Before you set about scouring a collection of mountain bikes, it is important to ascertain which type of cycle you require. Each bike is different, but you can usually classify it as one of four types – rigid, hard tail, soft tail or dual. Rigid is the most common and basic model, consisting of one immovable structure, empty of any modifications or adaptations. This will often be the cheapest of mountain bikes and suits the rider who rarely ventures onto rough terrain. Hard tail bikes are those equipped with some form of front suspension only. This usually takes the guise of two coiled cylinders that occupy the front forks, which helps reduce vibrations when travelling over uneven surfaces. This is particularly popular with those looking to ride over rocky paths or country roads. The soft tail, in direct contrast, is the design that only accommodates rear suspension. This aids the rider over bumpy surfaces helping absorb the majority of shock and increasing comfort. Finally, dual systems are that which combine the two previous designs. These are the most advanced of mountain bikes, which is reflected by their steep prices. Dual bikes should only be purchased by those who are looking to cover a range of terrains by pedal, and are very serious about cycling.
(above) The Scott Genius Limited, full suspension mountain bike
As you would imagine, the price of mountain bikes is fairly hard to nail down. The complexity and variety of, both brand and model, means that this is a very sparse market. Most high street collections circulate around the £250 mark with that price being matched, or beaten, by online distributors.
The premier advantage of mountain bikes is that, unlike racing (or road) bikes, they can transfer between diverse terrains without too much fuss. Over the past decade, vendors have noted the gap in the market between serious road cyclists and dedicated mountain bikers, which harbours roughly 90% of us in the UK. This has caused the majority of mountain bikes to be adapted for road use, making them somewhat of an all-rounder.
Most retail outlets will offer nice selection of mountain bikes, but the real vault lies on the Internet. Halfords currently swamp the market, with an extensive range of cycles in both their website and nationwide stores. However, there are also a host of new specialist online distributors who are undercutting them to try and obtain a share of the custom.
Mountain bikes offer the adaptability and comfort, both on and off-road, which you cannot find in any other available model. What they lack in speed, they make up for in appearance, practicality and durability. Their tractor like tires mean that you can leave the puncture repair kit at home and simply - get on your bike and go.
