There are so many different mountain bike models and brands to choose from, each with its own set of different component options. It's easy to get carried away by looks alone, but you must remember to consider several things when looking for a new mountain bike.
Different mountain bikes are built for different types of riding. While you may be tempted to buy a downhill bike with massive suspension travel and wide tyres, you may be disappointed to learn it doesn't pedal uphill well on your local cross country trail.
That's why you should consider what type of riding you're planning on doing, and then let that guide you towards a particular type of mountain bike. It's also worth considering what type of trails are close to you, as they'll likely be the ones you'll ride most. If you have vast distances of undulating smooth trails, perhaps you should consider a cross country (XC) mountain bike, which has geometry, suspension and gearing to suit such trails. Conversely, if you have rough, rocky and steep trails, then an all mountain or enduro mountain bike may suit you better. In short, it's important to pick the right tool for the job.
It's important to work out what you're willing to spend on a new mountain bike before you start looking too heavily. It's easy to get carried away and end up spending more than you need to. Working out a budget will help you narrow down which bikes to consider. Thinking about how often you plan to ride can help when setting a budget, as this can help solidify just how much you're willing to spend.
Electric mountain bikes are ever-increasing in popularity. This is for good reason: they enable you to ride harder and for longer. And who can't say no to hitting more trails? Keep in mind that e-mountain bikes are usually more expensive than their analogue counterparts. So it all comes down to what suits you best and your goals when riding your mountain bike.
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We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for mountain bikes on MTB Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know. We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right mountain bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.