Knowing Your Mountain Bike

If you enjoy outdoor activities and are looking for a fun and challenging new adventure, you may want to try mountain biking. It is also a fabulous way to lose weight and tone your body. If you have been riding a bike since you were little you are at a slight advantage. There are however, many differences when you compare a mountain bike with a regular road or BMX bike. It is important to know and understand these differences so you can make an informed decision when you purchase one.

Mountain bikes generally cost in the range of $2000 to $3000 for a quality bike. You can purchase them used, but make absolute sure that they are in good condition and safe to ride. They have fatter tires than regular bikes which are necessary for traversing rough terrain. Road bikes have smooth tires which aid in gaining speed on flat roads while mountain biking tires have knobbies on them to help grip the rocks and sediment on the trails. Mountain bikes have a heavier and stronger frame which is necessary as the biker exerts pressure to maintain speed on rough terrain. Depending on the riders’ preference, you may opt for a front or rear suspension bike. This refers to where the shocks are located on the bike. The shocks and suspension are extremely important as they absorb the shock of riding fast on rough and uneven terrain.

Many people think that because your lower body does the brunt of the work during riding, your upper body doesn’t get a workout. This couldn’t be further from the truth. While mountain biking is excellent for toning and strengthening your legs and buttocks, your arms and core will see improvements as well. Your arms and biceps will get a workout as you struggle to maintain control of the bike on difficult terrain. Your core (abs, back and side muscles) will be challenged as you stabilize your body and maintain balance. As you tone and strengthen, you will also improve your metabolism and burn calories which will shed fat. All of this while improving your cardiovascular system (making your heart and lungs stronger). Do it 2 to 3 times a week for a wonderful total body workout!

Knowing the differences between mountain bikes and other types of bikes can mean making an informed and intelligent decision when you get to the store. Keep in mind that you will be traveling along different, more challenging terrain on a mountain bike and need to prepare for that. You will thank yourself after you see how much fun and how wonderful mountain biking can be.

 Sydney Garrison is an avid cyclist and sports enthusiast. She is also a partner in an online bike rack store. http://www.bikecarrierdirect.com