MTB: parts and equipment

The ranges Shimano

Shimano, the leading bicycle transmission manufacturer, classifies its mountain bike groups into ranges, from entry-level to high-end: Tourney, Altus, Acera and Alivio equip leisure mountain bikes with six, seven or nine speeds; Deore, SLX and XT, with twelve speeds, are for sporty mountain bikes; XTR, the lightest, for competition. The higher the range, the more precise the gear shifting and the lighter the weight. With Sram, the American competitor, the GX range is on par with the sporty groups.

By part type

The mountain bike selection is organized by type:

• Bikes.
• Transmission.
• Braking.
• Wheels and Tires.
• Peripheral Components.
• Equipment.

The bike is also available in road, BMX, city, spare parts, along with equipment, on the bikes page.

Transmission and braking

The transmission wears out: the chain elongates over the kilometers and wears down the cassette and the chainrings. It is measured with a checking tool and should be replaced in time, to avoid changing the entire transmission. Modern mountain bikes often have a single chainring with twelve speeds, featuring a large cassette for climbing. On the braking side, hydraulic disc brakes, like those of the Shimano BL-MT401 lever, provide consistent power in all conditions. Metallic pads last longer in mud, while organic ones are more progressive and quieter.

Tires, pedals and gear

The tire, like the Vittoria Mezcal, is chosen based on the terrain: low and tightly spaced lugs for smooth trails and cross-country, high and widely spaced lugs for mud and enduro. When set up as tubeless, without an inner tube, it rolls at lower pressure and is more resistant to punctures. The Assioma pedals from Favero measure pedaling power for accurate training. Shimano shoes and the Northwave Himalaya, high and warm, are great for winter outings. The child seat Shotgun, attached to the frame, allows you to take a young child on the trails.

Good deals

Great bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The key moments of the year follow a regular order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, winter sales, the French Days of spring, then summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

What size mountain bike should I choose?

The frame size depends on your height: generally S for up to one meter sixty-five, M for up to one meter seventy-five, L for up to one meter eighty-five and XL for above. Inseam length refines the choice.

When to change the chain on my mountain bike?

Measure its elongation with a wear tester: beyond the limit, the chain wears down the cassette and chainrings. Changing the chain in time avoids needing to replace the entire transmission.

Organic or metallic pads?

Organic pads brake well when cold and are quiet, but wear out quickly, especially in mud. Metallic, sintered pads last longer and handle the heat from long descents better.

Flat or clipless pedals for mountain biking?

Flat pedals allow you to place your foot down at any time, ideal for beginners and downhill rides. Clipless pedals secure shoe and pedal for more efficient pedaling uphill, with compatible shoes.

How to choose the width of your mountain bike tires?

A wide tire grips and absorbs shock during descents and on rough terrain. A narrower tire, lighter and faster, is suitable for cross-country. Lowering the pressure a bit improves grip.