gravel roads.

A good hybrid bike can also hold up to the weight of a lot of luggage. In addition, most hybrids come with flat bars, allowing the rider to sit upright in traffic. It allows for better visibility.

Other features you might find on a hybrid are double chainrings, which have more gears. You may also see triple chainrings. These are also useful for climbing hills.

Another useful feature of a hybrid bike is a front suspension fork. It’s not necessary for commuting, but it makes riding on bumpy terrain more comfortable.

For the same reason, a hybrid bike should be outfitted with an effective brake. Disc brakes are common on hybrids. But V-brakes are also an option.

Gravel/adventure

Whether a beginner or an experienced biker, you’ll find a gravel/adventure bike to fit your needs. It can be a great all-rounder for many cycling pursuits, from long-distance road riding to bike-packing adventures. Unlike most bikes, gravel bikes are designed to be manoeuvrable on rough terrain and can be used on fire roads, dirt trails, and bridleways.

For starters, gravel bikes offer a more upright position than most road bikes, thanks to their longer wheelbase. It gives you the confidence to tackle technical tracks and loose surfaces.

Gravel bikes also feature wide tyres, which spread the weight over a wider area. It also improves comfort and stability. It is also a good idea to choose a bike with disc brakes, which offer better modulation and performance in all conditions.

Gravel bikes also have a slack headtube angle, which makes it easier to ride at slow speeds. Look for a bike with a tall headtube, as this will help you feel more stable and upright.

A gravel bike is also an excellent way to get off the beaten path and explore new territory. It’s perfect for bike packing adventures, commuting, and shredding local mountain bike trails.

Recumbent

Designed for off-road cycling, mountain recumbents are built to withstand rugged terrain. Unfortunately, the heavier materials required to make them durable have resulted in higher prices than other folding bicycles.

Some of the more advanced models feature a front suspension system. These systems provide added comfort to the rider while helping to reduce the stresses placed on the body.

Recumbents are usually constructed with a shorter front wheel than the rear wheel. It allows for less rolling resistance and better balance.

Most recumbents feature triple chainrings. This chain is approximately two to three times longer than a good chain. In addition, idler pulleys can be added to the frame or retrofitted during manufacture.

Recumbents are usually designed for something other than stunt work. Instead, they are ideal for long-distance touring or recreational highway riding. They also have an aerodynamic advantage. These bikes reduce wind resistance by 15 to 30 per cent.

Recumbents are built with a variety of frame designs. Some feature hand-built carbon fibre frames, while others use components from conventional mountain bikes, and some models are also available in folding or break-apart designs.

Recumbents typically have a heavier seat than upright bicycles. It is because the hands and feet support the weight.