| What advice do you have for someone who wants to get into mountain biking?

What advice do you have for someone who wants to get into mountain biking?

moto_sport asked:


I want to get into mountain biking. I have always rode atv but I want to get myself into better shape now. I need advice on getting started with a bike and what gear I should buy also. I don’t want to spend a fortune on a bike (preferably $350 or less until I get started for awhile). I will mainly be doing all offroad and trail riding.

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Comments

7 Responses to “What advice do you have for someone who wants to get into mountain biking?”

  1. Carl_the_Truth on May 17th, 2009 7:48 pm

    Stay AWAY from Walmart, Target, K-Mart, or any store like that. Go to a local bike shop and see what they have. That way you’ll get a decent entry level mountain bike that is put together correctly.

  2. draudio2u on May 18th, 2009 9:10 am

    Go tot he local bike shop and ask what they have from people trading up. This way you will get more for the money as it is hard to get a mountain bike that will last for that kind of money. Don’t ride without a helmet, and although you are ATV experienced, you should go to the local trail with people that are familiar with the terrain. You want the easy trail (try a “rails to trails” system first to get used to pedaling). There is a HUGE difference when you have to power over the obstacles yourself. Finally, have fun!

    PS. the golden rule- don’t look at the obstacle you want to avoid or else you are sure to hit it.

  3. artmichalek on May 21st, 2009 9:09 am

    Most bike shops usually have a few used bikes around that will be in your price range. Avoid the box store brands. Good components with a few seasons of wear will far outperform shiny new garbage. There’s not much you need other than a bike, a helmet, and a decent pair of bike shorts. Clipless pedals are great, but I would recommend learning how the bike handles without them first. You’ll also want some basic tools for repairs and adjustments; a folding allen wrench set, air pump, tire levers, and patch kit.

  4. pockethotrod on May 24th, 2009 2:55 am

    check what your bike shop has
    if they sell giant bikes, get a giant boulder
    if they sell specialized bikes, get a specialized hardrock
    if they sell diamondback bikes, get a diamondback response sport
    or you can go to target.com and get this:=&page=1

    stay away from schwinn, huffy, pacific, roadmaster, magna, NEXT, kent, gmc, jeep, kawasaki, and honda bikes
    mongoose bikes are also worth considering

  5. Benny on May 25th, 2009 2:23 pm

    not sure if this was already mentioned, but
    buy the right frame size…
    measure your inseam.
    wouldnt want to rack ‘the boys’ lol
    i’m new to mtb as well, got a nice entry level bike
    off craigslist!

  6. M R on May 27th, 2009 3:05 pm

    Whether you buy from Wal Mart, Craig’s List or bike shop find what size fits. Mountain bikes should be smaller than a road bike. I’m 5′ 8″ and ride a 16.5″ MTB frame. I see lots of people riding mountain bikes much too big for them. Also, stick with a hard tail there is limited use for a dual suspension bike, they are heavier and cost more for a good one. A light and nimble bike will get you through the trail with less effort and with more fun.

  7. M V on May 29th, 2009 12:36 am

    1. All mtn bikers wear helmets.
    2. Make sure your brakes work and now how to use them.
    >2a. Buy a Mtn bike Skills book; the one by Brian Lopes is excellent
    3. The specialized Hardrock is a great starter bike and its in your price range.
    4. Bikeshorts are necessary.
    5. A good set of full-fingered gloves (at least $15 or more)
    6. Flat bottomed tennis shoes; no need for hikers or boots.
    7. Start out slow and build your skill set one at a time…start with wheelies after you learn how to brake properly.
    8. Lower your seatpost from the normal sidewalk/street height so you can get your weight back as you need.
    9. Learn to drive your bike….riding is for horses.
    10. Its a freakin blast..I hope you get hooked like me.