How to choose your All-Mountain Bike
Pleasure and sensations at the handlebars of an all-Mountain bike
As the name suggests, an all-mountain bike will allow you to face the difference in altitude, whether positive or negative. This segment has considerably evolved and is now the main bike category. Indeed, an all-mountain has the specificity of being versatile, reliable and comfortable. All-mountain biking is carried out outside any competition. Whether in altitude or during a bike hike in a less hilly region, the all-mountain is characterized by its values of pleasure, sharing, nature and adventure.
However, it isn't suited for extreme or specific practices. For example, an all-mountain will not be able to engage slopes like a downhill bike. The accelerations will be less efficient than a semi-rigid cross-country bike. Therefore, if you want to be in line with enduro races or to go regularly to the resort, we advise you to choose a more specific bike. Moreover, if you live in a flatter area or if you train for circuit competitions, a typical cross-country bike will be more efficient and effective.
A full-suspension MTB to give your best
An All-Mountain bike generally has a rear suspension for displacements between 120 and 150 mm. Combort is a real asset: the suspension also makes it possible to follow more demanding roads and tracks. Although the name All-Mountain MTB refers directly to the alpine MTB in everyone's subconscious, these bikes are also meant for shorter hikes and more reliable climbs. Most All-Mountain benefit from the latest technological advances and are thus very light despite their suspension systems. All-Mountain bikes with smaller displacements (120-130 mm) are genuine fighter jets on singles with a weight up to 11 kg, and will be ideal for cyclists living in low-hilly areas.
An All-Mountain Trail MTB is a bike that balances its climbing ability and its ability to descend.
Go on an adventure
Each trip is unique with its own lot of unforeseen events. That is why, before each hike, it is important to make sure you are well equipped and have the right equipment. Protection, hydration, nutrition and repair are the 4 key words you must go over before every excursion so as to not forget anything:
Protection: In addition to the essential helmet, it is important to protect yourself with hard-wearing clothing (adapted shorts, gloves, glasses). For the most demanding routes, you can even opt for light knee pads. It is also important to carry a first-aid kit for long distances in self-reliance and, in case of bad weather, a windbreaker.
Hydration: It is important to hydrate regularly and in small quantities during an excursion to avoid any risk of dehydration and other undesirable side effects (cramps, headache, fatigue). Reservoir or flask, water or energy drink, to each their own.
Nutrition: From 2 hours of continuous efforts or more, it is necessary to carry provisions to refuel in order to continue to be at the top of your game. Regular and quality refueling during long and strenuous effort can greatly affect your sporting performance.
Repair: During a hike, whether the distance is short or long, your equipment is subject to unforeseen circumstances and mechanical breakage. It is therefore important to have enough to repair (multi-tools, inner tube, drift-chain, etc.) but also to tinker (nylon 11, quick fasteners, duck tape) if the repair proves impossible on the terrain. Consequently, you will be able to shorten your route and get back into correct conditions.
More than a bike, an All-Mountain is a real adventure companion. Come and discover yours!
Alltricks' advice
If you want to be able to locate but also to analyse your route, a GPS can be useful for an all-mountain practice.
