Downhill mountain bike frames provide comfort and stability and resistance on difficult terrains. Keeping the end use in mind these off-road bike frames are usually sold to adventure sport enthusiasts. Who also like to perform stunts on hilly and uneven terrain. Downhill mountain bike frames are getting stronger and  lighter as new technologies, designs and materials are being introduced over a period of time.

Downhill Mountain Bike Frames are designed for a multitude surfaces and terrains; hence the bike design makes it heavier and more stable than a regular bike frame. These frame design makes the bike adept at handling obstacles at high speeds. But it should be mentions these frames are not built for speed they are built to last.

Downhill Mountain Bike Frames use materials made of alloys with a composition of carbon and aluminum.

Carbon being use for increase strength and aluminum makes the frames lighter and easier to handle without compromising on their strength. The unique material used to make the frame is an important factor in designing and making the frame.

Size matters for downhill mountain bike frames

An important feature in the Downhill Mountain Bike Frames is the seven inches of suspension travel which allow accommodating the bumpy ride of the mountain. This also allows the bike to absorb shocks more effectively than any other design. Another special feature of the Downhill Mountain Bike Frames is the slack head angle is angled at 64 degrees. The sag or bend provided by the angle allows for more traction on the mountain.

You can choose the size of your downhill mountain bike frame depending on your height and inseam measurements. The measurement of the bike frame is taken from the center of your head tube to the center of your seat tube. As a general rule the longer your wheel base the more stable your bike will be at high speeds. Taking into account the size and stability is very important if you are going to perform tricks on your bike.

The Downhill mountain bike frames are built particularly to go down a mountain and not for the traditional commuting as they are specifically designed to go down a rocky terrain or a mountain slope and not ride at high speeds on plain surfaces.

Downhill MTB Frames – Suitable for rocky surfaces

Downhill mountain bike frames can be used on a rocky mountain, a ski lift, around the countryside valley and for many adventure sports that are gaining mainstream media attention around the world.

Awareness and demand for these frames has increased over a period of time especially with the advent of television and the news media, as customers are given more options and off-track biking has become a mainstream adventure sport around the world. In conclusion don’t try to go up the mountain using a The Downhill mountain bike frame on your bike. The name The downhill mountain bike frame is given specifically for that very special purpose.

Hardtail MTB Cheaper

Hardtail bikes are much cheaper than full suspension bikes. They are also more sturdy and lighter in weight. They have lesser parts in the frame and no rear suspension. Hardtail mountain bike frames are easy to maintain and their spare parts are also inexpensive. Hard tail bikes are good for somewhat rugged terrain or for bike racing. They are versatile and work for most terrains of cross country. That is why they are popular.

Over the past few years, hardtail bikes have improved a lot in terms of tubing. There are also special bikes for women and people of a small build. In order to give extended support to the bike rider, hardtail bikes have an S-bend seatstay. This makes for comfortable seats on the bike. The hardtail bikes have a derailer hanger that is replacable. Incase the derailler gets crushed, it can be replaced and the whole bike doesn’t become unusable. The tubes are shaped to assist the rider yet make the bike stiff.

Hardtail Mountain Bike Frame Materials

The hardtail bike have frames made of various materials like titanium, aluminium, carbon fibre or steel. These frames are sturdy. The quality of the suspension used in the bikes has also improved in the recently. The brakes used are disc brakes. Even the inexpensive varieties of the hardtail there are good suspension forks. Depending on  the budget and application of the hardtail, the bike variety and accessories can be selected. Buying a hardtail bike in winter months is a good idea since the prices are the lowest at that time of the year.

In terms of hardtail bike frames, steel and aluminium are the most inexpensive and commonly used materials. Carbon and titanium frames are expensive. Titanium frames are resistant to corrosion and are polished. The suspension forks on the bike can be air sprung and light and they can be tuned. The coil spring forks, on the other hand last longer.

Hardtail MTB Brakes

The brakes on the hardtail can be either disk brakes or liner-pull rim brakes. Disk brakes are more durable. Linear pull rim brakes are the more conventional brakes. Their spare parts are easier to find. Disk brakes however work in most unfavourable weather conditions. For hardtail bikes, tubeless tires or any light tires are a good option. Most hardtail bikes do not have pedals or have clipless pedals. In terms of prices and varieties there are a lot of options available. The rider should actually test-ride the bike and see the comfort before buying it.

Conversions in bikes from hard tail to soft tail and vice versa, any other modifications like fixing a water bottle cage on the frame can be made. Certain customers get their mountain bikes made on the basis of their weight, height and inseam measurements. The material used to make the Specialized mountain bike frames is a very important factor to manufacture the frame to meet the requirements of the customers. The weight and strength of the bike will depend a lot on the content of alloy carbon and aluminum used to make the Specialized mountain bike frame.

These bikes are designed depending on the activity the Specialized mountain bike frame is going to be used. Some bikes are used to perform tricks on dirt tracks. Some are used to ride on Rocky Mountains; others are used to move on other unpaved environments. The frames of these Specialized Mountain bikes are made to withstand the stress of the harsh environments.

Specialized Mountain Bike Frames – Size Matters!

The frames of Specialized mountain bike are in most cases made to accommodate large diameter knobby tires. The different applications of a Specialized mountain bike frame is used in is the cross-country, endure and free rider. The wheel base or size of tires is large for mountain bikes but it is usually much larger for Specialized mountain bike frames, it can go up to twenty nine inches or more. Hence keeping that in mind the designing of the frame needs to be done. Because of this special feature Specialized mountain bikes can go at higher speeds than a regular mountain bike.

The Specialized mountain bike frames may also be used to attain higher flexibility than a regular mountain bike frame.

If the customer wants a softer ride on the rough he or she can have suspensions fit both in front and behind making the ride shock proof. This can be an important technical specification to be considered while making specialized mountain bike frames.

Specialized MTB Frames – 40 years old!

Specialized mountain bikes came into the market in 1970s. These bikes were different from regular road bikes. They had wider forks, frames and tires. The handles were straight and mounted transversely. The brake was put on the bike frame and the disk was bolted to the hub using six bolts. Two bolts were used to combine the brake pad assembly to the frame. The bikes had a front suspension fork. This made it easier to ride the bike on uneven terrain.

Specialized bikes are on the heavier side, so that they endure rough patches of land well. They have varying suspension in different areas of the bike. The rear doesn’t have much suspension and has a soft tail. The specialized mountain bike frames are flexible and suited well for the rider’s purpose.

These mountain bike frames became popular during the 90s. Initially the full suspension frames that came out were bulky and made riding the bike difficult. There were problems with the brakes and a lot of effort was required while riding up hill. These problems were solved by Mert Lawwil. He designed full suspension mountain bike frames, known as Gary Fisher RS – 1. It had an A arm suspension design and four- bar linkage which was a new concept for full suspension mountain bikes of the time. Certain problems in the bike were then rectified by Horst Leitner, who came out with a bike known as Horst Link. His company, AMP, was involved in Research and manufacture of Mountain Bikes. AMP manufactured Full Suspension Mountain Bikes for about 10 years.

Full Suspension MTB – Made for Downhill ..

For mountainous downhill terrain, full suspension bikes are the best option. These bikes are preferred by professionals due to the front and rear suspension in the entire body frame. The bike is meant for heavy duty use on the most rough terrain.

Bikes with a full suspension are meant for heavy duty usage. The rear suspension is especially to absorb the bumps that are associated with rugged terrain. They make it easier for the rider to pedal and control the bike.

A full suspension frame is more expensive than say, a hardtail bike. The rear suspension also makes the bike heavy. This additional weight on the bike frame makes it more difficult while climbing uphill and consumes more energy of the rider.

Full Suspension – Worth its weight (well not literally)..

Although these are disadvantages of the full suspension mountain bikes, the many advantages that outweigh the cons. The bike is very comfortable while riding and when riding downhill, the bike frame works very well. The bike is just as good on rough terrain as on the pavements. The rider also has an option to lock out the full suspension.

The full suspension bike also has to oiled and serviced regularly especially the rear suspension. Is this is not done, the bike’s chain may break unexpectedly.

The full suspension bike frame may be made up of various materials, like aluminium, carbon fibre, steel and titanium. Titanium frames are resistant to rust and corrosion. They are polished, not painted. The lighter the material of the frame, greater the expense of the bike. The rear derailleur hanger is replaceable and can be replaced easily when required. The brakes on the bike are either  disk brakes or liner-pull rim brakes. The best option for full suspension mountain bikes is fully hydraulic disc brakes. These brakes are good during muddy and rainy conditions.

Special full suspension mountain bike frames for women are available. They have a smaller, lighter frame and a wider saddle.

As mountain bike frames go, a single speed bike is much more sturdy than a geared bike. It is also much easier to maintain. While gaining speed also, a single speed bike is much faster than a geared bike.

Types of Bikes using Single Speed Bike Frames:

• BMX Bikes
• Most children’s bikes
• Cruiser bikes
• Classic commuter bikes
• Unicycles
• Track racing bikes
• Fixed gear bikes – Road
• Fixed gear bikes – mountain

Another kind of single speed bikes is the fixed gear bike. The fixed gear bike doesn’t have the freewheel mechanism. This mechanism is a favourite with single speed lovers who can cruise down a road without peddling the bike.

Single Speed MTB Frames = Cheaper!

The single speed bike is much cheaper than a geared bike. It is lighter and easier to maintain. It can be used in all weather. Since it doesn’t have the fancy pulleys and chains, it can work better and much faster.

A single speed bike is great for use on levelled roads. But while going uphill more effort is required than a geared bike. Also while going downhill, this bike is slightly hard to control.

The single speed bicycles do not have a lot of options while riding, in terms of gear variations but is very easy and comfortable to ride. A rider of any age will be at ease to ride the single speed bike.

The frames for the single speed bikes can be ‘frame and rigid steel fork’ or ‘frame and fork’.

The main advantage of single speed bikes is their simplicity. That has ensured its wide scale popularity. These are also used for training by athletes.

There are many variants of the single speed bike. They can be built in carbon and titanium.

The science of Single Speed Mountain Bike Frames..

The chain of the bike springs and pulleys are used to maintain tension but not as extensive as geared bikes. The bike’s hubs are threaded on both the sides. The track type threading is intended for a standard freewheel of a single speed bike. In a single speed bike, the chain is directly connected from the chain wheel to the sprocket. A geared bike has a derailer and the chain has to move through that. It complicates the functioning of the bike to a large extent.

For those who are looking for a simple bike without unnecessary frills by which they can commute or use to keep fit, the single speed bike with its light frame is the best option. It is inexpensive and easy to maintain.

The main reason why Turner had created such good frame design is because of his son. His son participated in the emerging sport of BMX in the early 70’s and he noticed that the bikes used by the riders lacked robustness in that they broke fairly easily. Not to mention that they were also quite heavy too. This is why Turner started to develop the tubing in the design of BMX bikes. His design became so popular in Southern California that he became in demand and he eventually started to produce frames for other racers as well.

GT’s famous mountain bike frames

GT is known to provide several types of frames that accommodate the different needs of different types of bikers. GT aims to make off-road biking fun and unforgettable and their mountain bikes are testament to this belief. The aluminium of the frame is tough and gives a strong front suspension for bumps. The frame is made to give you the comfort and convenience while on the toughest trails. Their mountain bike frames are also used by champions for they are known to provide fast speed and excellent acceleration.

GT also takes part in saving mother earth. The Rail Frame for instance, will provide you the comfort while on the road making you wanting to ride your bike instead of your car. This would surely make you feel that biking as a primary means of transportation is the best way to contribute to the fight in saving the environment. This type of frame also fits those who take part in Rail Racing. In fact, GT Rail Bikes are mostly preferred by racers compared to other brands.

GT Mountain Bike Frames for Women

GT also offers frames for women. There are mountain bikes and pavement bikes that women can choose from and it is specifically designed to fit the female body without compromising any of the essential features. Now who says that biking is only for men? GT would definitely beg to differ.

29er v 26 inch

The main difference of the 29er mountain bike compared to that of the 26” is obviously the size of the wheel. But the question is: what does it really do and why is it favourable compared to the other types of bikes? Many say that bigger wheels can handle obstacles a lot better resulting to a smoother ride.

It really is a big advantage for bikers because comfort is a very important factor to consider before purchasing any type of bike.   Larger wheels have better contact with the ground providing better grip, thereby making it easier for the biker to climb up higher places.

The air pressure with this type of wheel is also low which means that you can avoid experiencing a pinch flat – something that no rider would want to experience. For some, finding the right bike for their body shape and size may be a difficult thing to do, but now tall bikers need not worry at all as this type of mountain bike is a perfect fit.

29er Mountain Bike Frames Disadvantages

On the other hand there are also some disadvantages. For starters, since the most common type of wheel is 26er there is a limited range of frames, forks and tires available in the market for 29ers. It may give the owner a hard time looking for the parts he may need to enhance his bike. It is also said that larger wheels accelerate slower and much effort is needed when climbing up trails. Lastly, due to its size, brakes also need to be stronger in order to provide more control for the rider.

All items available in the market have its own advantages and disadvantages. It is actually a matter of choosing what is best for you. Either way, credit is still due to the 29er for giving bikers a fresh alternative. So far it is doing well in the market and it is fair to say that there should be some improvements in the future.

It was in 1986 that Scott offered mountain bikes to the public. Their invention of aerodynamic handlebar brought them to the top of the game because of the major impact it made in the cycling community. It was the same type of bike that Greg Lemond used in the Tour de France which gave him the unforgettable 8-second victory over rival Laurent Fignon. Then the rest was history.

The company then had to reach to a wider market, thus prompting them change their name from Scott USA to just Scott in order to give importance to the jump of their brand to the European market.

Types of Scott MTB Frames

Scott is undeniably diverse in providing different types of frames that would match the need of their bikers. The Trail frame mountain bike is first on the list. This type of frame is specifically designed for those who like biking in the mountains. The bike aims to give the users the smoothest rides as they traverse the terrain with as little effort as possible. It is sure to provide extreme comfort and will make you love off trail biking even more. This should give you the biking experience at the highest level.

Who said that mountain biking is only for men? Scott definitely won’t argue that women have the right to ride mountain bikes too. The company believes that their bikes especially designed for women should have all the important features found in their male product line up.

Scott Contessa Mountain Bike Frames

As a result they are offering features such as precise frame and suspension which are found in their Contesssa line of frames that are specifically made for women. However they don’t disregard additional support that women need so they have added features for a more comfortable ride.

Scott surely has a bike that would suit each and every individual, whether a man or a woman. One need not be a professional to use their bikes at all. Anyone can use it for whatever purpose, be it for commuting or even just to  enjoy basic off road biking.

Kona Mountain Bike Frames – Whats with the names!!

Their bikes also gained infamy due to the quirky names given to them. Initially the bike names were places in Hawaii or names of popular volcanoes like Fire Mountain, Kilauea and Cinder One. Then later on they came up with names that caught the attention of many due to the humour it provided. They came up with names like Sex One and Sex Two which was eventually and quite inevitably changed because of complaints received.

Aside from the unique names of their bikes, Kona is also renowned for the high quality of their products. Moreover, the company also takes part in cycling advocacy. It is widely known for its effort to raise funds for health workers based in Africa to treat HIV and AIDS.

Kona offers a number of bike frames to suit different individual’s needs. Trail bikes are especially designed for those who go mountain biking. It is designed to give its users the mountain biking experience they will never forget.
If you are a first time mountain biker then this type of bike would give all the comfort to explore the beauty of off road biking. Kona Trail bikes has been tested by time and it is sure to provide you with an excellent savvy ride.

Kona MTB and child safety

Biking would never be that fun without your children around. Most parents might want to have their kids beside them when biking, but are just too worried that they might hurt themselves in one way or another. A good thing is that Kona offers a line of Kids bike sure to fit them. Kona believes that it is necessary to provide a safe ride to those kids so they have provided a reliable disc break for this smaller type of bikes. Now kids can enjoy mountain biking the good old way and parents don’t need to worry at all. Kona’s Cylocross bikes has been the apple of the eye of bikers for the speed it provides. However, these quality bikes aren’t only exclusive to professionals as Cylocross can also be used by those who commute.

Cannondale Bicycle Corporation has Canadian roots but has its headquarters in Bethel, Connecticut in the USA. Their products are manufactured and assembled in Taichung, Taiwan.

Cannondale Mountain Bike Frames – Wide Variety Available

The company offers a wide variety of bikes that will surely suit all types of riders. As for their mountain bikes, they have four mountain lines which are the All Mountain, the Marathon, the XC Racing, and the Hardtrail. Let’s have a quick look at each of them.

The All Mountain line is comprised of two models – the Moto and the RZ One Forty. As the name implies, these bikes are specially designed to help riders conquer all types of mountain terrains. These 140 and 160mm bicycles are packed with features that will be able to handle the biggest hits, steer properly, and track in the truest way possible.

The RZ One Twenty is the only bike model that makes up Cannondale’s Marathon mountain line. Endurance is the key features of RZ One Twenty bikes as they are the perfect companion for those taxing 24-hour rides. These bikes are equipped with ultra efficient frames that aim to provide zero power loss for riders. Plus, it also sports the Lefty fork which is a favorite among marathon riders.

Third on the list is the XC Racing mountain line. Speed is the name of the game here and testament to this is the fact that these frames have provided the most wins for its riders in the World Cup circuit. Nonetheless, Cannondale continues to improve on their products by making the Scalpel bike even lighter. This is brought about by more efficient features such as its enhanced carbon layup and magnesium links.

Last but not least, we have Cannondale’s Hardtrail mountain line which boasts to be the lightest hardtrail bikes in the whole world. Be it alloy, carbon, or 29er options, there is surely a bike for you in Cannondale’s renowned Hardtrail line.