Understanding Bike Suspension

by Andy Monthat

One of great sports for anyone who has the desire to seek thrill in life is mountain bike. In order to achieve the best results in mountain biking you have to make correct selection of bike and equipment. The first and the foremost specification that would have a direct impact on your performance is the suspension. You have to know what the available options are and what are their implications or impact on your performance.

How to pick the right bike suspension is one common question that confuses mountain bikers. There are two types of mountain bike suspension, i.e.: full suspension and hard tail or front suspension. Whether you are going to buy a full suspension bike or a hard tail bike, here are some details of both types to help you decide which particular one suited your need.

Full suspension mountain bikes

Full suspension mountain bikes are those bikes that have front and rear shocks absorption mechanism. These bikes are more comfortable and easy to control as compared to hard tail bikes. These bikes are also ideal for events in which you have to remain on your bike for a longer period of time such as cross country racing. The drawbacks of these bikes are they are heavier than hard tails bikes and are also more expensive.

Hard tail mountain bikes

The mountain bikes that have only front shock absorbers are known as hard tail mountain bikes. Although less sophisticated as compared to full suspension bikes, these bikes are very popular as they are lighter in weights and easier to paddle. These bikes offer better pedaling when the terrain is smooth. Hard tail bikes are used by many cross-country racers. Hard tail bikes require less maintenance and are lighter than full suspension bikes.

Now that you have a fair idea about both types of mountain bikes, you may choose the type of mountain bike suspension that suits your need best. Your choice of the types of bikes may make or break your mountain biking experience. So choose wisely!

Every Thing You Should Know About Racing Bike

by Andi Monthat

Before you make a decision as to which racing bike to purchase, you should learn something about racing bikes. Standard bike, time trial, and track racing are some among racing bikes that you can choose from. If you are a road racing biker, the most perfect bike you should choose is standard racing bike. This type of bike is the fastest among racing bikes. Although the rider hunches over this bike, his position is high enough so that he can still see where he is going.

Time trial bike is the second type of racing bikes. This type of racing bike is to be used in a circuit or oval closed road course. It is designed to go incredibly fast while making turn. The riders also hunch over this type of bike. They also have the option to add extensions on the handlebars for comfort and to get a better grip. In order to have a lower riding position, the riders may also attach smaller front wheels.

The third type of racing bikes is track racing bike, which is commonly used in indoor oval circuits. Since this bike does not have any brake, the rider can not make a sudden stop. The only way for a rider to stop is by slowing the pedaling. And this bike only has a single fixed gear. This type of bike is commonly striped down in order to have the minimum required framework so that it is as light and fast as possible.

The faster bike means the lighter one. Making the bikes as light as possible is the dream of every manufacturer. These bikes are also equipped with slick tires which offer very little drag on road surface in order for the bikes to reach maximum speed. The aerodynamic design of the bike and the rider’s position lends itself to the least amount of wind drag possible.

Racing bikes have some drawbacks. Since this type of bike is stripped down to only necessities, racing bikes might be extremely uncomfortable to ride. Because of the position of their riding position, the riders may experience back, neck, and wrist pain. Since the tires are so slick and thin, the vibration of the bikes can also cause discomfort to the riders.

You need to do some research before purchasing any type of racing bikes you are looking for. If you ask for advices from other racers, they off course will happily recommend what types and brands of bikes. You have to have a test drive before purchasing any bike. You have to be sure that you have tested out specific type of bike before purchasing, even if you may be able to find it cheaper on the internet.