Disc Brakes Or Rim Brakes

This can be a very important
decision when you are buying
a mountain bike. There are
actually two answers to the
question of disc brakes or

rim brakes.

If you want better,
more consistent brake performance in all conditions,
disc brakes are what you should be choosing.
On the other hand, if you want the lightest

set up you can have and you are willing to

accept small variances in brake performance, or you

want the lowest price possible, rim brakes are

what you should be choosing.

Over the years, mountain bikes have gone through

many design changes. They started out with the

original cantilever brakes, then went through the U

Brake years, and are now with V Brakes. In most

conditions, the V Brakes seem to work well.

In wet or muddy conditions, rim brakes will perform

poorly. Over time, they can wear right through the

side of your rim, causing the side of the rim to

blow right off.

Disc brakes on the other hand have been around for

a long time in cars but weren't used on bikes much

until the late 1990's. There were some issues in

the earlier models, although the cable actuated or

hydraulic brakes of today seem to work quite well.

In terms of performance, disc brakes seem to work

better than rim brakes, especially in wet or muddy

areas. Disc brakes normally require less force

to apply and aren't effected by the rim or wheel

condition.

Cost is an issue, as disk brake systems tend to be

more expensive than rim brakes. Mechanical or cable

actuated brakes are a closer match, although they

will still cost more. Hydraulic brakes on the other

hand cost a lot more.

When you make that final choice, weight out the above

options then make your decision. Some riders prefer

disc brakes, while others prefer rim brakes - making it

a matter of opinion.

Different Types of Mountain Bikes

With mountain biking being a very popular sport,

there are many bikes to choose from. Depending

on what type of riding you like, the style of

bikes you can choose from will vary. Below, you'll

find tips on the different types of bikes available.

1. Cross country

Almost all mountain bikes will fit into this category.

Cross country mountain bikes are light weight, making

them easy to ride over most terrains, even up and

down hills. This is the most common mountain bike

and it can be used with ease for riding on the path

or even commuting.

2. Downhill

These types of bikes are for serious bikers who

crave the ultimate adventure. Downhill bikes have

front and rear suspension, strong parts, and disc

brakes. Rarely available off the shelf, most riders

like to custom build their own.

3. Trials

Trail mountain biking involves a great degree of

skill and is classified as the precision riding of

the sport. Similiar to downhill bikes, trial riders

will often build their own bikes rather than purchase

one off a shelf. Generally very light and very

strong, these bikes require a lot of discipline.

4. Jump and slalom

Slalom and jump bikes are very strong and designed

for jumping, street racing, and slalom. They offer

a front suspension and use very strong components

dedicated to what they do. These bikes are very

popular with the sport of mountain biking.

Even if you are new to mountain biking, the sport can

be a lot of fun. There are several bikes to choose

from, all of which depend on your style. If you are

still looking for the best style for you, all you

have to do is try out several bikes and see which one

suites you the best.