Choosing a Bike

When it comes to mountain biking in the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), riders have two main choices: a full suspension mountain bike or a hardtail mountain bike.

Hardtail

A hardtail mountain bike is a type of off-road bicycle that has a rigid frame and a suspension fork on ONLY the front wheel. This makes the hardtail mountain bike lighter and more efficient at climbing hills and riding on smooth trails. Hardtails are often used for cross-country riding and racing, as well as for general recreational riding on dirt trails and gravel roads.

Full Suspension

A full suspension mountain bike features a suspension system on both the front and rear wheels. The suspension helps absorb impacts and vibrations from rough terrain, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride for the rider. Full suspension mountain bikes are designed to handle more challenging terrain. They provide better traction and control on technical descents, allowing riders to maintain speed and stability on steep and rocky terrain. However, the added weight and complexity of the suspension system can make full suspension mountain bikes less efficient at climbing and riding on smooth trails compared to hardtail mountain bikes.

Within these primary categories are additional sub-genres of bikes each with their own advantages and disadvantages. With an overwhelming amount of brands, models, and years of bikes all at varied price points, it can be difficult to determine what to features prioritize and how to make that decision.

  • The most important thing to consider is the rider's height, weight, and skill level to ensure you get a bike that fits them properly, is well maintained, and is appropriate for their abilities. This is more important than any “brand name” or model. Heavy consideration should also be placed on how the bike will be used during the off-season as well as the riders motivation for joining the team.

  • Most members of our team and kids at the races will be riding a used sub-$1000 full suspension bike with a sub-classification of “Trail”. Trail meaning it has medium levels of suspension (Under 140mm of travel front and back), making it comfortable for descents without making it too heavy to peddle uphill.

    The reason this is the most common bike out there vs an XC/cross-country specific bike is because most kids are not out chasing podiums. They spend most of their time on their bike with friends and family and want a comfortable bike that works well for them in the off-season. As your rider progresses, should they decide a podium is what they want to chase, there are lots of team members and coaches that are happy lend advice before jumping into a major bike purchase.

  • As mentioned earlier, most kids are riding used bikes. Either hand-me-downs from parents or siblings, or bikes found via classified ads. Should you decide to purchase a new bike, Trek and Pivot are official sponsors of NICA and offer discounts to NICA athletes. Locally, we have some great shops, all of which are familiar with the league and are happy to help you find the right bike for your needs.