How to choose a bike for downhill?

The number of downhill people is constantly growing. Fans of this sport climb the hills in any weather and at any time of the year. They are not afraid of either rains, or gusts of wind, or snow in the desire to feel the speed at the same time as extreme. The best place for athletes is the steepest hill that can give you a lot of adrenaline.

Downhill can be translated from English as "down the hill". This sport appeared in 1976 and is a race on a mountain track on a special two-wheeled vehicle. The first models of downhill bikes appeared in the early 90s and are constantly being improved. A downhill bike is a mountain bike with shock absorption on both wheels. Its purpose is to descend along very steep paths with many stones. The main difference from other mountain models is a powerful and thick frame with increased strength. This frame structure sometimes makes them look like freeride bikes. No wonder, as they are designed to withstand impacts while driving and overcome various obstacles in the form of logs, ditches and the like.

It is worth noting that powerful downhill bikes quite often do not have to be driven up the hill by riders. For this, special hoists or machines are used. Such a bike weighs on average about 14 kg, although there are lighter models weighing 10 kg.

Most often downhill bikes are made made of aluminum or carbon... The rear suspension differs in travel in the range from 17.8 to 25.4 cm. As a rule, under the athlete, the suspension sags by 25-50%. This allows you to land softly when overcoming obstacles at high speeds. The front fork on these models is 7-8 inches.In centimeters, this will be between 17.8 and 20.3 cm. Long travel is preferable, so it is better to choose the 8-inch version. The steering wheel should be tilted up to 66 degrees.

As for the stem, its attachment is organized using five grips. Its adjustment can be carried out depending on the route and the manner of passage. The handlebars are sturdy and have a tube at least 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. The wheels are 24-29 inches in diameter. Also sometimes there are very wide wheels, characterized by increased traction with the ground. The brakes are predominantly disc brakes.

Beginner hilltop climbers should take special care when choosing their first downhill bike. It should be borne in mind that beginners will have to work hard, getting the skills to control an unusual mountain bike and good physical fitness. Before choosing, it is important to decide what exactly a two-wheeled vehicle is needed for: for short and simple races at speed or for competitions with a full-fledged extreme.

Don't expect downhill models to be a good option for simple cycling trips. It must be borne in mind that they will have to get upstairs while standing. Currently, a variety of models can meet the needs of both novice athletes and professionals. If you wish, you can always order a bike just for yourself.

The frame is one of the basic elements of a bicycle. Riding comfort and efficiency depends on its choice. The choice of the frame is based on the material and size. The last parameter is easy to choose according to your height using special tables. Aluminium alloy used for downhill bikes quite often. Recently, magnesium has been added to the composition of such alloys, which makes it possible to reduce weight and increase strength. Zinc is found in more budget models. Steel framesdespite its durability, a rarity. The fact is that this material increases the weight of the entire bike too much. Mostly they can be found among older models.

Carbon models are distinguished by their high price. However, it must be borne in mind that for it you get a very strong frame that tolerates mechanical damage well. At the same time, in terms of weight, frames made of carbon are lighter than those of aluminum. Chromomolybdenum was very popular not so long ago. This is due to the fact that such an alloy had no bending fatigue effect.

The special suspension allows the downhill bike to travel at a speed of 60–70 km / h while jumping on steep slopes. The most common four-link suspension system. With it, the wheel is able to move exclusively upward, without making any displacement towards the saddle.

Of course, single-lever options allow excellent passage of areas with unevenness. With such a suspension, the vehicle will sway much less when the pedals are spinning, which is important when descending rocky hills.

This is another very important element of a good downhill bike. The best option is a double crown suspension fork. It reduces stress on the frame and handlebars and increases torsional rigidity. This technique is used in motorcycles.

Wheels must be strong and heavy. Well-chosen knitting needles will allow you to withstand a wide variety of loads. Correct wheel assembly also influences the permeability to a large extent. The choice must be made taking into account the driving style, as well as the characteristics of the terrain on which the races will be made.

Braking systems on downhill bikes must be of high quality. These can only be expensive options. An important point is the creation of a significant effort by the brakes. Usually, the choice is made between models with two or four pistons. Of course, the most reliable is the four-piston braking system.

On downhill models, only the rear derailleur is most often found. This is because when downhill, there is no need to change gears over a wide range. Among the reliable systems, users note the Sram X7, Sram X9, as well as Shimano models. They work stably and at the same time are affordable. However, experts advise paying attention to American derailleurs, designed specifically for downhill bikes.

The cost of cycling for downhill today starts from 1000-2000 $. Prices can vary greatly by manufacturer, assembly, configuration. When choosing affordable bicycles, it is important to pay attention to the reliability of the main components and the suspension travel.

It is better for novice athletes to prefer inexpensive and reliable models, for example, the Cube brand. It is worth noting that by purchasing a bike from a well-known company, you can get a lifetime warranty on it. Comfortable models for constant downhill practice will cost an average of $ 9,000.

Among the popular manufacturers of downhill bike models, the company stands out Eltreco... This company uses spare parts from leading manufacturers, including Kenda, Shimano and others. The main goal of the brand is to create transport that will be environmentally friendly. The factories are located in China and South Korea. Swiss company Scott started its activity in 1986. Its main difference from other manufacturers is its unusual technological solutions. For example, the brand has bicycles with aerodynamic handlebars and very lightweight frames. There are many professional models among the models who are able to cope with routes of any complexity.

Giant was founded in 1972 in Taiwan. Today the company ranks among the leaders in the production of bicycles. An interesting technology of the company is the creation of carbon frames without welded seams. At the same time, the company has developed an original rear suspension "Maestro" and an economical method of coating with paint and varnish products without loss of quality.

American manufacturer Cannondale made famous for its very robust aluminum frames. The peculiarity of these frames is also that they are assembled by hand. If you buy a bike in an official store, then it comes with a lifetime warranty. Today the brand produces over 150 models, among which there are many premium options.

Firm Merida, which began its work in 1972, surpasses many competitors in terms of price-quality ratio. The bikes of this manufacturer have been seen among the winners at various famous competitions around the world. Moreover, among the models for downhill there are special women's bikes. Manufacturer Cube from Germany provides over 200 bike models. All of them are of high German quality, good aerodynamics, strong frames and low weight.

Downhill bikes need constant maintenance. First of all, on the vehicle, it is necessary to check the condition of the bearings and the lubrication of the main components. Before each ride, make sure your tires are inflated and adjust the handlebars and saddle. Particular attention should be paid to the serviceability of the brakes. An important point is the adjustment of the rear and front suspensions, as well as checking the connection of the connecting rods.

When replacing shock absorbers, speed switches, brake system, you should purchase high-quality spare parts. For example, you can give preference to parts from the Japanese Shimano brand or the American Sram.

According to experts, tubeless wheels should not be installed on downhill bikes. Their cost is much higher, and on the route, if necessary, it will not be possible to seal the puncture.

See the next video for what beginners need to know about downhill.