Choosing the best downhill mountain bike

Downhill mountain biking is an extreme and exhilarating sport that combines excitement and speed. Downhill courses are laid out in areas of mountains, high hills and peaks and involve single track descents through narrow cuts and over rough surfaces. Routes can involve huge drops and jumps either over natural rock formations or artificially created. Riders compete individually in an effort to achieve the fastest possible time. It is definitely an adrenaline-fuelled sport that requires strong and responsive bikes.

Who enjoys DH mountain biking?

The sport of mountain biking is open to everyone with cycling experience and a good sense of balance. Those attributes are essential for top downhill riders as tough terrains are tackled at high speeds. With the potential for falls and injuries, protective clothing and accessories should be worn including full-face helmets and mtb goggles as well as chest and back plates.

Technical specifications for downhill bikes

At SCOTT Sports, every downhill mtb is designed for the bold rider with bikes being heavier and more rugged than other mountain bikes. This makes them specific to downhill mountain biking, as they would be too heavy for uphill work. A downhill mountain bike differs from other mountain bikes in that is has longer rear travels and front suspension forks that are generally between 200mm and 210mm. Wheels are usually 27.5 inches or 29 inches while bigger rotors in the disc brakes give bikes the added stability and control required by the discipline. A downhill mtb also carries fewer and smaller gears, allowing for extra clearance over obstacles on the route.