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| | Mountain Bikes
| An article from Bikes and Bike Helmets
| | Bicycles have been considered as mode of transportation for several decades. In more recent times, cycling has taken on a much more leisurely meaning to many people. They are viewed more as a way to either exercise or an entertaining way to pass the time. For some it is a sport and still others that view it as a lifestyle. No matter how you view cycling, it is sure that there is a bicycle that will fit your needs. A mountain bike is a versatile piece of equipment that fits several different uses.
The most distinguishing feature of this type of equipment is the tires. When they were first conceived, many people called them fat tire bikes. The reason for this is that the tires that are used are much wider and thicker than a standard tire. This extra thickness and tread on the rubber means that you can ride on several different types of terrains and not just on the street or pavement. This design gives you the traction that you need to ride on dirt, grass, or gravel or on a terrain that is a combination of them all.
The frame of this item is also different from your typical frame. They normally use a fairly substantial size tube construction. The result is a frame that is sturdier than average while maintaining a lightweight so that it can be picked up easily. The weight also makes it more efficient for climbing hills or for covering long distances yet maintaining more comfort than a road cycle.
The sport of mountain biking has created specialized features for each genre of the sport. In order to facilitate going downhill at high speeds the frames have been modified with suspension that mimics that of a motorcycle. Another popular genre of the sport is cross-country mountain biking. The specifications for this piece of equipment include a minimal amount of suspension added with super lightweight construction that enables a rider to traverse a large distance no matter the terrain. Several people adapt this cross-country rendition for city use by removing the heavy treaded tires and replacing them with ones with less tread that is more appropriate for pavement use. The result is a comfortable and lightweight urban appropriate piece of equipment.
The materials used in constructing the bicycles are just as varied and also dependent on the type of use. Carbon is typically employed for frames that are used for endurance. Steel and Chromalloy are heavier materials that are used for the bicycles that are made for jumping or speed. Therefore, the next time you go to buy one of these two-wheeled beauties remember all the specialized features. With a little research and thought, you can find one that fits you like a glove.
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