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Quality Bicycles, Accessories & Service for Texas
Bicycle Components
Bicycle specifications can be a little confusing. The objective of this page is to be to explain the basics of Road Bicycle Components and Mountain Bicycle Components, Brakes & Shocks, so you can more easily compare models when shopping for a new bicycle. Basically, as you move up to higher-level components, you get products which are lighter, more durable, and have more functionality (9 speeds versus 8, etc.). Naturally, the price increases as well.
For a basic description of the different types of bicycles, please take a look at our Bicycle Buying Guide page.
Road Bicycle Components
Manufacturers naturally equip their higher-priced bicycles with higher-quality components. Sometimes they mix component groups on a particular Bicycle, but usually they stick to a single group.
Mountain Bicycle Components
The component market for mountain Bicycles is much more fragmented than it is for road Bicycles. That can make comparison shopping a little more complicated. Bicycle manufacturers can switch component makers as well as changing component groups for each vendor.
Mountain Bicycle Brakes
Mountain biking requires good brakes. Here are your options in increasing order of braking power:
- Linear pull (also called V-brakes)
- Disc brakes
- Hydraulic disc brakes
Disc brakes offer greater braking power, but they are also a little heavier. Bicycle2go’s tops of the line mountain Bicycles have linear pull brakes in order to keep the weight down.
Mountain Bicycle Shocks
Mountain biking also requires good shocks. Here is what you get as the price of the shock increases:
Low-priced shocks: not adjustable - they are set for average-sized riders. If you are larger or smaller than average, you probably should consider getting an adjustable shock.
Medium-priced shocks: the initial rebound is adjustable.
Higher-priced shocks: more adjustability by changing springs, elastomers, or air pressure.
Helpful Links:
Bicycle Part USA
Bicycle World
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