Choosing the Right Bike
Examining the Pros and Cons Between Mountain Bikes and Road Bikes
Can't decide which bike to buy? Before heading to the local cycling shop, you might want to see what each one has to offer. Will it be the mountain bike or the road bike?
Which is better? Mountain Biking or Road Biking? For the serious cyclist, it’s a question often debated. Cyclists who ride the road, "Roadies," will argue that road cycling is better. "Off-roaders" will proclaim there’s nothing more satisfying than negotiating a technical section of trail successfully. So what’s the answer? Well, it depends on several factors.
Road Cycling
Road cyclingis great for speed, distance, and an overall smoother ride. Road bikes typically have a lighter frame and smooth, narrow tires. These give the bike it’s speed. But before pulling out of the driveway, some other things to consider are cars, traffic volume, drain grates, intersections, and dogs.
For leisure rides, pick a route that’s scenic and has less traffic. For speed or distance rides, try to choose a route in the countryside, or least a route that allows long distance rides with a minimum of traffic and stops. Feeling competitive? Ride with a local group or sign up for a race.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking or trail riding, is perfect for that person that wants to test their skills. It also requires a bike with a heavier frame, and wider tires with good tread. Shocks are highly recommended.
Although traffic is no longer a concern, other obstacles, like rocks, tree roots, drop offs, low hanging branches, and wild animals are. Safety, not speed, is the main concern while riding the trails, but don’t be fooled. There are hundreds of off-road competitions held every year and speed counts.
Accessories
Equipment, although similar, also varies. For the road cyclist, weight and wind resistance are very important factors. That’s why so many cyclists wear form-fitting, moisture wicking cycling jerseys and pants. For hydration they will generally use a water bottle either tucked into the back pocket of their jersey, or placed inside the lightweight water bottle cage attached to the bike. Add a saddlebag under the seat for a tire repair kit and they’re ready to go.
The mountain biker doesn’t worry about weight as much as they do comfort. Unlike the narrow seats on road bikes, mountain bikes have wider, more cushioned seats. The bikes also come equipped with suspension and shocks, unlike road bikes which are built for aerodynamics and speed.
Tires are very important. They need to be able to dig in and give the rider the extra traction needed for climbs and descents, quick turns, and even jumps. The trail is ever changing, and both bike and rider have to be prepared to handle whatever’s around the next turn.
With all that work, mountain bikers need a lot of water, so they carry their water in a water-filled bladder with a long drinking tube attached that they wear on their back like a backpack.
How to Choose
So which is better? It just depends on the rider’s preference and skill level, although many riders participate in both styles of riding. Talk to different riders in your area and see what they prefer.
If budget is a consideration, give a little thought to which one is more personally appealing before heading off to the bike shop to pick out your new bundle of joy. Properly maintained, a bike will be with you for years to come. Happy cycling!
