A MT. BIKE FOR CHRISTMAS? READ THIS!
It's a great memory: a shiny new bike leaning against the tree on Christmas morning. If you're thinking of creating that memory for someone; or even for yourself this holiday, here's some good info on mountain bikes from Jim Fearick, manager of Salt Lake's Contender Bicycle shop.
He says that shops sell a lot of kid's bikes this time of year, but many people also splurge and get the bike of their dreams. But it isn't necessary to spend a lot, especially if you just want a transportation bike.
"A $200 bike would be a great bike for urban use, and perhaps very limited trail. At that price, it would be a beginner's bike. The frame and wheel set would be heavier, so that makes it difficult to have fun in the hills," Fearick says.
One big difference between cheap and expensive bikes is that cheap bikes won't shift as good. The more a bike costs, the smoother it will work.
An average rider who wants the wheels mostly for paved roads should pay between $400-$600. If the bike will be used mostly on dirt trails, the price should be higher.
Fearick says, "We suggest paying at least $650 for a trail bike. That price means the bike will be dependable; all components will be more durable, and there will be a higher grade shock absorber in front."
But if a bike is a bigger item than the budget will allow, bike related items make great gifts; again, for yourself or others.
For example, most bike riders know that smooth riding means constantly doing good drive train maintenance. Everything that shifts the bike has to be regularly cleaned and lubed---that includes the chain, crank, derailler, and rear gears. Use a citrus based de-greaser.
"There are chain cleaning devices that the chain runs through, they start at about $20. It's an awesome gift, one we sell a lot of at Christmas," says Fearick.
Bike cleaning kits are also good gifts. Brushes to clean off mud and gunk, a bike stand that holds the bike upside down for repairs and flat-fixing.
Fearick has one big warning: "You definitely want bike-specific lube oil. A lot of people think they can use WE-40 or motor oil to lube their bike. It's not good, it's too heavy and gunks up your drive train, it also attracts dirt. A bike lubricant will keep the train moving smoothly and silently," he says.
Bike lubricant costs about $8; and like ski wax, it's specific for weather conditions. Some are made for damp weather, others for dry or hot temps.
Another great bike gift is a book Fearick calls a kind of "bible" of bike maintenance. "Zen and the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance" is the most popular bike book around, and costs about $30.