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How to Buy a Mountain Bike

Mountain bikes can be expensive. Here are a few things you should consider before buying one.

 

 
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Step One

Keep in mind that decent mountain bikes are lightweight, responsive and easy to handle on challenging trails.

Step Two

Call and visit your local bike shop. Bike store employees can usually help you decide exactly what type of bike you need.

Step Three

Decide how much money you're willing to spend. If you'll be racing, you may need a better (i.e more expensive) bike than one used primarily for recreational trail riding with friends.

Step Four

Experiment with friends' bikes before you buy your own. Ask your friends if they're happy with their bikes and make a mental list of the pros and cons of each bike.

Step Five

Scan the Internet and the local classifieds for used bikes. You can often find exactly what you want for a lot less money than you would pay for a new bike. Bike stores often offer last year's models at significant discounts.

Step Six

Be sure to test-ride a bike before you buy it. Make sure it's the right size and is comfortable to ride. If you buy from a store, ask the salesperson to recommend a proper fit for you based on your personal build.

Step Seven

Ask yourself: Is this the bike I really want? If the answer is yes, buy it.

Tips & Warnings

  • Mountain bikes cost anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars for a new bike; a good beginner's bike with front suspension costs about $600. Cheaper bikes include steel frames, low-end components and no suspension. Working up in quality and price (and down in weight) you'll come across frames of aluminum, carbon fiber and titanium.
  • Don't buy a bike from a department store. Such bikes are usually of very low quality and the employees in these stores will generally have no idea how to ensure you're getting the right bike for you.
 
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