Mountain Bikes

The main difference between gravel bikes and 29ers is flat bars versus drop bars. Gravel bike bars offer multiple hand positions compared to just one with flat bars. Multiple hand positions are ideal for longer rides or rides over varying terrain. Another big difference is gearing, typically gravel bikes have higher gearing and 29ers lower gearing, so if you regularly ride on the road, you might run out of gears descending at 30mph on a 29er. If most of your rides are off road on trickier terrain than gravel tracks, a 29er could be a better option.

This is much discussed! There are good and bad points for both 1x and 2x systems. 1x is simpler, usually a little lighter, there is no gear overlap, and it is very easy to get used to. 1x drivetrains are proving very popular, most bikes are now 1x and it is fast becoming the ‘norm’. The downsides are the gaps between sprockets can sometimes be felt, particularly on climbs, rear cassettes are also heavier because they incorporate bigger sprockets (however this is offset with no front derailleur, shifter and chainring reducing weight). 2x offers more gear choices, however changing between front chainrings can be tricky in very muddy conditions and 2x is heavier and adds to maintenance.

This really depends on what type of riding you are planning on doing. For most cross country / general mountain bike riders, somewhere between 100 – 120mm suspension is fine for the majority of riding.If you are hitting jumps hard and taking on more challenging terrain,140mm plus will help smooth things out.

We have written a mountain bike size guide which is packed with useful information and tips on sizing.

Read our Ultimate Mountain Bike Size Guide here.

Bigger 29er wheels roll better, especially over rocky terrain and smoother fire trail tracks. Many cross country riders prefer 29er wheels. Smaller 27.5 wheels are generally move manouverable, lighter, accelerate quicker and they are easier to ride 'playfully' and have fun on. Smaller riders often prefer the smaller 27.5 wheels, because smaller bikes with 29 inch wheels can sometimes be a bit of a handful.