With a resurgence of attention being focused on getting fit and exercising these days, it is no surprise, then, that more and more men are taking up the sport of mountain bike riding. For many, though, just getting started can prove to be a challenge since there are so many different varieties of the mens mountain bike on the market today, it can be difficult deciding which one is right for you. For instance, there are so many components on a mens mountain bike such as forks, brakes, cassettes or chains, handlebars and crank sets, to name just a few of the many, that the novice bike rider can get caught up in a swarm of confusion.
Here, then, are some simple ways to determine what to look for when choosing your mens mountain bike. First, you need to make sure the bike is the proper size for you. This is done by measuring the seat tube - the part of the frame that runs from the bottom bracket to the post holding the seat; these are typically between 15 and 22 inches. Ideally you will be present when choosing your mountain bike as you want to ensure a good fit, too large and you run the risk of losing control of the bike at the wrong time, too small and peddling can become quite a problem. To that end, you should straddle the bike with your feet flat on the floor, if the fit is proper, then you should have around 2 to 3 inches of clearance above the bar.
Once you have the correct size, you want to make sure the brakes are of a quality that they will not squeak or cease working in wet, sandy or muddy conditions - ideally, disc brakes are the best solution here. In addition, you want to make sure your suspension and forks can handle anything the road may throw your way. There is nothing worse than riding your mens mountain bike, enjoying the day and then blowing your suspension on a particularly rough patch of trail, potentially leaving you to walk miles carrying your bike.
Riding a mountain bike for exercise can improve your overall health by increasing your strength, balance, flexibility and providing a complete cardiovascular workout all while working your muscles. Having a proper mens mountain bike will make the ride much more enjoyable and by using the guidelines above, you can ensure you will choose a bike that will help make that so.
