Collaborative post. Mountain biking – the first images that most likely will come to mind are the lush green surroundings and wide open spaces with fully-geared bikers riding mountain bikes through those terrains carefree.

Yes, mountain biking is an exciting hobby that has become a global rage in the last decade or two. While this form of sport/exercise is the same as cycling by definition, it is usually performed mainly in rough terrain such as steep hills, rocky roads, dirt trails, forest trails, etc but that’s not to say you can’t use your mountain bike for other purposes such as cycling to work or a bike ride to the local park.

Mountain biking is a fantastic way to be active, discover new places, and take in some of the most breathtaking scenery there is. Finding the ideal mountain bike can be difficult, regardless of whether you are just starting out or have extensive riding expertise. Because there are so many different options to choose from on the market, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the criteria that should guide your decision-making before making a purchase.

Now that this sport has caught your attention, we understand you are eager to explore and test your mettle against it. So be sure to consider these top five tips before choosing from a wide range of mountain bike models available to you in any well-established bike retailer.

● Terrain – Mountain bikes are made specifically for off-road cycling, so you must decide the terrain you will be riding the bike on. If you plan to ride on rocky terrains, going for a bicycle with a sound suspension system at the front and rear forks is best. A hardtail bike would be better suited if you intend to stick to smooth trails. These bikes have narrow tires and a rigid frame which makes them lighter and easier to navigate turns. Moral of the story; your bikes are built differently based on your usage. Decide on your plan before you make the purchase.
● Frame size – These bikes come in various frames based on the user's body type. It's size will impact your comfort and control. Bikes with more petite frames are agile and easier to handle, while those with oversized frames are more stable and easier to handle in rough terrains. However your height and size of different parts of your body is the most important deciding factor.
● Suspension system – The primary purpose of a suspension system is to absorb shocks and allow the rider to control the bike with relative ease and comfort. A complete suspension system has shock absorbers at the bike's front and rear end, which is suited for rock or rough terrains where control and stability are a must. A hardtail bike usually has a suspension system only in the front and suit for a more accessible trail where agility and manoeuvrability are required.
● Brakes and Gears – Most variants of mountain bikes come with gearing and braking systems explicitly built to handle the terrain they will be used in. They need to be smooth and easy to operate in seconds, allowing the bikers to tackle unpredictable terrains easily.
● Budget – Just because the budget is not a constraint doesn't mean you can buy anything you like, especially if you intend to go out in the wilderness. Mountain bikes come in a wide price range based on brand and product quality. Do your research and then go for the bike to suit your requirement. It’s also worth considering purchasing a bike through a cycle to work scheme, where you can save up to 42% on tax savings and get a brand new mountain bike.

Mountain biking offers riders an exhilarating experience and allows them to connect with nature in a way they have never done before. With a little bit of research and some effort, you can master the art of mountain biking and enjoy the thrill of off-roading in the most scenic places you never knew existed before.