Choosing the Right

Downhill Mountain Bike

Eytan Baer

Choosing the Right Downhill Mountain

Bike

A member of high school sports teams ranging from track and field to ski

racing, Eytan Baer has also participated in international Brazilian jiu-jitsu

competitions. He has been admitted to Johnson & Wales University in North

Miami, Florida, where he plans to study event management. In addition to

his school sports, Eytan Baer has participated in horse riding events for over

10 years and recently began downhill biking.

Choosing the Right Downhill Mountain

Bike

For the beginner, choosing a downhill mountain bike is essential to ensuring

a safe, positive experience. The first and most basic step is knowing what

kind of downhill biking you will be doing: the rougher the terrain, the more

difficult and demanding the ride will be. Suspension is an important

element to consider, as bikes have either hardtail or full suspension. The full

suspension is more expensive but gives a smoother ride over rough terrain

and reduces rider fatigue with its front- and back-end shock absorbers.

Hardtail suspension systems have a shock absorber on the front wheel only,

which is sufficient for those who ride occasionally or for people who want to

improve their skills.

Choosing the Right Downhill Mountain

Bike

Tire size and the related frame size are additional elements to consider

when choosing a bike. The two most common tire sizes are 26 and 28

inches in diameter; bikes are made to handle a specific tire size, so take

that into account when comparing bikes. Also, 26-inch tires are the more

common, but-28 inch tires are heavier, with a wider tread for additional

cushioning and more grip on the trail.