1. Pick your discipline

Mountain bikes are built for different purposes — pick the type closest to your riding to avoid buyer's remorse.

• XC: Lightweight and efficient for climbs and long rides.
• Trail: Versatile with moderate travel (100–130mm) for most local singletrack.
• Enduro: More travel (140–170mm) and sturdier for aggressive descents.
• DH: Purpose-built for gravity — best for bike parks.

2. Hardtail vs Full Suspension

Hardtail: Lighter and mechanically simpler — great for XC and smoother trails. Full suspension: Better traction and control on technical terrain; recommended for most trail and enduro riders.

3. Suspension & setup

Match travel to terrain and prioritize proper damping setup. Look for bikes with adjustable geometry or lockout to increase versatility. If you’re unsure, a local suspension tune is a good investment.

4. Wheel size & handling

Wheel size affects how a bike handles:

• 29" wheels: More rollover and stability — great for XC and rolling terrain.
• 27.5" wheels: More agile and playful — preferred by riders who like nimble handling.
• Mullet (29 / 27.5): Increasingly common for aggressive riding to combine stability and agility.

5. Components to prioritize

For trail riding, prioritize reliable brakes, grippy tires, and a dropper post. Modern 1x drivetrains simplify shifting and reduce weight.

6. Quick buying tips

• Test-ride on terrain similar to where you'll ride most.
• Look for last-season deals — big savings for minimal spec differences.
• Factor in local serviceability and suspension tuning costs.