MTB: Preferable One From Different Types Of Mountain Bikes

Would you like to know what the most preferable mountain bike is for you? But finding the suitable one for you can be confusing with so many different types of mountain biking available out there. With this guide, you can learn about the different types of mountain bikes so you can select a mountain bike with confidence.

Before choosing a mountain bike, it is important to understand the differences between them. There are three types of mountain bikes: 1) Rigid Hardtails, 2) Full Suspension, and 3) Hybrids. Thus the disciplines can then be divided into five: cross-country, all-mountain & endure, downhill, freeride, and a fat bike.

And, today I will explain all the types of mountain bikes in detail to help you choose the right one. So, if you want to buy a suitable mountain bike for yourself, then without any further ado, read through the article.

What Is Exactly Mean By Mountain Bike And Its Usability?

An off-road bicycle (MTB) belongs to the category of mountain bikes but it is similar to the basics of other bicycles. Still, it incorporates features designed to make it more durable and efficient on rough terrain. In contrast, which also makes MTB heavier, more complex, and less efficient on smooth surfaces.

• Typically, Mountain Bikes include suspension forks, large knobby tyres, more substantial wheels, stronger brakes, and wide-straight handlebars that improve balance and comfort over rough terrain. Moreover, the gearing of MTB is tailored to the topography and application of the bike for fast descents or steep climbing.
• It is generally accepted that mountain bikes are used on unpaved surfaces, such as mountain trails, single tracks, and fire roads.
• A mountain bike ride’s terrain is usually characterized by rocks, roots, loose dirt, and steep grades. There are also log piles, rock gardens, skinnies, gap jumps, and wall rides on the technical trails (TTFs) where an MTB is considered the most preferable bike for cycling.
• These bikes are also popular with urban riders and couriers who have to navigate potholes and curbs. Because of mountain bike’s natural heavy-duty construction and wider tyres.

Different Types Of MTBs: As Per Categorized By Disciplines

Mountain bikes come in many different types. In terms of shape and size, they come in a variety of options. The following are some of the most common groupings, but there are also many variations:

1. Cross-country bike(XC Bike):

Compared to other types of mountain bikes, cross-country bikes with single suspension are designed for speed and efficiency. The suspension travel is generally limited to 120mm, and the suspension design optimizes efficiency. Bikes designed for cross-country riding should not engage the suspension while pedaling.

• Cross-country bikes compromise the all-out lightweight of an XC race bike, but they offer a little more capability.
• The travel of cross-country bikes is usually around 120mm. And, they typically come with components that improve descent capabilities, such as longer dropper posts and more rigid tires.
• CX bikes are generally modified XC frames rather than specific designs so that they can distinguish them from trail bikes.

2. All-Mountain & Enduro Bikes:

The endure bike evolved from enduro racing, in which riders compete on a long course full of challenging climbs and descents. However, they only race against the clock on the downhills.

• In addition to climbing mountains, enduro bikes are great for descending them as well. Therefore, they have suspension travel exceeding 150mm and a slacker frame.
• To handle challenging, rough terrain, all components will be beefed up. In comparison to trail bikes, endure bikes are geared toward downhill performance.
• As a result, the bikes can handle rougher terrain and longer descents without deteriorating performance.
• Enduro bikes have more powerful brakes to handle steeper gradients.
• These bikes can climb uphill and downhill all day long. That’s why it is a suitable choice for those who push themselves on challenging trails or want to test themselves at enduro races.

3. Downhill MTB:

The purpose of downhill bikes is to go downhill – as quickly, comfortably, and safely as possible. During aggressive bombing downhill, both front and rear downhill bikes have super long travel to absorb shocks.

• As there is a lot of stress involved in downhill riding, including jumping off high ledges at high speeds and negotiating treacherous rock gardens. So, extra-wide tyres with more volume provide increased traction, handling, and flat tire prevention.
• Despite its ultra-slack geometry, its riding position optimizes for downhills.
• In general, 5″ and 29″ wheels are the most common sizes.
• The front wheels of some of these cars have 29 inches for extra traction and less rolling resistance, while the rear wheels have 5 inches for better handling and more “butt clearance”.

4. Freeride Mountain Bike:

There is no doubt that this is a Freeride MTB to consider if you love spending all day at the mountain bike park. It isn’t the most accessible bike to climb on since it’s so heavy. But it’s great for hitting berms and jumping hard.

• It is super durable and built to withstand a lot of abuse.
• A wide knobby tyre provides maximum traction and handling.
• For clearing obstacles, gravity, or downhill, these bikes have a higher bottom bracket.
• It is usually available in 5″ or 29″ sizes, both of which help you to roll over obstacles more easily.

5. Fat MTBs:

Fat bikes are characterized by their distinctively oversized wheels. Although fat bikes are plush rides that stand out in a crowd, their technical capabilities are usually limited.

• It is more likely that a wider tyre will provide traction on slippery, sandy, or very loose surfaces.
• They are typically 4-5″ wide and come in 26″ and 27.5″ sizes.

But What Are The Some Other Basic Types Of Mountain Bikes?

There are different geometrical features, tire sizes, rigidities, weights, suspensions, seat posts, etc. Though variations are endless, they can generally categorize into three main categories:

Rigid

There is no suspension on the front fork or rear of these mountain bikes.

You will hate mountain biking before you get a chance to like it if you are a beginner on off-pavement/hard-pack dirt. But this is your choice, I am here just to inform you. Nonetheless, compared to Road Bikes, these are more user-friendly, comfortable, and versatile bikes that can ride on pavement.

Hardtail

This mountain bike has front suspension shocks but not rear suspension shocks.

As they are more affordable, you will be able to purchase a lighter bike with better components if you have a limited budget. But, Full-suspension bikes also handle better than entry-level hardtails.

Despite their lighter weight and stiffness, hardtail mountain bikes are not just for beginners who want to save money but also excellent cross-country and racing bikes.

Full Suspension

There is a front suspension and a rear suspension on MTBs with full suspension is known as “Full-Suspension MTB”.

In addition, to improving comfort, this bike also allows you to ride on more challenging terrain. But the cost of these bikes is usually higher, and they are heavier than other bikes. Thus, a full-suspension bike should not be purchased before you have more experience with mountain biking.

The Complete Comparison: Cross-Country VS All-Mountain & Enduro Bike VS Downhill MTB VS Freeride Mountain Bike VS Fat MTB

You can ride different types of terrain in the five main mountain bike disciplines.

Depending on the discipline, suspension travel is the most important defining characteristic of the bike. In suspension, travel refers to how far the wheel moves when compressed. And, cycling a bike with less suspension travel on smoother terrain is generally more comfortable. Because it is lighter and more aerodynamic. In addition to being heavier, a bike with more travel can handle rougher terrain.

Now we are going to understand the 5 MTB’s key differences depending on some basic parameters.

Among All MTBs: Which One Is The Most Popular?

The most popular type of bike among MTB enthusiasts is the trail bike.

Between 110mm and 150mm of suspension travel is available on these hardtail and complete suspension bikes. They are, therefore, ideal for riding at trail centers. Because the Trail bikes are designed for mountain biking faster and more confident on downhills and singletrack trails.

Furthermore, the downhill sections offer a confidence-inspiring ride. Despite their lightweight design and efficiency, these bikes are easy to climb.

• You can learn the essential skills of mountain biking with a hardtail trail bike. As Hardtail bikes have better component specifications than full suspension bikes at the same price point and are lighter than full suspension bikes.

And, if you can take on more challenging terrain and advance your biking skills with a full-suspension trail bike, which is much smoother on rough terrain.

• There is a greater degree of comfort in trail bikes due to their slacker head tube angles and longer top tubes compared to XC bikes.
• As a result, you can ride with more confidence in rough conditions. Because you have more control over challenging terrain with wide handlebars and short stems.

But Remember A Few Things

1. During steep descents, dropper posts make it easier to lower the saddle quickly, so your body position doesn’t suffer.
2. Vertical seat tube angles give you a good riding position while climbing cross-country bikes.
3. In rough trails, clutch mechs ensure the chain stays in place with one-by drivetrains and wide-range cassettes.

The Last Word Over Different Types Of Mountain Bikes

I hope, now you can decide what type of mountain bike can be overwhelming for beginners or pros quite easily. Because, after reading this content any biker can able to narrow down his/her options if he/she understands MTB types, their availability, and uses. And, I believe that this article has provided you with a better understanding of mountain bikes and their varied styles and types. Also, Mountain bikes of the types mentioned above can be used for various types of riding.

Finally, choosing one depends on your budget, riding style, and brand preference. More often than not, mountain bikes are built in collaboration with professional riders to make sure they work best for a rider’s needs.