Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Mountain Bike

Okay, here we go — you want to get into mountain biking. But where do you start? Good question. There is a lot that goes into buying a mountain bike, and one thing becomes obvious very quickly: local bike shops are incredibly helpful.

The good news is that you do not need to know everything before walking into a shop. You just need a basic understanding of the questions you should start asking yourself.

Before Buying the Bike

What size bike do I need?

Bike sizing is one of the most important parts of the process. A properly sized bike will help you learn to ride, create good habits, and get the most out of your bike. Most bike shops can help fit you correctly based on your height, riding style, and the bike brand’s sizing chart.

Hardtail or Full Suspension?

This is one of the biggest decisions for new riders.

Hardtails: are usually more affordable, lighter, and simpler to maintain.

Full suspension bikes: offer a smoother ride and more capability on rough terrain, but they cost more and require additional maintenance.

Think about the trails you want to ride and where you see yourself progressing in the future.

What is my budget?

This part is hard. The best way to look at this section is that there are different tiers of mountain bike prices. $1000 can get you x. $3000 can get you x and then some. But ultimately, talking to the people and bike shops who will get you the bikes is the safest way to get a quote.

What are my riding goals now and in the future?

Are you planning to ride local green trails on weekends? Do you want to progress into jumps, downhill riding, or longer trail adventures someday?

Buying for your future riding goals can help you avoid upgrading too quickly or not buying enough bike initially.

Right After Buying the Bike

Bike racks and transportation

How are you getting the bike to the trail? Depending on your vehicle, you may need a hitch rack, trunk rack, tailgate pad, or another transportation setup. A safe transport system is crucial to the longevity of your bike.

And we’ve seen a lot. So yes, we know you need a good rack.

Storing the bike

Think about where the bike will live when you are not riding. Garages, apartments, sheds, and indoor wall mounts all create different storage needs. Also give a little thought to where the bike will be on the off-season.

Tubeless or tubed tires?

Many mountain bikes now come tubeless-ready.

Tubeless tires: help reduce flats and improve traction

Tubed tires: are simpler and cheaper to maintain

Both systems work — it mostly depends on your riding style and comfort level with maintenance. Check out this post on this topic for more insight.

Clipless or flat pedals?

This is another common beginner question.

Flat pedals: are easier to learn on and allow quick foot placement

Clipless pedals: connect your shoes to the bike for improved efficiency and control

There is no perfect answer here. Plenty of experienced riders use both. Check out the Flats vs Clipless post here.

Looking Forward

These are just a few of the questions you should think about when getting into mountain biking. As you ride more, you will naturally learn what matters most to you.

You will also start considering things like:

• Riding gear

• Helmets and protection

• Tools and maintenance

• Tire upgrades

• Suspension setup

• Nutrition and hydration

• Riding groups and trail etiquette

The important thing is simply getting started.

Final Thought

It may seem redundant and salesy, but the truth is that bike dealers get to see all of the different kids of bikes and riders out there. Then they help match you to the best bike based on the information you give them. So thinking about these questions above will help you navigate the next big purchase you make.

Talk to your local bike shop, ask questions, and focus on getting a bike that helps you ride more often and build confidence on the trail.