How to Improve Performance on My Mountain Bicycle

There is a nearly endless list of improvements you can make to your mountain bike to increase its performance, but some are more important, and more effective, than others. Here you will find some ideas that can heighten your mountain bike's performance on even the toughest trails.

Instructions

  1. Improve Mountain Bike Performance

    • 1

      While most mountain bikes sold today have front suspension forks, not all come with a shock absorption system that can handle a wide variety of trails. One way to improve your mountain bike's performance is to replace your forks with a set that can better handle rocks, roots and other pesky objects. That means installing a set of forks with at least 80 millimeters of travel, or compression. Added shock absorption increases your ability to better control your bike at higher speeds and improves your bike's agility on trails with a higher degree of difficulty. Comfort also is vastly improved.

    • 2

      Pedals can make or break your bike's performance. To enhance your mountain biking, invest in a set of clipless pedals, which have a mechanism into which specially-made shoes lock. These pedals serve two purposes. First, they keep your feet secured to the pedals on bumpy trails and while catching air off jumps. Not having such an attachment between your feet and pedals can cause your feet to slip off, limiting the quality of your ride and putting your safety at risk. Second, clipless pedals improve pedaling efficiency. By having your feet attached to the pedals, each pedal stroke is maximized to its fullest because not only are your legs pushing but they are also pulling. On uphill climbs, this is particularly helpful.

      Bill Strickland, in his book "Mountain Biking: Over the Edge," insists that clipless pedals are the way to go for today's mountain biker. "Don't settle for anything but clipless pedals," Strickland writes.

    • 3

      Tires are an integral part of your mountain bike, and upgrading to a high-performance set can give your bike an exceptional edge on any trail. Look for tires that offer steering control in all conditions, from sandy to hard-dirt trails. Invest in a tire with side knobs, which hold the terrain while cornering. Also, buy tires made with Kevlar side bead. This feature gives your bike tires longevity and durability. Tire pressure also is important. Always refer to manufacturer recommendations on how much air to put in the tires.

    • 4

      A less obvious but nearly as important improvement: Your own riding skills. Without enough practice--or proper instruction--your bike becomes a useless and expensive piece of recreational equipment. But by improving your technical skills--learning, among other things, how to pedal, brake and jump properly--you can maximize your bike's potential as an exciting mode of two-wheeled, off-road transportation.