Today, mountain biking is the primary recreation choice for millions of people worldwide, young, old and in between. It offers fun, excitement, and a good workout. Definitely the best way to see the countryside.

Naturally, popularity brings more choices and with more manufacturers, brands and different types of bikes available, it can sometimes be quite difficult to choose correctly. In this article we will discuss what you have to look for when shopping for a mountain bike.

The first thing you should decide on is your price range. You can spend a few hundred or a few thousand dollars on a bike. To keep things under control you should determine your price range and look at bikes within that range.

The next important step is to decide what kind of bike is right for you. There are different types of bikes for different needs. You can choose from all mountain, cross country, freeride, downhill or trail. Each type is designed for different terrain and riding style and has its own pros and cons.

One of the most important part of buying a new bike is choosing the right size. If the bike doesn’t fit you, you will be uncomfortable and won’t feel safe. Sizes usually refer to the frame sizes. Here are the most common frame sizes depending on your height: 17″ is for people between 5′4″ and 5′11″, 19″ for those between 5′11″ and 6′2″, and 21″ and up are for people that are taller than 6′2″.

If you choose the right time to buy a bike, you can save quite a bit of money. You should avoid the peak buying season - spring and summer. The best time to buy is fall and winter. In those months sales dip, plus next year’s models come out, so you’re more likely to get a good deal on older models.

And finally, don’t forget about safety and comfort. Helmet, water bottle, gloves, glasses and one of the most important pieces of biking gear you will ever buy - padded biking shorts.

Technorati Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation, sports

Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation, sports

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