Mountain Bike Frames

Are you in need of a new mountain bike frame?

Did you know that the number of bicycles sold in the country each year is in the millions? Take for example in 2015, a record of 20,200,000 bicycles were sold in the U.S. alone. The number of bicycle frames sold is equally significant.

Making the correct choice while buying mountain bike frames is important because the wrong frame will likely lead to a lack of balance, stability, stance, and ultimately result in a disappointing performance.

When searching for mountain biking gear, you need to make sure that you do enough research and make a decision based on honest, genuine reviews and guides from reputable websites.

Today, 82 percent of people conduct mobile searches before making purchases. This has led to an increase in false reviews by unscrupulous individuals.

To help you choose the right bicycle frame, we have put together a series of things to look out for and consider as you go frame hunting.

 

1. Why is Bike Frame Important? 

The frame is important because it defines the characteristics of the whole bike. It dictates the ride and it defines how the bike is going to perform. When looking at a series of bike frames, don’t forget to ask yourself:

• Is the frame compatible with the rest of the gears?
• Is the frame suitable for the type of ride you want?
• Does the frame justify the price?
• Does the frame suit my lifestyle needs?

 

2. Compatibility 

Compatibility is one of the most important factors to determine while you are going through different mountain bike frames for sale. First, you need to consider the wheel size. Is the wheel size compatible with the wheels that you have at home? The three variations in this regard are 26 inches. 27.5 inch and 29 inches. Never try to think about fitting a 26-inch wheel into a 27.5-inch frame. Even if it is technically possible, it is not suggested at all because it’ll disturb the handling of the bike.

 

3. Fork Travel 

The frame must respond to the fork travel. A slight variation is acceptable but a significant difference e.g. 120mm for 140mm fork is not an option. The experts suggest that you may opt for a longer fork, for instance, 160mm travel along with a 140mm frame. Even in this case (larger fork with shorter frame), don’t try to extend the difference beyond 20mm. Don’t reverse this configuration, i.e. a 140mm frame with 120mm fork because it’ll never help the cause and you will more than likely end up with a sketchy ride.

 

4. Head Tube

The head tubes of the bike frames don’t fit in any fort tube but they require certain compatible measurements. It is necessary to check the steerer tube before selecting the frame. Even if you forgot this factor and selected a frame, we have a solution. You can opt for a conversion headset. By using these conversion headsets, you can fit differing head tubes into the steerer tube. There’s always a way around it, but do consider taking a look at the different types of head tubes first before settling on a bike frame.

 

5. Single Speed Mountain Bike Frames 

If you have developed a passion for the single speed ride, then don’t forget to opt for the frame which serves this specific purpose. Running the chain tensioner is something the bikers want to avoid and this is what forces them to opt for single speed. Before opting for a single speed mountain bike frame, you need not ignore the facts that these frames are tricky when it comes to keeping the wheels straight. If you think about adjusting the rear wheel, in this case, the geometry of the frame will change as a result.

 

Selecting the Right Frame Made Easy

It’s true that selecting the right frame is not always easy. However, if you know what to look out for, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate the myriad of frames you’re going to encounter on your search.

Even though it’s not as simple as we’ve made it sound in this article, armed with the knowledge you’ve acquired here, you’ll be able to select the perfect frame compatible with your mountain biking gear with little to no problems.

If ever you’re in doubt, consult with an in-store assistant who will be more than happy to iron out the finer points with you on what sets two bike frames apart. Make sure to take time while making the decision so you get the best results.