The Wall Street crowd discovers mountain biking.

The Wall Street Journal has discovered mountain biking.


http://www.wsj.com/articles/think-o...untain-bikes-will-change-your-mind-1470345662




Think Off-Road Biking’s Too Tough for You? These Mountain Bikes Will Change Your Mind
With improved suspensions and frame designs, the latest mountain bikes are making riding off-path accessible to all. A guide to the best trail, fat-tire and electric mountain bikes.
By
Brigid Mander

Updated Aug. 5, 2016 11:45 a.m. ET

TEA AND EFFICIENCY The $8,900 carbon-frame Alchemy Arktos—one of the new-breed trail bikes—offers 6 inches of shock absorption front and rear. Photo: photo illustration by joe darrow; Getty Images

Biking on a paved road has its charms—but it can’t beat winding through a piney forest or a picturesque meadow on a dirt trail. Off-roaders experience the world differently: The scents are more pleasant, and there’s only the sound of the wind in the trees and your bike’s knobby tires scrunching over the earth.

As idyllic as this all sounds, we know what you’re thinking: Yes, coasting downhill seems fun enough, but what about the slog back up?

Fortunately, quantum leaps in bike design are making off-road riding more accessible. Highly efficient mountain bikes take some of the sweat out of climbing hills. So-called “fat-tire” bikes can roll over virtually any terrain, from sandy beaches to gravelly paths. And the electric-bike revolution is finding its way to the trail, too: Off-road models with electric-assist motors can help you traverse arduous stretches that would otherwise leave you panting.

Born in the 1970s as a niche pastime for thrill-seekers who put balloon tires on bike frames and careened downhill, mountain biking is now mainstream. According to the Outdoor Industry Association trade group, an estimated 40 million Americans mountain bike each year. The market has evolved to meet the demand. Sales of all-terrain fat-tire bikes increased sixfold between 2013 and 2015, according to market-research firm NPD Group, and growth in independent-bike-shop sales has largely been driven by mountain and electric bikes.

For beginners, that means more choice: Now anyone can find a model to fit his or her body type and skill level. The downside? Shopping for a bike can be a paralyzing experience, an overwhelming blur of various suspension types, wheel sizes and frame designs.

There’s no substitute for hopping on a bike and testing it out—evaluating how the suspension responds, how well the tires grip and whether the frame puts you at an angle that makes you feel secure heading up and down hills. But the guide on the following page can give you the lay of the off-roading land. No matter what type of ride you choose, the key is to get out there and discover your inner kid. And what better place to do that than on a dirt trail?





For Easy Climbs and Less-Bumpy Descents
Trail Bikes
Until a few years ago, most mountain bikes were good at going uphill or going downhill—not both. That’s because bikes that made zooming downhill more fun (and a lot less jittery) lacked the efficient suspension systems and energy-efficient frame designs that let you ascend a trail with minimal effort. Likewise, bikes that made climbing less of a grind lacked features like extra-cushy suspensions that eased a rough descent.

No more. “It’s been a collective learning experience in the bike industry,” said Matt Maczuzak, co-owner and engineer at Alchemy, a boutique carbon-bike-frame maker in Denver. “This latest generation of bikes has worked out the kinks.”

The contrast between the old and new bikes—both in terms of your comfort and exertion level—is extreme. And although you’ll find the biggest upgrades at the top-end of the mountain-bike range, less-expensive models sport advanced features, too. “There’s a trickle-down effect making even the lower-end bikes much better,” said Erik Swanson, owner of Adventure Cycling in Aurora, Colo. “You can get a good bike now starting around $1,700, with parts that were expensive, high-end technology a few years ago.”

Still, those willing to invest a few thousand more will be rewarded with the most responsive, efficient and stable options. It’s hard to convey how much easier these bikes are to ride than the mountain bikes you may have grown up with. “People are surprised at all these bikes can do,” said Mr. Swanson. “They say, ‘Oh man, that really does make a difference!’ It just makes riding trails all the more fun, which is the whole point.”

Below, two of our favorite picks from the forefront of mountain-bike design.


Alchemy Arktos

Alchemy Arktos

What gives this incredibly responsive and lightweight carbon-frame bike its buttery ride? A game-changing suspension system that offers 6 inches of shock absorption front and rear yet goes uphill without dissipating the energy you put in. As you ascend, the suspension stays soft when you gently roll over small bumps (so they don’t throw off your cadence) but stiffens up in response to the jolts of your pedaling, which helps give the bike its stellar uphill performance. As you descend and hit rocks and roots with greater force and speed, the suspension goes soft again for a plush, fun ride—all without requiring you to make any adjustments to the suspension. $8,900 as shown, alchemybicycle.com


Yeti Beti SB5c

Yeti Beti SB5c

Like most new bikes, this carbon-frame model features simplified 1x11 gearing to reduce weight (there’s no front shifter or superfluous front gears) but still pedals efficiently. Bonus: The pared-down gearing lets you focus on the trail rather than what gear you’re in—an advantage for riders at any level. Thanks to its effective suspension design, the SB5c climbs superbly and deftly handles anything from smooth beginner trails to tough terrain on the way down. This model is tailored for women—it has shorter pedal cranks and handlebars, and its shocks have been tuned for a lighter-weight rider. Those looking for a similar unisex model can check out the Yeti SB5c. $6,899, yeticycles.com





For Traversing Sand, Dirt and Snow
‘Fat’ and ‘Plus’ Bikes
Fat bikes have been mass-produced for over a decade, but their tank-like appearance still catches people off guard. “The number-one shop curiosity is the fat bike,” said Shepard Grinker, owner of mountain-bike specialist Tenafly Bicycle Workshop in Tenafly, N.J. “People want to know where you would ride one. The answer is everywhere.”

According to fans, a quick spin on a fat bike around a potholed city block, much less a woodsy trail, will likely win over doubters. Despite the slightly comical appearance of the 4- to 5-inch-wide tires, fat bikes have benefited from the same advances as other mountain bikes, including simpler shifting, nimbler handling and lighter frame designs. Some now have customized suspensions to add to the already generous bounce provided by the wheels.

Dave Willmott, a bank project coordinator in Victor, Idaho, happily ditched his traditional mountain bike for a front-suspension fat bike about a year ago. “I only need one bike. It’s light, has incredible traction and is so stable,” said Mr. Willmott. “The wide surface area of the tires glues you to the ground. It’s almost like training wheels for the trail.”

This year, models with narrower 3-inch tires, called “Plus Bikes” have become popular, too. Curious beginners are flocking to both Fat and Plus versions. “People can get out on the trails and not struggle,” said Mr. Grinker. “The learning curve goes down tremendously on wider tires.”


Salsa Bucksaw X01

Salsa Bucksaw GX1

Riding a fat-tire bike feels akin to floating—it seems implausible that you’re rolling so smoothly over such varied surfaces—and this bike exemplifies the effect. In addition to the natural stability provided by its 4-inch wide tires, the 4-inch front and rear suspensions add to the bike’s bump-absorption abilities. Traction is impressive on uneven trails, whether we sped across sand or cruised over snow. The bike comes in three iterations: If you’re looking for a do-it-all-bike, go with the aluminum-frame GX1 (shown) or X01. Those planning an extended two-wheeled adventure should spring for the Bucksaw Carbon X01; Salsa managed to shave a few pounds off it, thanks to a carbon frame. $3,999 for the GX1 shown, salsacycles.com


Cannondale Beast of the East 3

Cannondale Beast of the East 3

This front-suspension bike (also known as a “hardtail”) is lighter and simpler to maintain than a dual-suspension model, but its 3-inch “plus” tires allow it to stay agile and extra stable on rocky, rooty trails. Although it has a rougher ride than a full-suspension bike, this is a wallet-friendly way to build your off-road skills. And if you’re budget conscious, take note: While the price is already entry-level for a performance bike, by the end of the summer, Cannondale plans to release another front-suspension bike line, with models starting at $980. They’ll have similar specs but slightly less expensive components. $1,600, cannondale.com





For a Little Help Along the Way
E-Mountain Bikes
Electric mountain bikes first came on the scene in Europe, then took off in the U.S. a few years ago. Initially, they mostly attracted riders unable to power up trails on their own. But as the bikes got better, their appeal broadened.

Unlike some e-bikes that do all the work for you, electric mountain bikes don’t offer a completely effort-free ride. Instead, these electric-assist models only output power to help you out when you’re already pedaling. The effect is like discovering that you’re suddenly a lot stronger than you thought.

Trey Chace, a Jackson, Wyo.-based cinematographer, bought several e-mountain bikes earlier this year so that his parents, who are in their 70s, could join him on dirt roads and easy trails together.
“I don’t think my parents have been on bikes since they were kids. These are so fun for them,” he said.

As an experienced mountain biker, he was surprised to find himself a convert, too. “I’m perfectly able to ride without help, but this is the most fun I’ve had on a bike in a long time” said Mr. Chace. “Plus, it goes 20 mph easily, so I can take it around town to get coffee or do errands instead of jumping in my car.”

While e-bikes are prohibited on trails designated for nonmotorized vehicles, a vast network of U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management roads and trails do allow them. (Check with local bike shops or rangers before heading out if you’re unsure.) At the end of the day, a little common sense goes a long way: Be considerate of other bikers (especially those pedaling up an incline the old-fashioned way as you breeze by).


Specialized Levo FSR Comp 6Fattie

Specialized Levo FSR Comp 6Fattie

At first glance, this mountain bike with a hidden integrated motor looks a lot like a standard trail bike. And despite a little extra bulk and a hefty 47-pound weight, it also rides and handles similarly to a normal bike. But hit the pedals harder to engage the electric-assist system—which puts out a max 530 watts to boost your leg power—and everything changes. Even if you’re a seasoned biker, pedaling with the assist is too much fun to feel like cheating. Download the companion smartphone app to plan trail routes within the battery’s range to ensure the battery doesn’t conk out before you do. $5,500, specialized.com


Haibike XDURO FullSeven SRX

Haibike XDURO FullSeven S RX

With 4 inches of suspension-travel front and back, the FullSeven shines on smoother, less-aggressive trails. The smaller shocks make bigger bumps and drops more jolting but also allow the bike to switch easily from a narrow dirt track to pavement (where it’s equally pleasant to pedal). The 350-watt Bosch motor delivers a maximum pedal-assist speed of 28 mph, but even with the motor turned off it was unexpectedly easy to ride flat terrain. The battery is lockable and removable to thwart thieves. A digital display on the handlebar keeps battery life, speed, and other data in sight—no smartphone required. $4,700, haibikeusa.com





The Most Beautiful Spots in America to Ride an Electric Mountain Bike

Mountain biking in Moab, Utah. Photo: Getty Images

Electric mountain bikes are currently prohibited on most trails designated for nonmotorized vehicles, but there are still plenty of bucolic spots around the country to ride legally.

Moab, Utah: Moab is a longtime mecca for all sorts of trail riding—e-mountain bikes, motorcycles and all Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) are welcome here. The region is a vast playground of desert canyons and rock formations, and there are a dizzying number of trails for e-bikes, from smooth and scenic dirt roads to thrilling singletracks. Local bike shops, such as Moab Cyclery (moabcyclery.com), sell maps with trail designations.

Ketchum, Idaho: In Ketchum, mountainous mining roads and modern trails give this posh enclave around Sun Valley extensive e-mountain biking opportunities. Every kind of e-bike-friendly ride unfurls from the town: miles of motorized-use singletrack trails, scenic dirt roads that ramble along rivers and hot springs; and the 23-mile trip to Galena Lodge, a slice of mountain-biking heaven.

Crested Butte and Southern Colorado: Between the dirt roads traversing spectacular mountain passes and the e-bike-friendly recreation areas offering singletrack trails, southern Colorado has a lot to offer. Base yourself in a resort town such as Crested Butte; other e-mountain biking adventures are just a short drive away, including the Monarch Crest Trail and the trails outside of Gunnison as well as spots near Telluride, Aspen and Silverton. (Check with bike shops in each area for details.)

Lake Tahoe, Calif.: On the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, legal dirt-riding opportunities abound. The mountains around the lake are full of former logging roads that are perfect for electric-assist pedaling. A community-pathways system offers scenic cruising and connections to some e-bike-legal parts of the spectacular Rim Trail. Maps and information can be found at bike shops like Olympic Bike Shop (olympicbikeshop.com) in Tahoe City. Experienced e-mountain bikers should head to nearby Downieville, where a huge network of dirtbike/OHV singletrack trails offer intermediate to extreme challenges.

 

Wow I need to get me one of these "mountain bikes" !! They sound fun for sure !!
TFPU @Faust29

 

Yeah... And they even have electric ones that have been popular for years! And there's all sorts of places to ride them!

 

The Yuppies are coming!! The Yuppies are coming!!

 

The MtB ranks have been filled with Yuppies for 20 years. Who else can afford to buy $5000-$10,000 toys?