The best thing about buying a mid-range bike is the fact that you have money to spend on upgrading your bike. You can always find the latest accessories that are easy to install yourself at your local bike shop. The following accessories are relatively inexpensive, are easy to install and will improve your ride.

Bar Ends - If you decided to purchase bar ends, they will increase your power and control as you climb up steep hills as well as give you plenty of hand positions for riding on roads.

Toe Clips - These are great because the straps keep the ball of your foot centered over the pedal where you will get the most out of each stride. They are also very helpful for things like bunny hops because you are able to pull up on the pedals with your feet. They may take a bit of getting use to, so practice before you hit the trails!

Tires - If you are going to upgrade one thing on your bike, this is probably the best place to start. Mid-range bikes come with tires that are knobby enough to get by with on trails, but the knobbier the tire the more traction you'll have.

Saddles - Most entry-level bikes come with generic saddles. If you purchase a new saddle you can get it customized to serve your riding needs. Most mountain bikers prefer a narrower saddle because it allows you to slide back easily for going down hill or trying to get better traction.

Clipless Pedals - This is probably one of the most expensive upgrades you'll find because you have to buy the clipless pedals along witht eh shoes to fit. If you decided to install a pair of clipless pedals, you won't be sorry! You have total connection witht the pedals which means that all of your energy is focused on propelling the bike forward and isn't lost between your foot and the pedal. They are hard to get used to at first, but we're sure that you won't give them up once you've figured the out!