How to choose a MTB Frame?
The frame is the main component of the bicycle and is the base of any bike built. MTB frames are designed for riding off-road, over rough terrain. There are two main categories of MTB frames: Hardtail and Full suspension .
you need to expect to spend between €300 for an entry level frame and €3500 for a high end model. You will need to choose the right frame for your riding discipline and riding style.
[h1 Which MTB frame is right for you?
Your riding discipline
Personal choice between hardtail and suspension frame.
Depending the type of riding the bike is intended for, geometry will vary.
Generally, XC bikes will have a long top tube to allow a stretched riding position and a relatively steep head and seat angles. Gravity bikes will feature a short top tube to give a better rider control on rough terrain (the rider will have a more upright position), seat and head angles are slacker.
Your height
To help you choose your frame size, you can use the size chart below as a guide to get you on the right frame: To do this, refer to the size guides on each product sheet.
Generally speaking, we can draw up a size guide of this type:
- Rider between 1.52m and 1.71m rather a frame in S
- Rider between 1.69m and 1.80m rather a frame in M
- Driver between 1.78m and 1.87m more of a frame in size L
- Rider between 1.85m and 1.93m rather a frame in XL
The size of the frame chosen can also vary according to the rider's expectations.
Over the last few years, new mountain bike formats have appeared, to the detriment of the standard to the detriment of the 26" standard : 27.5" and 29" models.
These frames are designed for larger wheels, which generally improve grip, grip, comfort, clearance and stability, as well as overall performance (the larger the wheels, the greater the distance covered per pedal revolution).
Depending on the desired material
New technologies have made it possible to reduce the thickness of frames and retain the advantages of steel (greater durability, elasticity). while cancelling out its main flaw: :
its weight.
Most of the frames available in the entry, mid and top ranges aluminium, which has proved its worth since the early the early 90s.
Carbon is therefore increasingly replacing aluminium at the top and very top of the range.
very top of the range.
Titanium frames are therefore reserved for very high-end buyers.
According to compatibility standards
If you want to keep components from your components from your old bike and change only the frame, you'll need to be very very careful about the specifics of the frame you want.
First of all, the inclination allowed by the frame for the fork. The fork must have a travel that is neither too small so as not to compromise the geometry of the frame.
If you want to keep your front derailleur derailleur, you will also need to check that the standard adopted by your new frame is the same (High clamp/ High Direct Mount/ Low Direct Mount/ ISCG 05).
The diameter of the seatpost must also match that of your new frame : there are several diameters, but we can identify two size standards (30.9mm and 31.6mm).
The standards adopted by the rear wheel axle rear wheel axle, rear brake dropout fixing, bottom bracket assembly and should also be checked before purchasing a new frame.
The size of the wheels you already own must also correspond to the size of the frame purchased (26'', 27.5'' or 29'').
