Mountain Bike Frames

There are a few variables which affect how long tyres last. Tyres designed for longevity should last considerably longer than thin race tyres. However, under inflation and trail debris, can all reduce the lifespan of all bike tyres. Riding mountain bike tyres on roads can also speed up the wearing process on chunky treaded tyres. Deterioration of the rubber on the tread surface, lack of grip, frequent punctures are all signs that your tyres might be getting towards the end of their life.

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.

This is dependent on a number of factors. How much use / abuse has the bike had? What conditions is it usually ridden in? Has the bike been crashed? How heavy or strong is the rider? How good is the rider at avoiding potholes in the road? The list of potential frame life inhibitors is extensive. Take care of your new frameset and it should last a very long time.

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.

Yes and no. Most bikes use 'core tools' such as allen / hex keys, torx wrenchs, cable, cassette and chain tools. Some bikes vary depending on components fitted, variations include some bottom brackets, chainsets and hydraulic brake bleed tools. 

We are living in the information era, where experience, skills and know-how are just a mouse click away. So with the right tools and knowledge, it is relatively easy for someone who does their own bike maintenance to build a bike, especially if you have a fair amount of experience with bike maintenance. However, relatively new riders or those who usually drop their bike in at the mechanics for a service, might prefer to get a mechanic to do their build.

It is usually cheaper to buy a full bike because the manufacturer has the economies of scale purchasing components, and they can usually do this more cost effectively than the individual. However! If you want a specific build that the manufacturer doesn’t offer or if you want to use your existing wheels or components you have sitting collecting dust in the garage, it may well be cheaper to build your own.

Yes, it is more cost effective to buy a full groupset rather than individual components. Buying a groupset from Merlin allows component options too (providing stock is available), so it is also easier to get exactly what you would like.

We always recommend following manufacturers instructions for fitting any component. The Youtube channels of Park Tools and GCN Tech have very indepth and comprehensive advice for completing all sorts of jobs on bikes, these are also worth watching particularly if you are inexperienced or unsure.