For mountain biking enthusiasts, limits don’t exist—they live for the indescribable thrill of conquering the most challenging terrains. But which bikes are truly up to the task? You’ll agree that bombing down a canyon isn’t the same as tackling sandy trails or mud-choked paths.
As with any high-risk sport, gear isn’t always as affordable as we’d like. But when your safety’s on the line, those extra quid pale in comparison. The same goes for MTBs—you could opt for a budget model, but you must consider your riding style and the risks involved.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned rider looking to buy a mountain bike, trust the wisdom of veterans. The bike universe is vast, but this article covers the key questions. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to find your perfect MTB.
1. What type of riding will I be doing?
2. What suspension type does my mountain bike need?
3. What’s the best braking system for a mountain bike? Which are top-tier?
4. What bike size should I choose?
5. What accessories will my bike need?
6. Which are the top mountain bike brands?
7. Is buying a second-hand bike safe?
1. Your first consideration when choosing a bike is your preferred riding discipline.
- XC-Cross Country riders hit the trails with bikes featuring 100mm suspension and tyre widths between 1.9" and 2.1".
- The competition-focused XC-Cross Country Marathon uses similar bikes but for longer-distance races.
- All Mountain bikes resemble XC models but boast dual suspension, ideal for occasional jumps during rides.
- Enduro demands technical skill—knowing every climb, descent, and berm. Your bike needs dual suspension, reinforced frames, 120-160mm travel, and 2.1"-2.3" tyres.
- For FreeRide or Urban FreeRide (conquering extreme obstacles), opt for bikes with 140-180mm suspension travel. Dual suspension isn’t essential, but frames must be reinforced with 2.2"-2.6" tyres.
- DH/Downhill addicts need bikes built for speed: dual suspension (180-220mm travel), bombproof frames, and 2.3"-2.7" tyres. These require serious skill—and body armour.
2. As detailed above, your ideal suspension depends on your riding style. Specialist shops will guide you, but here’s a cheat sheet:
3. First, understand disc brakes versus V-brakes. Discs offer instant dry braking (pads gripping rotors), while V-brakes deliver progressive, smoother stops.
V-brakes are praised for their stopping power (crucial in MTB), easy adjustment, and lower cost. But discs’ rapid response and sheer power suit certain disciplines better—plus they’re low-maintenance long-term.
Top-rated brake brands include:
- Magura Mt 7
- SRAM G2 Ultimate
- SRAM RSC
- Shimano Deore XT 8120
- V-Brake
- Hydraulic disc brakes
Frame size:
T = L x 0.22 (result in inches)
Saddle height:
A = L x 0.885 (result in cm)
Where:
- T = frame size (inches)
- L = inseam length (cm)
- A = saddle height (cm)
5. Your MTB accessories depend on how extreme you’ll go. Basics like helmets, gloves, and goggles are essential—beyond that, it’s discipline-specific.
Think knee/elbow pads for enduro, phone mounts, bike computers, bottle cages, GoPros... The gear options will surprise you!
6. The market offers everything from ultra-high-tech bikes to quality mid-range options. Top brands include:
- BMC Fourstroke 01 One
- Scott Spark RC 900 World Cup Race
- Specialized Epic Expert EVO
- Trek Supercaliber 9.9
- Kona Hei Hei
- Team Marin
- Mercurio ZTX R 26 – Dual Suspension
- Benotto – Navy MTB R 26
- Mercurio – K
7. Second-hand bike purchases are common in MTB. To avoid pitfalls:
- Verify it’s not stolen—demand proof of purchase.
- Test all functions before paying. MTBs need regular maintenance.
- Compare prices for similar models to avoid scams.
These tips will help you find your dream bike. But an unused MTB is a sad sight! To unleash your new steed’s potential, discover Mexico’s best MTB routes here—you’ll meet fellow riders for epic, adrenaline-fuelled adventures.
