Before Buying a
Mountain Bike
This aims to help you make an educated purchase that will
lead you on the right mountain bike.
Know What Type of Biking You Want
This will set the standard of your bike as well as its
price. Mountain bikes are not created equal. They are designed
for a specific style and terrain. Your task is to determine
which type of biking you will be doing most of the time. Are
you going to ride on different terrains or smooth surface? Are
you going to use your bike for serious off-roading or
cross-country expedition? Knowing the answer to these questions
will lead you to the bike you really need.
What to Look For...
Good bikes are comfortable, durable and feature-packed.
While this may cost a lot, it is important to focus your find
within these criteria. Comfort means everything. A bike with an
adjustable seat and good suspension is a must. Durability is
equally essential. Choose between aluminum and steel frame
depending on the type of use. Features can add to the cost of
the bike. You may want to choose which features are necessary.
Again, "good" is always equated with price, at least for
mountain bikes, so if your money doesn't match with the bike
that you want, identify what features you can give up.
Set Your Price
Most mountain bikes are expensive. In fact, there is
virtually no limit to how much you can spend on your bike. But
this should not be the reason to quit your desire to conquer
the mountain. With the right knowledge of what you want your
bike to be, choosing the right bike is made easier. Just
remember that with price comes quality. An $800 bike for
example has more components and is more durable than a $500
one. Here, price really matters but if you are a first-time
buyer, I suggest that you get a basic bike and upgrade as
necessary. This way, you will not waste your money just in case
you decide to hang your bike. Conversely, buying a $2000 bike
is not bad as long as you can afford it. After all, with price
comes functionality and features. The point is, set your price
according to your needs and how much you can afford.
Find a Good Dealer
Finding a good dealer is as good as finding a good bike.
Although you do your research, talking to a dealer's
representative can shed light on the things you want to clarify
and things you still need to know about mountain bikes. Ask
questions about the different types of bikes, its features,
maintenance, maintenance cost and servicing. A good dealer is
more than willing to assist you on these things.
Look for a Good Deal
Nothing could be better than buying a bike that is worth
more than its sticker price. If you want to get more than your
money's worth, do your homework. Find as much information as
you can on different bikes. Read product reviews. This will
take time but is worth every minute. Another sure way to get a
good deal, or even the best deal, is to buy during fall and
winter. Dealers are willing to slash off hundreds of dollars to
the bike's original price to dispose the last year's stocks and
give way to their new designs in summer.
Instinct (or impulse) may tell you to buy certain bike
because it looks good or the price is reasonable but I suggest
that you evaluate and decide out everything that what we have
discussed.
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