Question 1

Hardtail or full-suspension: which should I buy?

Accepted Answer

Budget decides it. Hardtails (front suspension only) start around £800 used and are the right call at any budget under £1,800. They're simpler, lighter and less to maintain, and plenty of bike for natural trails and forest centres. Full-suspension starts £1,800 used and is worth it for technical trails, bike parks and rough descents.

Question 2

What size mountain bike do I need?

Accepted Answer

Mountain bikes use inch-based sizing: XS (13 to 14") for under 157cm, S (15 to 16") for 157 to 168cm, M (17 to 18") for 168 to 178cm, L (19 to 20") for 178 to 188cm, XL (21 to 22") for 188cm+. Wheel size is separate: 29" for XC and tall riders, 27.5" for smaller riders and more playful handling.

Question 3

What groupset should I look for on a used MTB?

Accepted Answer

Shimano Deore is the floor. Avoid Altus and Acera on anything over £700. Shimano SLX or XT is the right range used. SRAM GX or NX is the SRAM equivalent. For full-suspension, look for a named rear shock (Fox, RockShox) with serviceable pivots.

Question 4

Can I use a mountain bike on the road?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it will feel slow and heavy compared to a hybrid or road bike. Knobbly tyres generate drag on tarmac and the geometry is upright. If your rides are 80%+ road with occasional trails, a gravel bike or hardtail with less aggressive tyres is a better fit.

Which mountain bike should I buy?

How it works

You tell us how you ride

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Which mountain bike should I buy?

How it works

You tell us how you ride

We match you to a bike

You get a shortlist