The thrills and spills of mountain biking

“One of my least favourite things? Falling off a bike. It’s not just the bit where your body hits the ground, it’s that quite often the bike turns on you, seeking revenge for all those hours of being sat upon. The handlebar takes a stab at hara kiri, the chain rings bite you in the calf, the crossbar seeks to cruel your love life. I was attempting to push these thoughts from my mind in New Zealand last November, while getting ready for my first proper experience of mountain biking.

Instead of being terrified, I found myself laughing like a maniac fool.  

The day before, I’d taken part in the 160km Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, the biggest cycle event in Kiwiland. What better way to warm down than to spend a couple of hours winching myself along winding paths through verdant hills?

I’ve done a bunch of road training and events, commuting, full-pannier touring, I’ve even given tandem riding a go, but apart from a few chunks of unsealed road, it’s always been on tarmac. I’ve never been drawn to MTB, and it doesn’t help that, since I am two metres tall, borrowing one of my runty mates’ bikes hasn’t seemed an option.

This get-out clause was quickly kiboshed when the MTB tour guide dragged an extra-large Specialized Rockhopper out of the equipment shop, and extended its seatpost to a requisite length. I eyed the saddle height nervously. You know what they say about “the bigger they are, the harder they fall”? It’s all true, trust me.

A short shuttle trip to the trailhead, some quick instructions (“keep your arms bent, watch the front brakes”) and we were soon delving into the Tongariro National Park on the Great Lake Trail. On a difficulty scale from one to five, it’s graded a mighty … er … two. I was already punching above my beginner’s weight!

The first section was mostly flat and winding, giving a chance to build confidence. This terrain gave way to a steady descent. After a few “moments” my confidence was growing, aided by a well-designed track that always seemed to have an extra bit of width or a section of speed-scrubbing uphill when I most needed it.

I’d hoped the downhill would go on forever, but this notion was cruelled when we arrived at the lake’s edge. The tiny, unspoilt bay was accessible by path only. A group of dusty hikers were standing by the water, and I pitied them for their tedious trudging. Still, what goes down must crawl up …

After much switchbacking, and occasional woeful crashing of gears on my part, we were treated to a glorious, well-earned vista from the ridge above our destination, a town called Kinloch. One more swervy descent, to find out if my new-found MTB skillz were worthy of that “z”!

Remote access .. a mountain biker’s view of Lake Taupo, New Zealand. Photo: Michael O’Reilly

No, I’m going to disappoint you. I didn’t stack it, despite a few sketchy seconds when I was a millimetres away from a dusty, skin-scraping slide down a steep slope. I’m still not sure how I avoided disaster – a triumph of luck over likelihood – but instead of being terrified, I found myself laughing like a maniac fool.

Back in Sydney, and my thoughts have often drifted back to just how fun that all was. It reminded me of trail-running, back in the days before the knee surgeon said, and I quote, “no more trail-running for you”. Best of all, it was several hours of cycling without having to cope with cars – a wilderness experience and workout wrapped into one.

Of course, there’s an obvious tipping point between me and MTB – buying a new bike. I’ve already got two bikes cluttering my no-garage apartment. (Plus that spare frame in basement storage that I can repurpose as a fixie once I find a decent pair of skinny jeans.) Then it’ll be the MTB shoes and all the other bits and bobs. Day-long trips to the Blue Mountains, mud management lest I wreck the carpet …

Then again, a quick interweb search shows I can pick up a respectable entry-level bike for a little over a grand. I could sell it if I wasn’t having any fun, surely? It’s a slippery slope as perilous as the one I so narrowly avoided in New Zealand.

If you’re a mountain biker, what got you into MTB, and what keeps you interested? If you’re not … why not?

The writer was a guest of Destination Great Lake Taupo.

http://www.smh.com.au/executive-style/fitness/blogs/on-your-bike/the-thrills-and-spills-of-mountain-biking-20130311-2fuu7.html

I can just picture this ride, and I love the photograph of him overlooking the prize of such a beautiful vista. Mountain biking definitely has its own set of beauty and thrills. Because of that it’s rare to find a retired rider.

(author unknown)

“Mountain bikes don’t just look different from the road bikes – they are different, which means that even the most knowledgeable road cyclist isn’t necessarily prepared to shop for a mountain bike. 

Before you grab your checkbook and head for the bike shop, consider that there are a few things you must know in order to select the proper bike.

Frame Size: For better ground clearance, the bottom bracket on a mountain bike is an inch or more higher than on a road bike. This, plus the need for greater crotch clearance when off-road riding, means you need a mountain bike with a frame size 3 to 4 inches smaller than that of a properly fitted road bike. (The frame size is measured along the seat tube.)

If you’re unsure about the exact frame size, opt for the smaller one. Thanks to extralong seatposts, you’ll still be able to achieve your optimum pedaling height. Plus, the lower the top tube, the farther you’ll be able to drop your seat (using the quick-release mechanism) for extra stability on treacherous descents.

Handlebar reach. The rules normally used to determine ideal top tube and stem length for road bikes don’t apply to mountain bikes. In fact, for a given frame size, the distance between seat and handlebar can vary by an inch or more between models.

While there is no consensus, race-oriented bikes generally stretch out the rider more than leisurely designs. The only way to find your ideal reach, however, is by experimenting with different models. As with drop-bar road bikes, substituting a longer or shorter stem can help fine-tune reach. If the bike in question uses one-piece, triangulated Bullmoose-type bars, replace the whole unit with a separate bar and stem.

Riding position can also be modified by adjusting the step up or down or changing to a handlebar that sweeps farther back. Shortening wide bars with a hacksaw or pipe cutter can make a mountain bike more comfortable, too. We’ve seen bars on some production mountain bikes as wide as 32 inches, which results in a rather unusual riding position. Find your ideal width by gradually moving your hands closer together while riding. Many off-road experts prefer bars with 21- to 24-inch widths.

Frame geometry. There’s little agreement among mountain bike manufacturers as to the best frame angles, so expect to see many different designs. But, as is true with road bikes, the most agile mountain bikes have short wheelbases (around 42 inches), short chainstays (17 inches or less), and steep had tube angles (70 to 72 degrees).

Such a configuration aids climbing by positioning the rider more directly over the rear wheel (improving traction), and providing responsive steering at slow climbing speeds.

Often, the best-climbing mountain bikes are racing models with ultralight, sub-17-inch chainstays. Their only drawback is that such a tight rear end may not provide enough clearance for wide 2.125-inch tires. This is why some racing models come with a narrow rubber. Check the clearance of the tires you plan to use, front and rear, before deciding.

Some sport mountain bikes (typified by the early model Stumpjumper) feature longer chainstays (up to 18.5 inches), a stretched out 43- to 44-inch wheelbase, and a more slack 68- to 69-degree head angle. These bikes are more stable on fast descents and more comfortable on bumpy roads, but less agile.

The more common advice is to try riding both extremes to see which you prefer. If neither is to your liking, split the difference with a bike having 17-inch chainstays, a 70-degree head angle, and a 42.5-inch wheelbase. These approximate the specs for the typical sport mountain bike.

A mountain bike’s seat tube angle has little effect on handling or rider comfort, but it does affect pedaling efficiency. The theory behind the shallow 68- to 70- degree angles found on some mountain bikes is that mountain bikers pedal more slowly and powerfully than roadies. Allowing them to sit farther back in the so-called power position facilitates this.

While such a configuration is well suited for steep climbs, it forces the rider to perch uncomfortably on the saddle nose when spinning. Most mountain bike designers now agree that the seat tube angle that works best approximates that of a road bike.

Crankarm length. Because the terrain if often steep and the cadence slow, an off-road cyclist needs longer crankarms. For instance, the midsize rider who turns 170mm cranks on a 21- to 23-inch road bike will find 175mm cranks on most 19- to 20-inch ATBs. Big riders who require a 22-inch or larger mountain bike can easily use 180mm cranks, although few bikes come with this size.“

http://intelpages.hubpages.com/hub/Buying-a-Mountain-Bike-What-you-need-to-know

We love mountain biking and want you to find the best mountain bikes to consider for your new purchase. It can make all the difference in whether you continue with mountain biking and truly enjoy it.

Please check out our mountain bike reviews for some great ideas.

The bike offers such additional features as 21-speed SRAM grip shifters for fast, easy gear changes, a Shimano TX-31 rear derailleur, an SR Suntour alloy crank, Promax alloy linear pull brakes, a swept-back upright handlebar with an adjustable stem, fenders, and a rear gear carrier.

Padded saddle with suspension seat post for a cushy ride. Swept-back upright handlebar w/ adjustable stem for customized comfort. Fenders and rear carrier for convenient city riding in all weather.

The bike also includes a Shimano rear derailleur and 21-speed SRAM MRX twist shifters, making it easy to shift gears whether you’re on a straightaway or approaching a hill. Other details include a comfortable ATB saddle, lightweight alloy rims with MTB hubs, an alloy front disc brake and linear pull rear brake, black MTB wheels, a three-piece crank, and an MTB handlebar and stem.

Specifications

• Frame: Alloy with heavy-duty rear shock absorber
• Fork: Front suspension
• Rear derailleur: Shimano
• Speeds: 21
• Shifters: SRAM MRX twist
• Front brake: Alloy disc
• Rear brake: Alloy linear pull
• Saddle: ATB
• Handlebar: MTB
• Rims: Alloy with MTB hubs
• Crankset: 3 piece

The Woodland women’s 26″ is designed for peak performance under rugged conditions, 21 speed Mongoose Woodland will tackle all your off-road and in-city journeys with ease. It offers an alloy frame with a full (or dual) suspension, which adds a heavy duty shock absorber to the back wheel in addition to the front fork suspension.

This full suspension provides more comfort and greater control as you attack the trails. It has 21-speed shifting with a Shimano rear derailleur and SRAM MRX shifting. Other features include a comfortable ATB anatomical saddle, lightweight alloy rims with MTB hubs, alloy front disc brake and linear pull rear brake, black MTB wheels, three-piece crank, and an MTB handlebar and stem.

The Shimano TX-31 rear derailleur and SRAM 21-speed grip shifters, meanwhile, give you a host of gear options for flat or hilly rides. And riders will love the 700cc rims and 700 x 38c hybrid tires, which are thinner than mountain bike tires but sturdier than most road bike options. Other features include an SR Suntour front derailleur, an alloy adjustable stem with a 30mm rise comfort bar, and alloy linear pull brakes.

Specifications

• Frame: 17-inch aluminum hybrid
• Fork: SR Suntour suspension
• Crankset: Suntour alloy with 28/38/48T
• Bottom bracket: Cotterless 3-piece
• Pedals: Steel-cage platform pedal
• Front derailleur: SR Suntour
• Rear derailleur: Shimano TX-31
• Shifters: SRAM grip shift
• Cog set: 13-28, 7-speed freewheel
• Chain: KMC Z-51
• Rims: Alloy, with 24-hole grouped spokes and ground sidewalls
• Hubs: Alloy with front QR
• Spokes: 14G black
• Tires: 700 x 38c hybrid
• Brakes: Alloy linear pull
• Brake levers: Alloy 4 finger
• Handlebar: Schwinn hybrid riser bar
• Stem: Alloy adjustable
• Grip: Schwinn dual-density Kraton
• Saddle: Schwinn hybrid
• Seat post: Alloy

Other details include a comfortable ATB anatomic saddle, lightweight alloy rims with MTB hubs, alloy linear pull brakes, an MTB handlebar and stem, and a three-piece crankset.

Specifications

• Frame: Aluminum full suspension
• Fork: Front suspension
• Rear derailleur: Shimano
• Speeds: 21
• Shifters: SRAM MRX twist
• Brakes: Alloy linear pull
• Saddle: ATB
• Handlebar: MTB
• Rims: Lightweight alloy with MTB hubs
• Crankset: 3 piece

Combining the perfect blend of hardtail performance with rugged utility, the Lux is a value oriented build ready for any new rider or trail enthusiast. Interested in a bike that’s tailored to the woman rider?

Welcome to Devine Designs – our line of bikes that pays tribute to women riders. The collection features bike geometries built for our smaller frames; colors that reflect our tastes in aesthetics; and overall models that speak to our practical notions of comfort and affordability. We’re confident you’ll enjoy the ride: We worked hard to make it Devine.

  A Shimano drivetrain provides 21 gears to help you climb up anything and the Tektro alloy linear pull brakes will help you stop on the way down. The double wall alloy rims provide stability and comfort for the entire ride.

The 2012 Diamondback Lustre 2 is black in color and comes in 3 sizes: WXS (13″), WS (15″), WM (17″). Whether you are looking to ride around town, the neighborhood or paths, the Lustre 2 has you covered.

The 24-speed Shimano trigger shifters, meanwhile, make it a breeze to change gears while on the move. Finally, the Status 3.0′s front and rear disc brakes provide great braking power in all conditions. Other features include a Shimano rear derailleur for all types of riding, a Suntour crank and alloy pedals, alloy rims, front and rear quick-release hubs, and an oversized threadless headset.

The length of the frame from dropout to dropout is 43- Inch. The length from the head tube to the rear dropout is 41-Inch. The frame size is a large.

Details

Interested in a bike that’s more tailored to the woman rider? Welcome to Devine Designs – our line of bikes that pays tribute to women riders. These aren’t men’s mountain bikes painted in pastel. No, at Diamondback, we started from the ground up, considering every aspect of the female cyclist. The collection features bike geometries built for our smaller frames; colors that reflect our tastes in aesthetics; and overall models that speak to our practical notions of comfort and affordability.

With Devine Designs, you’ll find the same devotion to technology and elegant craftsmanship that’s engineered into all of our Diamondbacks—in designs specifically tailored to you. We’re confident you’ll enjoy the ride: We worked hard to make it Devine. At the heart of each Lux Sport 29 is our rugged Women’s Specific Butted 6061-T6 aluminum frame with formed top and down tubes providing strength and style with clean lines. The DB Snake stays add strength and style while a replaceable hanger add the finer touches. The components provide more proof of our commitment to providing you with the most appropriate package and value for your money. Nimble yet stable, this platform is a very solid trail performer. The SR Suntour XCT fork has an ample 80mm of travel to keep rocks and roots from making your hands numb on the trail.

• Lightweight Aluminum Women’s-Specific Trail Frame, a V- brake is that disc brakes have far superior stopping power and are less wear and tear on the rim? which in this case just happens to be 32h Weinmann SL-SR Suntour XCT 80mm Travel Suspension Fork
• Shimano FC-M171 Crankset , this gives the bike a stable and controllable footing.
• Wrapped in Wolverine Comp tires by WTB
• 32h Weinmann SL-7 Doublewall Rims
• The stopping power comes from Tektro NOVELA disc brakes with 6″ rotors. The advantage of a mechanical disc brake over
• Tektro NOVELA Brakes w/ 3 Finger Women’s-Specific Levers
• Diamondbacks signature alloy stem and Lazer Bar are Devine women’s-specific width and low rise to create the perfect riding position for the female rider