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So what is a mountain bike?
Mountain bikes differ from road racing bicycles in several ways.
They have a smaller and stronger frame, knobbly, wider and higher profile tires which are mounted on a rim which is stronger than a standard bicycle rim, a larger range of gears to facilitate climbing up steep hills and over obstacles, a wider flat or upwardly-rising handlebar that allows a more upright riding position, and often some form of suspension system for either the front wheel or both wheels.
While it is estimated that only between 10 and 20% of mountain bikes are actually ridden off-road, the sport of mountain biking has seen an explosion in popularity and diversification. Our bikes are built to be ridden off road - accept no substitutes.
For the most part, mountain biking can be split into three different categories:
A cross-country mountain biker rides off-road in a variety of terrain. Cross Country (XC) is the most common form of mountain biking, and the standard for most riders. It generally involves searching out exhilarating climbs and descents, and the freedom of exploring the countryside in a traffic free environment.
Downhill is all about riding mountain bikes downhill... fast! While cross country has a downhill component, it is common practice for downhill specialists to either be shuttled to the top in a vehicle, walk the bike, or to be carried by a ski lift (as opposed to pedaling to the top of the trail). Downhill-specific bikes are typically equipped with substantial front and rear suspension, powerful brakes, and are larger and heavier than other mountain bikes; these modifications are necessary for the bike to withstand the higher stresses and larger impacts inherent in Downhill riding.
Trials riding consists of hopping and jumping bikes over obstacles. It can be performed either off-road or in an urban environment. It requires an excellent sense of balance. As with Dirt Jumping and BMX-style riding, emphasis is placed on style, originality and technique. There are many stylistic similarities to skateboarding. Trials bikes look almost nothing like mountain bikes. They use either 20", 24" or 26" wheels and have very small, low frames.
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