What is a Downhill Bike?
A downhill bike is essentially a bicycle that comes with full suspension and is completely designed for downhill bike riding. Usually this takes place on steep and rocky trails. These downhill bikes differ from regular mountain bikes as they are far more stable and durable while they are also much lighter and versatile than cross country bicycles. These bikes are not really built for getting from place to place, and are usually transported to a certain area in order to be ridden.
In most instances downhill bikes are made from steel or aluminum and come with close to 10 inches of rear suspension. The most important part of these bikes is often the suspension, suspension forks, and the suspension sag. This allows for a much more relaxing and comfortable ride than what other mountain bikes would offer on rough trails. When purchasing a downhill bike, you definitely want to make sure that proper suspension is your focus.
Downhill bikes are known for having very loose head tube angles, abnormally long wheelbases, and can handle very wide tires that are also knobbed. In many cases, downhill frames are oversized so that they can handle things like jumps, drops, and rough terrain. The entire bike usually weighs more than 40 pounds, and newer bikes can even weight as much as 50 pounds. On the other side of things, some downhill bikes are made to weight under 38 pounds which can make them easier to transport to and from certain places.
Other features for downhill bikes include large disc brakes and a special chain guide that discourages chain displacement, which can be a huge hassle on rocky terrain. There are also a number of new innovations such as new head tube standards for more strength and adjustable angles that allow the bike to be custom adapted to the needs and style of specific riders. Being able to adjust a bike to your specific needs is a major advantage, and can also allow you to save money and avoid having a downhill bike custom made to your specifications. It is easy to find a downhill bike that suits your style, strengths, and budget, especially when comparison shopping online.
In many ways, downhill bikes are similar to free-ride bicycles, as they both possess long travel and big, strong frames. Downhill bikes usually have triple claim forks that offer a number of advantages that cannot be found with single forks. This leaves more travel at the front and a lot more stiffness when taking the bike through punishing areas.
While downhill bikes are the best way to go when it comes to downhill riding and rocky terrain, there are drawbacks which ensure they are not perfect for everyday use or travel. The increased weight would be a hassle on flat terrain and there is not much of a turning circle, but neither of those drawbacks have an impact if you are using downhill bikes in the way that they are meant to be used.
Have fun and safe riding!