Off-road cycling is as old as cycling itself, but it’s not until the 1970s that specialist mountain bike manufacture really took off. Mountain bike frames were originally based on road bikes, but the technology soon had to evolve to meet the unique demands of rough terrain and difficult conditions.

Nowadays mountain bikes are bristling with technological bits and bobs, all designed to make riding easier and more accessible. So you can take on more demanding terrain, harder rides and thanks to the advancement in safety equipment take on much more dangerous descents.

Gears
With up to 27 gears available even the steepest of hills can be taken on.

Suspension
A good quality suspension system is invaluable when off road biking at speed. Most mountain bikes have at least front suspension - great for uneven descents. A full suspension bike provides greater control, comfort and agility when the ground is bumpy and rocky - but probably isn’t needed if you only plan to cycle on light tracks.

Frames
Your bike is literally built around the frame and as your bikes gets put through its paces, so does your frame. Your frame has to be tough enough to take the hammer it will get on route, so needs to be made from the strongest possible alloys. A mountain bike frame is designed to take all the stress you put it through and still be light enough to drag up those unforgiving ascents.

Brakes
All good mountain bikes are fitted with disc brakes to the front and rear wheels. By moving the braking system to the middle of the wheel they are much easier to keep clean as do not come into contact with the ground which will often be wet and muddy.

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