Mountain Bikes (MTB)
It will be impossible to educate you on everything mountain related in this short section. So think of this as a broad brush stroke overview and a starting point.
First, you gotta determine where you'll be riding.
Budget comes later.
If it's with mates on suburban bikes, rail trails and light dirt/gravel tracks, then a recreational hardtail (front suspension only) mountain bike will be fine.
If you're going to be spending more time off-road than on-road, then you need more robust components.
And these cost more.
Then you would consider a performance hardtail or a dual-suspension mountain bike.
Gravel Bikes
Gravel bikes are a cross-between road and mountain bike.
They may look similar to a road bike but they are completely different in the following areas:
- Wider tyres (min. 38mm wide)
- Wider handlebar
- Shorter stem
- Longer and lower frame for extra off-road stability
- More relaxed positioning compared to a roadie
- Some even have front suspension
You'd consider a gravel bike if you're:
- Commuting and want a robust workhorse.
- Want a fast bike that can be used on all road and easy off-road surfaces.
Road Bikes
There are 3 different types of road bikes:
- Endurance road
- Race
- Aero
As a quick summary:
Endurance road bikes deliver comfort and stable handling. And they are great for new riders.
Race bikes are the lightest of the 3. The handling and overall response of Race bikes are more responsive.
These suit riders with good foundational fitness, flexibility and those that have some riding experience.
Aero bikes tend to have the same aggressive posture as Race bikes.
As the name suggests, these bikes are optimised for aerodynamics.
In other words: speed.
Every tube shape on these frames is designed to cut through the air.
Kids Bikes
Kids bikes are measured using wheel size in inches.
Example:
- 12-inch
- 14-inch
- 16-inch etc.
Within each wheels size, different brands have bigger or smaller frames.
For example:
A Mongoose Mitygoose 16's frame is slightly bigger than the Giant Animator 16.
So for taller riders, we suggest the Mitygoose.
City & Hybrid Bikes
City bikes are perfect for riders who are commuting or riding for general fitness in suburbia and inner city.
They are designed for pavement but can handle the occasional smooth dirt and gravels surface.
They don't have suspension either so they are lighter than hybrid bikes.
Hybrids are a lighter, faster and more efficient mountain bike. This is the option you'd consider if:
- You want a bike that can handle a variety of path types (sealed or unsealed).
- You prefer a upright/relaxed riding position.