Bicycle Types - Mondraker Thundra R Manual De Usuario

1.3 Bicycle types

Bicycles can be used in a great variety of ways so it is increasingly important to tailor the bike's geometry
and parts to its intended use. It is important that you know the different bicycle types so you can use your
bicycle properly. Ride safely by knowing your bike's limits. Your dealer will be able to advise you about
which bike is best based on what you are going to use it for.
1.3.1 Road bikes
They are also known as racing bikes as they were used in the first road and triathlon competitions.
These bikes are used for fast rides, tough training and competition, especially on paved roads. They
are the lightest, most aerodynamic and fastest bikes. Their frames are made of very light and heavy-
duty materials to take full advantage of pedalling strength. Their geometry is designed so the rider
can adapt to the bicycle for more effective pedalling while keeping a more aerodynamic position. The
wheels of this type of bicycle have a wider diameter (28") than standard mountain bikes and their
tyres are very narrow to reduce friction with the ground.
1.3.2 Mountain Bikes
These bicycles are designed for use on every kind of surface. They give the rider greater comfort
and safety on irregular surfaces such as forest trails or mountain paths. Their components are very
resistant to stone impacts and adverse weather conditions. The geometry of the frame ensures the
rider is in a more upright position with greater freedom of movement for better control over the bike
on winding terrain. There are two kinds of mountain bikes depending on whether the frame has a
suspension system or not.
1.3.2.1 Rigid frame bike
This type of bike is designed for riding on trails and mountain paths which are not very rough.
Sometimes these bikes are equipped with light front suspension and disc brakes. These are
normally 20- or 30-speed bikes to adapt pedalling rhythm to the track you are riding on.
Note: These bikes are not designed for fast downhill riding or jumping. You are putting your safety
at risk.
1.3.2.2 Full suspension bike
The evolution of mountain bikes has led to the manufacture of full suspension bikes. They enable
riders to travel over rough terrain in greater comfort and also make descents easier by absorbing
bumps and potholes. Full suspension frames have been developed for more aggressive riding or
steeper descents. They normally have thicker tyres than rigid frame bikes for greater safety and
stability. They are made with tougher components and have longer front suspension travel. The
important thing is not weight but the reliability and strength of the materials that are exposed
to greater wear and fatigue. As a general rule, the geometry of this kind of bikes is designed to
provide more comfort and riding control rather than an effective position for pedalling.
1.3.3 Urban bikes
These bikes are used as a means of transport and come with 28" or 26" wheels. The rider's position
on these bikes is very comfortable. They have to be nimble and fast and equipped with everything
needed for travelling about town. They share many features with mountain bikes although their
frames are not as reinforced and they have components that are more suitable for their purpose.
1.3.4 BMX bikes
This category encompasses all bikes with 20" diameter wheels which are not exclusively designed for
children. The BMX category includes bikes exclusively for competition which are designed with much
lighter and heavy-duty components in order to withstand the high accelerations that occur in these
competitions. The other type of BMX bikes is Freestyle bikes used in urban skateparks or bikeparks.
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