Comparing Mountain Bikes and Road Bikes

By BikesDirect

Introduction

BikesDirect of Dallas, Texas, stands as the primary seller of high-quality bicycles on the Internet. BikesDirect has provided riders with a variety of options for 17 years, including mountain bikes and road bikes. Bikes Direct is headed by Chief Executive Officer Mike Spratt.

Generally speaking, riders choose between mountain bikes and road bikes, or between bikes designed for off-road terrain and bikes intended for flat, paved surfaces. Mountain bikes can be separated into four major categories: cross-country riding, day-long endurance riding, free riding, or downhill cycling.

Bikes

A quality mountain bike’s frame and rims need to be capable of handling rocks and branches that may obstruct the path, as well as larger logs and even small boulders. Thicker, durable tires play a key part in the sound construction of a mountain bike.

Road bikes can similarly be divided into subgroups, all of which feature significantly narrower tires made with street and sidewalk riding in mind. A lighter frame will not be able to withstand the rigors of off-road riding, though the lighter body is much easier to transport and store between rides.