Hard Tail Mountain Bikes

Hard Tail Mountain Bikes

Scouting for a great hard tail mountain bike

    

     Last week we had someone shopping for a hard tail mountain bike at our Huntington Park location.  He had heard that they are for beginners so that's what he had in mind.  Hard tails are not only for beginners which is why I decided to write this article.  Many mountain bikers prefer the hard tailed mountain bikes because of their simplicity. They are the perfect choice for beginner mountain bikers. They are easy to handle on technical trails. They are also easily maintained making them the best mountain bikes for learning. Some mountain bikers may despise the hard tail mountain bike for its simplicity.  They go to more high tech bikes with suspensions. Surprisingly, if the hard tail mountain bike falls into the hands of an experienced mountain biker, you will realize its unmatched qualities; its toughness, its agility, its pedaling efficiency, just mentioning a few. No wonder most experienced mountain bike racers prefer the hard tail mountain bike to other types of mountain bikes. The hard tail is the most versatile type of mountain bike today. It serves even cyclists who have no interest in single-tracking and off-roading such as urban cyclists. Whether you are an urban cyclist, a beginning mountain biker or an expert mountain biker, the hard tail will suit your need and style. So how do you choose a perfect hard tail for yourself?

     

    When you are up to buying a hard tail mountain bike, it is worth scouting around and make sure you get the right bike that suits your needs. Your budget, your riding style, your physical features and your passion. Buying the perfect bike for you is worth the time and hassle. It is also worth the money spent because you do not want to worry about upgrading or reselling your bike too soon.

The Shop Attendant

   To begin with, it is a good idea to have an extensive chat with your nearest bike shop attendant. They always know a lot about what they are selling and can point you to the right direction. Sometimes it may look like they are trying to fleece you; but in most cases, they are guiding you away from a bad decision. It is also helpful to engage in an extensive chat with an experienced mountain bike cyclist. The shop attendant can get you in touch with one or two who can share their experiences in mountain biking.

The Wheels on your mountain bike

    Hardtails come with three different sizes of wheels to choose from. The 26”, the 27.5”, and the 29”. The 26" hard tail has enjoyed popularity for a very long time. However it is slowly being overtaken by the new 29” hard tail which is more stable in maintaining momentum and rolls over obstacles more easily. On the other hand, the 27.5” hard tail is a nimble and fast accelerating bike. Your ultimate choice should be dependent on the type and condition of your local trail, and the purpose of the bike.

The Mountain Bike Frame

    When choosing the kind of frame on your hard tail, your budget will play a huge role in determining the frame that you will finally settle for. An alloy frame with good specs such as the drivetrain, forks and wheels can be a good choice as opposed to carbon frames with cheap components that will force you to upgrade or resell your bike.

A high quality hard tail frame directly translates to a better ride. Considering that a hard tail frame is what receives all the shakes and bumps at the rear end, a quality alloy frame will offer a much more comfortable ride than a cheap carbon frame.

The Front Suspension on your mountain bike

   

 The ability of a mountain bike to cope with trail riding is heavily dependent on the front forks. A good hard tail’s front suspension will feature external adjustments like an air spring and a tapered steerer. Hardtails with thin stanchions and little or no adjustments are of low quality and may flex on rough riding.

The Purpose; Racing or Trailing on a mountain bike

    If you are out for racing, then a light-weight carbon hard tail will suit you best. However, for the sake of comfort, a bike with a relaxed geometry would be appropriate for both racing and trailing cyclists. Since a hard tail is a versatile bike that suits any type of biking, you can simply opt for a decent trail hard tail.

The Drivetrain and Brakes on a mountain bike

    The drivetrain and the brakes are very important components of a mountain bike. They should never be overlooked. However, making a good choice of these components depends on the choice you have made for the frame and your overall budget. The drivetrain and the brakes mostly mirrors the choice of your frame which we have already talked about. If your budget is very tight, you might end up with components that are designed for recreational riding. More expensive hard tail frames comes with durable and reliable components that can be used for single track trails and even racing. Therefore, to get the right drivetrain and brakes, it is imperative that you match your budget with the purpose and style of your riding.  If you are looking for reviews on hard tail mountain bikes check out this review on hard tail mountain bikes vs. full suspension mountain bikes. 

Your Local Trails and Your Abilities

   In conclusion, the hard tail mountain bike performs differently in the hands of an expert and the hands of a beginner. Therefore, before buying a hard tail, you must know your mountain biking skills and abilities compared to your local trails. You should consider charting with your local mountain bike dealer about the local trails you intend to ride on and you mountain biking skills and abilities. You can find a lot more information on hard tail mountain bikes on the about website. This way you will be able to make a better choice of the bike that will serve you best.  If you have any questions on hard tail mountain bikes give Blue Sky Cycling a call.  The mountain bike professionals will answer all your tough questions.  

Blue Sky Cycling - Mountain Bike Parts Specialist 2530 Randolph St.

Huntington Park, CA 90255

(323) 585-3934 info@blueskycycling.com

Mountain Bike Parts Information For First Time Buyers

Mountain Bike Parts Information For First Time Buyers

Information On Mountain Bike Parts For First Time Buyers

 
 Bicycles were invented in the 19th century. Since then, bicycles have become popular and have been adopted for various purposes in our lifestyles. The invention of bicycles has made an enormous impact in our society today. Bicycles have played a role in shaping our culture, our economic state and our industrial methods.  In many urban, sub urban and rural areas today, the bicycle is being used as the principal means of transport. We have adopted bicycles into our recreational activities, fitness programs, courier services, and many more activities. The bicycle is useful in a wide variety of activities. Each activity demands special shapes, sizes and functionality of the bicycle. With the advent of computer aided design and manufacture, different types, shapes, sizes and functionality of bicycles have been developed to suit specific needs.  You can also find information on mountain bikes on Wikipedia.


    A good example is the mountain bicycle, famously known as the mountain bike (MTB). This is a bicycle designed specifically for off-roading. You can think of it as a 4 wheel drive (4X4) SUV version of the bicycle. They are specifically designed to be literally ridden on unpaved terrains such as single tracks, mountain trails, logging roads and fire roads. These kinds of unpaved terrains feature steep inclining and declining grades, roots, loose sand and gravel, ruts and rocks. The special design of mountain bikes equips them with the ability to handle theses terrains with common obstacles like drop offs and logs.

The major noticeable differences between a mountain bike and a regular bicycle include the Mountain Bike Parts such as:

• The Suspension – Most mountain bikes are fitted with suspension. Depending on the terrain and activity the bike is made for, some mountain bikes may not have any suspension, some may have only the front suspension, while others have both the front and rear suspension.

• The tires – The tires on a mountain bike are very large and thick. They are made of more durable materials than a regular bike’s tires. The heavy duty tires are the appropriate tires for off road biking.

• Brakes – The braking system on a mountain bike is made in such a way that the cyclist can make a powerful sharp brake using very small amount of pressure on the brake levers.

• The gears – To cater for climbing steep grades, riding on poor traction terrains like mud and sand, getting high speeds in favorable conditions, mountain bikes are fitted with a combination of high gears and very low gears.

    Mountain bikes are specially designed and manufactured to suit off road cycling activities. They can be used for fitness programs, fun and recreational activities, racing and many more. All these done in unpaved or off road terrains. There are a wide range of activities and terrains out there. Therefore, mountain bikes have been refined and redesigned into different types to suit more specific activities and terrains. Let us have a deeper insight on the types of mountain bikes available today.

Based on the suspension, we can classify mountain bikes into four types.

1. The Rigid Mountain Bike: This is a mountain bike with no suspension. It has a rigid fork and a rear that is fixed on the frame. If you need an MTB and you are in a really tight budget, this one is perfect for you. It is cheap and easy to maintain.

2. The Hard Tail Mountain Bike: This one has got only the front suspension. It is called a hard tail because its rear is stiff compared to its front, due to lack of suspension.

3. A Soft Tail Mountain Bike: Like the hard tail, the soft tail has got a front suspension. It also has a small feel of suspension in the rear. Its rear suspension is made possible by a flex of the frame rather than pivots.

4. The full Suspension Mountain Bike: This one has both the front and the rear suspensions. It also features a rear shock absorber that allows the rear wheel to move on pivots.
Apart from classification based on the suspension, MTBs can also be classified according to the type of ride they are made for.

Cross-Country Mountain Bikes

    These bikes are designed for long distant cycling on walking trails with minimum or no obstacles. They are also good for climbing and riding small down hills. Of all the types of MTBs they have the most efficient pedaling systems. They are able to handle small jumps and light drops though not very comfortably. Most cross country mountain bikes are hard tails or soft tails.  All-Mountain Bikes
An All-Mountain bike is made to suit custom built trails and trail centers. They are designed for cyclists who need to climb uphill easily and then come down hard on the downhill. Most of these bikes fall in the category of full suspension mountain bikes. The rare suspension enables the cyclist to take hard jumps and drops without compromising on the speed.

Downhill Mountain Bikes

    Downhill bikes are designed for the roughest downhill terrains. It is all about staying in one piece while riding hard on the roughest terrains. They are able to handle big drops and can make jumps as high as 20 feet look and feel very easy. They are full suspension mountain bikes with very huge rear suspension. To achieve the downhill ability, the uphill pedaling capability has been compromised and can be very difficult compared to the other types of mountain bikes. Nevertheless, they offer a smooth, silky, gliding experience, comfort and confidence on the downhill ride.

   There are many different types of mountain bikes that will fit your level of skill and style of riding.  We always recommend you research as much as possible to determine which type of mountain bike fits your style of riding.  Some bike shops will let you test ride mountain bikes to make sure you are comfortable with the bike.  This is highly recommended.  If you have any questions make sure to locate a bike shop in your area and speak with a mountain bike professional who can help you make the right choice. You can also check reviews on bike shops to determine which shops might have better service too.  If you are in the southern california area of Los Angeles you can stop by Blue Sky Cycling for help.  They have a vast amount of knowledge on mountain bikes and will answer all your questions with respect to mountain bike suspension, brakes, gears, tires, pedals, and seats.  They have a nice size bicycle shop.   We hope you enjoyed our article on the different types of mountain bike parts for first time buyers.

BLUE SKY CYCLING
www.blueskycycling.com
2530 Randolph St.Huntington Park, CA 90255

Toll Free: 1-800-585-4137Tel: 323-585-3934Fax: 323-585-3405info@blueskycycling.com

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Want the best mountain biking accessories? Blue Sky Cycling has everything from bike parts to the gear you take with you. Browse our selection today. http://www.blueskycycling.com/

26", 27.5, 29er Mountain Bike Tires, and 700c Road Tires on Sale

26", 27.5, 29er Mountain Bike Tires, and 700c Road Tires on Sale.
Save on Top Brands from Kenda, Hutchinson, Schwalbe, and More! Great savings up to 75% off Mountain Bike Tires, and Road Bicycle Tires.
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Ergon Grips Small or Large? What Size do I need?

Ergon Grips Small or Large? What Size do I need?

Ergon offers most models in 2 sizes: Small and Large. The Small and Large label refers to how thick or thin the grip is. There is no difference in the length or ‘wing’ size between the Small and Large. The small grip is best for riders with small hands, those wearing thick padded gloves, and riders riding/racing technical mountain bike terrain. The large grip is best for riders with large hands, commuting, and city riding. We highly recommend visiting an Ergon dealer to get ‘hands on’ with the grip you are considering purchasing. For further details, including images please see http://www.ergon-bike.com/us/en/blog/?p=4893

Time to revisit this most common question we see daily via email, Facebook, Twitter, and phone calls. So, as a rider you ask yourself “Which size do I need?” While it may seem complicated, it’s not.

The Small and Large label refers to how thick or thin the grip is. This can easily be seen in the images above. We used the GP3 as an example.

The Large size has more rubber, better suited for those that like a thicker grip to hang onto. The Small size has less rubber, best suited for those liking thinner grips.

Both the Small and Large fit the same handlebars. Both the Small and Large have the same wing size. Both the Small and Large are the same length. Thickness is the only difference.

All the grip models in the Ergon lineup, minus the GA1 Evo and GE1, come in the option of Small or Large.

When deciding on purchasing any Ergon grip model, these are the 3 questions you must ask yourself prior to purchase…

1. Which grip model suits me best for my intended riding style?
2. Which size do I need? Small or Large?
3. Which configuration of grip will I need? Standard length, GripShift length, or Nexus/Rohloff/XX1 length?

Ultimately, the size you choose comes down to personal preference and the configuration you choose is dictated by the shifting system you have on your bicycle.

We hope this helps you in your next Ergon purchase.

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Avid BB7 Mountain Bike Mechanical Disc Brake Combo Kit

The Avid Mountain Kit offers the top of the line Avid BB7 Mountain 160mm Disc Brakes, with upgraded Avid's HS-1 Heat shedding rotors, Avid Speed Dial 7 levers, and Shimano SLR Mountain Brake Cable Kit. The Avid BB7's mechanical disc braking system for mountain bikes provides tenacious power and superb modulation without having to upgrade your levers or bother with hydraulics. Beautiful modulated power, easy-to-use adjustability the BB7s set the standard in the realm of mechanical disc brakes. Who said mechanical disc brakes didn't have the same stopping power as hydraulics? The Avid BB7 respectfully silenced the critics by providing consistent, and superb braking power. Sram also provided an inboard and outboard adjustor knobs, Tri-Align Caliper Positioning System, and integrated Cable Stop spring tension adjustment ensures that our standard is everyone else’s goal.

MSRP 258.00 On Sale 99.98! Sale Expires 1-26-2015




Features
Tri-Align Caliper Positioning System
Another original Avid technology making your life better—there’s never been an easier brake to install and adjust. With Avid’s Tri-Align™Caliper Positioning System™, aligning the caliper to the rotor literally takes seconds. Just loosen the CPS™ bolts a little, and then squeeze the brake lever while re-tightening the bolts. Perfect caliper alignment—just like that.




The Speed Dial 7 "Seven" Brake Levers are smooth and powerful! Can be used with linear pull, or mechanical disc brakes. Extremely easy to install and adjust, allowing you to dial in the modulation just the way you like it.



Avid's HS-1 Heat Shedding Disc Brake Rotor. Utilizing cross-drilled technology, the lightweight HS series stays cooler when your run heats up, offers enhanced wet-weather performance and takes braking to a whole new level of smooth.


Shimano Mountain Bike Brake Cables. The Shimano Brake cables and housing kit works with all style v-brakes, linear pull, and are also compatible with cable-actuated mechanical disc brakes. The Shimano Brake Cable and Housing Kit includes front and rear cables, Shimano 5mm housing, (4)sealed ferrules and (2) cable ends. The Shimano Brake Cables and housing kit is compatible with all primary component systems.

Endura Mountain Bike Cycling Shorts

Endura Born in Scotland ridden around the World.
Blue Sky Cycling Your source for Bicycle parts, Bicycle Clothing, and Bicycle Accessories.
We offer the Hottest Products at the Lowest Prices Guaranteed!
If you are looking for a great pair of bicycle shorts to wear over your lycra padded shorts, the Endura Zyme shorts are what we would recommend. The Endura Zyme shorts offers style, and quality without breaking the bank. MSRP $75.00 on sale at our unbeatable price $ 29.98.



Available in Small - XX-Large and in two color options Camouflage, and Charcoal.


The Easycare fabric Looks and feels like cotton but are in fact made of durable, high wicking Nylon. The Endura Zyme Shorts are constructed of a durable pre-washed easycare nylon fabric with wicking finish. The Endura Zyme shorts come without a liner, but you can buy one that fastens to the internal Clickfast popper stud. Clickfast compatible allows any Endura short can click into any Endura baggy short. We like this option as it saves money, and means you can wear your own Lycra shorts underneath. The Endura shorts are very well made and loaded with features such as an adjustable waistband and leg hems, double seat panel and heavy duty double and triple stitch on all seams, Complete with substantial webbing belt with snap lock buckle. Front hip pockets including zipped security pocket. Easy access zipped thigh pockets, a smooth underside to avoid snagging or pressure points, rear jeans pocket, and also Clickfast compatible.

If you're looking for a longer 3/4 Style the Zyme 3/4 shorts are also Available. Comes with all the great features as the Zyme shorts, but in a longer 3/4 cycle fit with adjustable waistband, and articulated Knees. MSRP 85.00 Closeout price at under $40.00 Endura allows you to feel good, look good and ride comfortably.

Easton Carbon MTB Bars

Easton Carbon MTB bars at Blue Sky Cycling. We carry the Best mountain bike gear, mountain bike forks, and best mountain bike accessories!
Blue Sky Cycling has the best prices on Easton Carbon MTB Bars! If you are looking for 31.8mm diameter handlebar with a High Rise 40mm and 685mm in length please look at our 2012 version of the Easton EC70 XC Carbon Handlebar MSRP $140.00 ON Sale 49.98. Limited quantities are available.

Blue Sky Cycling also offers the same Easton Carbon Composite handlebar in a newer design with matte black decals. The EC70 is made with the same carbon composite material that is used in the easton EC90 carbon handlebar. Available in either Low Rise 20mm, or High Rise 40mm with a clamp diameter of 31.8mm, and a length of 685mm. The Easton EC70 XC handlebar is the ideal carbon handlebar for the hardcore trail riders! Extremely light at 155 grams this handlebar will shave a few grams off your aluminum handlebar. Other specifications include a 5 degree upsweep, with the 9 degree bend to offer the rider a comfortable position. MSRP 140.00 On Sale $ 67.98 this option is available in either low, and High Rise.