When it comes to buying a bike, the first decision you need to make is, do I buy a road or mountain bike? 

In this article we explain the main differences between the two so that you can choose the bike that best suits your needs.

To do this, it is important to take into account the discipline you are going to practice: fast descents or long climbs? medium or long distance rides?

Road bike

Road bikes, also known as road bikes, are a type of bicycle adapted to flat surfaces or terrain.

It is designed for speed, because of the position required of the rider, in addition to being a light, aerodynamic and comfortable bicycle.

Road bikes can be used both to participate in competitions, alone or in teams, such as the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España or the Giro d’Italia.

Their main advantages are: 

• Greater touring capacity. Road cycling allows long distances to be covered. All types of routes can be designed and adapted to training needs.
• Less muscle fatigue, due to the characteristics of the terrain. Compared to mountain bikes, they are a good ally to combat an injury or to carry out an active recovery session.
• Fewer stops, due to the surface of the routes, as they are flat surfaces without bumps, as for example mountain bike routes, which are designed precisely for the opposite. 
• Less danger, since we do not cross roads or paths that are difficult to access. 
• Greater accessibility, since this type of bicycles can be used by anyone, regardless of physical condition. However, in mountain bikes, you must have a minimum of resistance to withstand the slopes of this type of route.
• Versatile, perfect for riding in adverse weather conditions, plus the feeling of cold is less than on a road bike.
• Cycle touring tours in stages. The option of spending several days with friends enjoying cycling is very attractive for those who want to enjoy a few days of sports vacation. In addition, stage tours are one more motivation to go out and train during the year. Races like the Andalucía Bike Race or the Costa Blanca Bike Race are a reference in the international MTB calendar. 

Just as there are different types of road bikes, the same applies to mountain bikes, and we can make the following distinction, depending on your tastes and training needs:

Front suspension, or “rigid” bikes: 

• Sport bikes: ideal for beginners in the practice of mountain biking, valid for any route.
• XC or “Cross Country”: those used for competition or for a more sporty side. They are similar to sport bikes, but with higher performance and better features.
• Trail or Hardtail: designed for fun, as you can enjoy constant descents and climbs. 
• Fatbikes: ideal for use in snow or sand, but also suitable for certain mountain routes. 
• Dirt Jump or “campillo” bikes: designed for jumping and doing “tricks”.

Dual suspension:

• XC full suspension: for more demanding use.
• Trail or All mountain: for all types of terrain.
• Enduro: to enjoy especially in the descents of a route.
• DH or Downhill: designed only for more radical descents.

Final choice

To choose one or the other option you must evaluate the use you are going to give to your bike and your budget. 

Price is a factor of great importance for most people, so in most cases it will be a matter of assessing whether you prefer a road bike with more basic components or a mountain bike with less economical components. Finding the balance point between both extremes is what will allow you to make a decision with guarantees.

If you have any questions or want advice, don’t forget to contact us.