Should I Upgrade My Mountain Bike Or Buy A New One

The first thing to consider is what you are going to use the bike for. If you are a casual rider, then upgrading your mountain bike might be enough. However, if you are an avid mountain biker, then it is worth considering buying a new one. The next thing to consider is the current condition of your bike. Is it in good condition? Or does it need some work? If it needs work then it might be worth considering getting a new one because of the cost of repairs and maintenance that would need to be carried out on an old bike.

Is it worth upgrading an old mountain bike?

If your bike is more than a few seasons old, it likely makes more sense to upgrade to something new that will offer better suspension performance, more current standards and bigger wheels. Kids on bikes and enjoying the great outdoors!^[1]

How often should you replace mountain bike?

With proper maintenance a mountain bike can last over 20 years. This duration is highly dependent on where you ride and how much you ride. Some items will wear out, tires, chains, brake pads and drivetrains will not last forever. When it comes to longevity careful maintenance is everything.^[2]

Should I upgrade my bike frame?

It is better to buy one bike frame and have it last you a decade or more than it is to buy a new bike every three years – both from a pocket orientated and sustainability perspective. Investing in your frame doesn’t necessarily mean buying the latest and greatest.^[3]

When should I replace my mountain bike frame?

Your bike doesn’t fit you all that well. You can’t find the parts you need for your bike. Your singletrack tastes have evolved. You can’t find good parts for your bike. Your frame is compromised. The new parts you’re eyeing are too expensive.^[4]

What should I upgrade first on a mountain bike?

3. What To Upgrade First On Your Mountain Bike. The first thing to upgrade is anything that might be bothering you, or to fix any annoyances on your bike. That might look like different grips, wider bars (or in some cases to cut your bars down), a shorter stem, more grippy or lighter tires, a saddle and pedals.^[5]

Is it worth upgrading a cheap bike?

You’ll always be limited by the frame. And buying a cheap bike just to upgrade it is usually not cost effective. The frame will always be heavy and bad. It will dictate what kind of headset (-> fork, stem), seatpost, wheels and brakes you can install.^[6]

Can you ride long distances on a mountain bike?

Mountain bikes are good for long-distance travel. They are strong, can take a beating and are reliable. It might take a bit more effort compared to a road bike but a few minor changes make a big difference. Plan ahead and take the proper precautions to deal with accidents or parts breaking down.^[7]

How long does a mountain bike frame last?

Depending on the frame material, how well it is maintained, and how hard it is used, bike frames last anywhere from 6 to 40 years. Carbon and titanium bike frames will last the longest with proper care, with some even outlasting their riders.^[8]

When should you get a new bike?

2 to 3 years is the average time for cyclists to get a new bike. There are many reasons to motivate you to buy a new bike, some of them are real and understandable, while others are just marketing tricks and traps affecting your decision.^[9]

How often should you replace bike?

To summarise, a bike will have a lifetime of approximately five everyday-riding years before it gets shot to pieces. This lifetime can be extended indefinitely through new components and diligent maintenance (or instantly shortened in the case of a crash).^[10]

Is it worth upgrading gears on bike?

Putting lower gears on your bike will make it easier to climb hills. But, note that easier is not necessarily the same thing as faster. In fact, in all likelihood, if your friends are getting up hills faster than you are now, if you put easier gears on your bike, they will beat you even worse.^[11]

Should I fix old bike or buy new?

If the integrity of the frame is compromised, it’s time for a new bike. If the frame is bent, cracked, rusted through, has broken welds, a stuck seatpost or bottom bracket, it’s time for it to be retired.^[12]