I Am Looking For The Best Brand Of Mountain Bike For Riding Flat Ground?

Question by Lukas: I Am Looking For The Best Brand Of Mountain Bike For Riding Flat Ground?
My partner and I are about to buy mountain bikes but we won’t be riding them cross country as we will have our little one with us most of the time, so we need to know the good brands for riding on flat surfaces, grass and dirt roads, not cross country.

We have a Halfords nearby and we were considering looking there but someone else suggested we find the best brand then shop around for a good second hand bike.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

Best answer:

Answer by agb90spruce
Your best choice may not be a mountain bike at all. From the sound of it a hybrid may be a better choice.

Hybrids are kind of a cross between a MB and a road bike. But the best way to think of them is as a bit lighter, narrower/less knobby tired mountain bike. See the link.

However, whether you pick a mountain bike or a hybrid, brand isn’t that important. Stick to a name brand and you won’t go wrong.

What is more important is fit (critical for comfort) and the quality of the components. In general, look for a CrMo or aluminium frame(vs carbon steel), alloy rims and stainless spokes in the wheels and quality alloy components (brakes, shifters, cranks, etc).

In general you will get a better bike for the money by buying used than new, but you have to be able to judge fit (rather than taking advice of the salesperson at a bike shop) and may have to replace some parts (e.g. tires, chain, freewheel, brakes) if they are worn.

While not critical better components stand up much better, can be adjusted easier, and perform better. For example, gears shift better, wheels are lighter and stronger. Lower weight is desireable for any part that must rotate (e.g. wheels, cranks), on the other hand total bike weight isn’t too important if you are aiming for flat riding. That said, a CrMo frame is more comfortable and stronger than carbon steel (normal on department store bikes).

Hope that helps.

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