Mountain Bike Parts & Components

Parts & Components

Mountain biking is a different sport than road biking. It uses a bike that, while bearing a resemblance to the road bike, is completely different in many ways. (see a picture of a mountain bike)

Bearing:
-Contains small steel balls which enable the wheel to move smoothly. Also situated in the bottom bracket, pedals and handle bars.

Chainwheel:
-In a mountain bike, there are normally three.

Crank:
-On the frame, helps the pedals turn.

Pedal:
-You push the pedals with you feet, powering the bike. (Did we really need to tell you that?)

Frame:
-Smaller than on road racing bikes. This makes it stronger and easier to control. The vertical tubes are also less upright for added comfort and smoother steering.

Freewheel/Gear Cable:
-Freewheel contains five, six, or seven sprockets.
-Gear cable connects the hear lever to the chainwheel or freewheel gear systems. Covered in a plastic tube called the housing.

Handlebar:
-Also known as the stem.

Grip/Handlebars:
-Handlebars normally are a flat design, with a slight curve.

Nipple/Spoke:
-The nipples are tiny tubes at the beginning of the rim which hold the spokes.

Rim:
-Made of aluminum for light weight.

Seat/Seat Post:
-Height can be adjusted. Normally lowered for downhill riding.

Shocks:
-Replacement for the normal fork that has either air-oil or air-damper and work to absorb vibration from riding. Can be engineered for the back of the bike also.

Sprocket/Derailer Gear System:
-So-called because the chain is thrown from one sprocket or chainwheel to the next; in other words, de-railed.

Top Tube:
-Positioned low so it is less dangerous if you fall.

Wheel:
-Normally approximately 66cm (26in.) in diameter.