A mountain bike’s frame material can significantly affect its ride quality and durability. Choosing the right one will help you enjoy the trail without putting too much strain on your body.
New Zealand’s two main islands are biking wonderland. Explore geothermal landscapes and historic volcanic features while tackling epic descents along awe-inspiring trails.
Frame
A mountain bike’s frame significantly influences handling and ride quality. Depending on your riding style, budget and accessibility to a bike shop, the choice of material can either be a huge help or a significant detriment to the performance of your mountain bike. For the most durable mountain bikes NZ, check this out.
Aluminum is the most popular and affordable mountain bike frame material. It’s lightweight and responsive but lacks the vibration absorbency of other frames. Aluminium is also less durable than carbon fibre and titanium. However, it has evolved substantially since its initial developmental phase in the 1980s and is a highly sought-after option for mountain bikes today.
An aluminium mountain bike is a solid option for novice riders or those on a tight budget. Its stiffness makes it easy to handle and lets you climb steep trails easily. However, it’s inherently heavier than carbon and other materials. Fortunately, advancements in alloy blends and butted tubing are now making it possible to fabricate aluminium mountain bikes that are lighter than ever before.
Steel is another classic mountain bike frame material commonly used for more rugged rides and XC mountain biking. Chromoly, or CrMo, is a high-grade steel alloy often called 4130 by the cycling industry. Compared to other frames, chromoly is inherently dense, but modern technology has allowed manufacturers to reduce its density without sacrificing strength and durability.
Ibis Cycles is a boutique mountain bike brand well-regarded in the MTB community for producing top-notch bikes. The company’s products feature a ‘Goldilocks’ positioning between XC and Enduro mountain bikes. Their trail bikes offer a combination of XC agility and efficiency with enduro-oriented features like slack geometry, extensive suspension travel, and durable components. For the most durable mountain bikes NZ, check this out.
Fork
A mountain bike’s fork determines how well it handles a variety of terrain. It’s essential to choose one that’s compatible with the kind of riding you plan to do. A fork with a lower travel range is better for beginners and those who prefer a smoother ride. Getting a mountain bike with adjustable suspension to suit your riding style is also a good idea.
New Zealand is a mountain biking paradise home to some of the most diverse trails in the world. It’s North and South Islands feature geothermal wonderlands, coastal scenery and temperate forests teeming with adventure-inspiring single tracks. Whether you’re looking for a challenging uphill climb or a fast downhill run, New Zealand has something for every rider.
Whether you’re an avid mountain biker or just getting started, the best mountain bikes will help you quickly navigate these rugged terrains. While you can find second-hand mountain bikes, purchasing a new one offers several benefits. It will come with a manufacturer warranty and is less likely to have previous wear and tear that could impact its performance.
If you plan to take your MTB on a long hike-and-ride adventure, consider signing up for a guided tour. Several companies offer fully-guided bike tours for various biking experiences throughout New Zealand. Some even provide transportation to remote locations. For example, the Ghost Lake Hut MTB Tour is a 3-day hike-and-ride adventure that starts and ends at the rustic Ghost Lake Hut, a basic accommodation in the wilderness of the New Zealand rain forest. You’ll sleep in bunk beds and wake to the call of Bell Birds and the sun rising over the treetops.
Brakes
The brakes of a mountain bike are a crucial component that can make or break the ride. They must be robust and reliable, able to handle heavy use over rough terrain. They must also be comfortable and easy to adjust to fit different riders. When selecting a mountain bike, choose one with disc brakes rather than rim brakes. Rim brakes are less durable and can be susceptible to rust. They also wear out quicker than disc brakes due to their contact with the rim surface.
Most modern mountain bikes are built with front and rear suspension. The dual suspension helps to soften the impact of bumps and drops, making for a smoother ride. They are typically made from carbon, alloy or steel, with carbon being the lightest and most responsive. Ibis Cycles, a New Zealand-based company specialising in MTBs, is renowned for its top-quality bikes. Their famous Mojo carbon full-suspension mountain bike is a favourite of many MTB enthusiasts.
Three main wheel sizes are used on mountain bikes: 26-inch, 27.5-inch (650b), and 29-inch. Choose the wheel size for your needs by considering tyre width and diameter. The wider the tyre, the more grip it will have on the trail. For most beginners, a 23-26 cm wide tyre is ideal. For the most durable mountain bikes NZ, check this out.