Mountain Bike Question?

a a · 08-22-2007, 04:23 PM

I am new to mountain biking and recently purchased a used 2001 Marin Hawk Hill. I am planning on getting new tires and possibly new shocks. My question is do most shocks fit on most mountain bikes? Also, are most mountain bike tires universal size (for 26 inch tires) and if not what are the different sizes?

Thanks

Mister E · 08-22-2007, 04:23 PM

This is a 2 part question, so 1 at a time;

1. Your bike is a few years old and the technology is constantly changing. Don't be afraid to take your bike to the local bike shop and ask them what they think about replacing/adding shocks. In my case, I ended up buying a new FS bike because adding shocks to my old one would not be worth the cost/effort, etc. I would suggest buying the best you can afford.

2. Mtn bikes have 26 inch wheels (diameter). You can change the width to whatever will fit in the frame. Typically, the widths are 1.95 or 2.1, but some are up to 2.5 but are mainly used in downhill set ups. For general trail or cross country riding, 1.95 is perfect. Remember the bigger the tire, the more weight. This is only an issue when going uphill.

Enjoy!

G-T Rider · 08-22-2007, 04:23 PM

well the shocks come in sizes; rear shocks have eye to eye size and front shocks have travel and the head tube, I say go to a bike shop and ask them to advise you shocks that will fit your bike, about tires yes the usual size is 26" but there are bikes with 24" but not bikes like yours yet there is a tire wideness also the bike shop will help you with that, I think 2.1" tires will be good

G-T Rider · 08-22-2007, 04:23 PM

well the shocks come in sizes; rear shocks have eye to eye size and front shocks have travel and the head tube, I say go to a bike shop and ask them to advise you shocks that will fit your bike, about tires yes the usual size is 26" but there are bikes with 24" but not bikes like yours yet there is a tire wideness also the bike shop will help you with that, I think 2.1" tires will be good