Ways to Reduce the Cost of Using a Mountain Bike
Cycling is not a cheap sport. Professional sports bikes are basically priced in tens of thousands of yuan. Owning a new bike is just the beginning. Cycling clothes, protective gear, tools, accessories, maintenance, etc. all require additional investment. Therefore, it is particularly important to save money without sacrificing the performance of your bike.
If weight is not a big concern, the main difference between a mid-range bike and a top-end bike is its weight. Granted, there are some other differences, but in reality, most of the extra money you spend is spent on carbon fiber and more sophisticated machined parts, just to save a little weight. Under the same configuration, aluminum frames are usually heavier than carbon fiber frames. This makes a slight difference when climbing, but it has little impact in mountain bike downhill racing. For users who prioritize climbing, it is extremely important to find a bike with a steep seat angle, efficient suspension design and low rolling resistance tires. These changes are more critical than saving a few pounds, and they don't necessarily increase the price. We all want to have a mountain bike that can be used in various scenarios. However, unless you frequently participate in XC, climbing and downhill competitions, you only need to own one mountain bike. Modern cross-country and enduro bikes are so capable of both climbing and descending that one bike can do almost anything. For example, a "super enduro" mountain bike with 170/180 mm travel is no slower than a shorter-travel cross-country bike, provided that both bikes use the same tires. At the same time, a shorter-travel mountain bike can also handle descents with ease, again with the right tires. Become your own mechanic For beginners who have just entered the field of cycling, when they encounter problems, they will definitely ask the mechanics in the bike shop to help solve them. However, as they have a deeper understanding of the bike, they can try to maintain the bike themselves, which is also a way to save money. For example, basic operations such as cleaning and oiling, and those who are more hands-on can also further maintain the bike, such as removing and installing the front fork. Be prepared for a rainy day Paying more attention to the maintenance of the bike on a daily basis will not only save money, but also extend the life of your bike. For example, keeping the transmission system reasonably clean and well lubricated, regularly checking the spoke tension, whether the vehicle screws are loose, etc. These operations can keep your car in good performance without spending more money. |
