Beginner Mountain Bikes
When you’re new to mountain biking, it can be challenging to work out what mountain bike is best. With this in mind, I thought I’d create a little post about beginner mountain bikes.
I’ll go into a few things you need to consider and tell you what to avoid. I’ll also give you some great examples of beginner mountain bikes. So by the end of this blog, you’ll have a good starting point.
Now, let’s dive into what makes a great beginner mountain bike.
Frame Material
The material your bike frame is made from makes a difference in how it handles and performs. The most common materials are aluminium, carbon fibre, and steel. Aluminum is the most popular and affordable option, while carbon fibre is lighter and stronger but more expensive.
But as a beginner, you won’t notice much difference. So, unless you have an impressive budget, stick with an aluminium bike.
Wheel Size
Mountain bikes come in three main wheel sizes: 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch. Generally, larger wheels offer better traction and roll over obstacles more easily, while smaller wheels are more nimble and agile.
26″ wheels are pretty rare on new bikes these days. They are pretty much being phased out. This also means getting good tyres and innertubes for them can be tricky.
For beginners, a 27.5-inch wheel size is a great choice, as it offers a good balance of agility and stability. However, 29″ wheels are a good choice if you’re a taller rider.
The best thing to do is try bikes with both 27.5″and 29″ wheels; you may prefer one size to the other. Check out my blog on wheel sizes for the full picture.
Suspension
There are two main types of mountain bikes: full suspension and hardtail.
Full suspension bikes have suspension on both the front and rear. This means the bike absorbs more shock and provides a smoother ride. However, they are more expensive and require more maintenance than hardtail bikes.
On the other hand, hardtail bikes have suspension only on the front fork. These are generally more affordable and easier to maintain. They also climb more efficiently and offer more direct power transfer. Consequently, they make great bikes for beginners who want to focus on developing their skills.
Brakes
When it comes to brakes, you want to look for a mountain bike with disc brakes. Disc brakes offer better stopping power and are more reliable than rim brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes are the most powerful and require less maintenance. In contrast, mechanical disc brakes are more affordable and easier to adjust.
Price
Of course, price is always a factor when buying a mountain bike. As a beginner, you don’t need to break the bank on a top-of-the-line bike, but you also don’t want to go too cheap and end up with a bike that won’t hold up on the trails.
Aim for a bike in the £500-£1000 range, which should provide you with a good balance of quality and affordability. However, it would be best if you were realistic about its capabilities. It won’t fare too well if you take it down a mountainside.
Examples Of Great Beginner Mountain Bikes
Now that you know what to look for in a beginner mountain bike, let’s take a look at five great options to get you started:
1. Giant Talon 27.5
This hardtail bike is a great option for beginners, with a lightweight aluminium frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a 100mm suspension fork. It also has hydraulic disc brakes and a 2×8 drivetrain, making it easy to shift gears and stop quickly when needed.
2. Trek Marlin 6
Another great hardtail option, the Trek Marlin 6, features a lightweight aluminium frame, 29-inch wheels, and a 100mm suspension fork. It also has hydraulic disc brakes, a 2×8 drivetrain, and a lockout feature on the fork for more efficient climbing.
3. Cannondale Trail 8
The Cannondale Trail 8 is an excellent hardtail option for beginners, with a lightweight aluminium frame, 27.5-inch wheels, and a 100mm suspension fork. It also has mechanical disc brakes for great stopping power and a 3×7 drivetrain, making it easy to shift gears. In addition to this, its wide 2.25-inch tires provide excellent traction and stability on the trails.
4. Ragley Big AL 2.0
The Diamondback Hook is another excellent hardtail mountain bike for beginners. It has a lightweight aluminium frame, 29-inch wheels, and a 140mm suspension fork. It also has hydraulic disc brakes and a 1×10 drivetrain. On top of all this, its slack geometry makes it stable on tricky terrain.
Final Thoughts On Beginner Mountain Bikes
No matter which bike you choose, make sure to get out there and have fun exploring the trails! These beginner mountain bikes are excellent ways to get into the sport. You will be able to learn basic techniques and have lots of fun while doing so.
Remember to always wear a helmet and practice safe riding techniques. Happy riding! If you have any questions or thoughts, please leave them in the comments section below.
