Are mountain bikes suitable for commuting?
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In short, any bike is good for commuting. We think of the physical health and mental health benefits. We are using sustainable transportation to get around. We are part of a growing population that is helping to shape the way we should all safely flow through town.
Commuting by bike is a commitment you make to yourself, other road users, pedestrians and your employer every day. It should limit your progress as little as possible. It is primarily designed to keep you going, rain or shine. As such, it should be fun.
If you only ride one bike, it's important to choose the right one, whether you use it just for commuting or to explore more of the world around you in your free time. Or join a cycling club. Or sign up for a free ride with a buddy at your local bike store.
If you want a versatile, adaptable machine that has an upright riding position and flexibility for casual use and commuting, mountain biking should be an important consideration. If you crave adventure.
What are the benefits of mountain biking?
Most of the activities you can do on a bike can be done on a regular mountain bike. They are sturdy, reliable, fun and adventurous, as long as you want them to stay within your limits. Speed-specific mountain bikes tend to rely on their terrain for maximum fun.
The riding position is usually comfortable, so you can ride for longer on rough surfaces. They have a flat handlebar that provides an upright riding position. There is a very wide range of gear ratios available to help you climb hills or pick up speed when following the wind. The smallest sprocket on the front can be as low as 28 teeth, and a 42-tooth rear gear is usually used.
Wheels come in a variety of sizes, depending on whether you want to go over curbs, rocks or squeeze through muddy trails. You can ride over most terrain with varying degrees of control and speed.
Some mountain bikes come with brackets for mounting panniers and luggage racks. Most fenders/mudguards clip onto the seat post and are not as protected at the front as road or hybrid bikes. There are models to fit all budgets, efforts and expectations.
Can you commute to work on a mountain bike?
Mountain bikes are designed to handle rougher terrain than a regular commute. As a result, the riding position will become comfortable and reassuring. Your ride may be a bit awkward and compromised on some specialized machines, but off-road or trail mountain biking will be manageable.
You will be able to absorb potholes and bumps with relative ease. Lower tire pressures will allow you to land more gently. You may not be able to travel as fast as other commuter bikes. If you also take one off the road, then your cleaning and maintenance regime should be more frequent if you want a clean, reliable ride on Monday morning. Collected dirt and grit can mix with your lubricant and form a useless paste that eats away at your components and chain.
You may find it a bit of a hassle to lock and unlock them, and they tend to take up a lot of space on public transportation. Pro-speed mountain bikes have a 25% longer wheelbase (the distance between the center points of the front and rear axles) than road bikes. Multi-section tires will hum on the road, roll violently and wear out faster than the surface they were designed for. You can buy slicker tires for road use as needed.
Why are mountain bikes so popular?
Because there's a little bit of the devil in all of us, right? Mountain bikes give us the best of all worlds. They can be ridden fast. Their drive train requires less pedaling power. They can be fun. The ride is usually comfortable.
The best environment for mountain bikes is off-road. They are designed to clear nature's obstacles and barriers.
If you are fortunate enough to live not far from the countryside, then new, loose trails and routes are open to you, adding even more value to a weekend in the countryside. Their rugged and durable design is suitable for year-round riding. They are more proficient than gravel bikes when plowing through wet mud.
Mountain Bike Pros + Cons
PROS
CONS
Durable frame and components
Can be heavy
Comfortable softer ride
Can really feel the mass on roads
Can tackle the most expected terrain
Cleaning and maintenance needed to ensure efficient ride and keep costs down
Design offers some comfort against bumps
Suspension will take away some pedalling efficiency
Mountain Bikes FAQ
- Are mountain bikes good for the road?
There are more efficient bikes for the road than mountain bikes. However, they are still very good at doing so and can handle potholes, traction roads, trails and downtown traffic jams with aplomb. If your riding is limited to butter-smooth, fresh asphalt, it can become a chore.
- Are mountain bikes fast?
How fast do you want them to go? They are very fast and exciting on the surface they are designed for. That's one of the reasons racers wear body armor. You'll smile when you watch any downhill race through the rider's GoPro. The transmission and weight will limit the top speed on a reliable surface.
- Are mountain bikes harder to ride?
While they have a comfortable overall riding position, the mass and size of mountain bikes work your upper body better than other bikes. Starting standing up or going up hills on a heavier bike can work your arms, quads and calves.
- Are mountain bikes good for long rides?
If you were to ride the shortest route between two points on a map, you would ride a mountain bike. They are reliable, fun, comfortable and will get you in and out of most terrain. If you recommend riding on clean, dry roads, you would use a more efficient bike.
- Are mountain bikes good for uphill climbs?
Mountain bikes are particularly good at going uphill. Although heavier on average than other bikes, they usually have very wide ratios. This makes it easier to pedal. Your cadence will be faster. This means you don't have to use fewer muscle groups to force your momentum.
Can you commute to work on a mountain bike?
Mountain biking is an acceptable way to commute. When you use the roads exclusively, certain versions will provide greater overall comfort and efficiency. Switching from knobby to semi-smooth tires will help you get over the tarmac. Checking that they have accessory mounts will help you stay stable and dry.