So I'm really into roadbiking, but have recently started to enjoy mountain biking. I have a standard mountain bike (Trek 3700), but want to know what are several upgrades I can make to the bike that will actually make a difference. (ie. bike saddles do nothing) Do shocks make a difference, or cranks? I really have no idea. Thanks!
that link has nothing to do with my question. he is selling a bike. im asking how to upgrade a bike. two completly different topics.
Where do you live. Just curious. For a few years thee I did a lot of biking back on those trails on the south side of Memorial Park...but never got really into it. Shocks are, of course, very important, but I can't speak to specifics. I'd suggest googling for a mountain biking forum out there. There's bound to be some good ones.
yes nearly everything will make a difference. first off, are you a casual weekend rider? or do you ride more than 3 times a week. the 3700 is a very entry level hardtail MTB. it would cost quite a bit of money to upgrade depending on what you want to get out of it. suspension makes a very noticeable difference as they reduce shocks and can smooth out a very rough ride. cranks makes difference as well since a better crank can be lighter and stiffer. other things that can make drastic difference, wheelset, reduce weight and better quality, tires are very important as well. deraillurs are very important as well, lower end deraillurs ghost shift during rough terrains for me. one major thing people over look is the stem, make sure its the right length for you, more expensive stems are lighter, same goes for handle bars, and saddle posts. lastly, peddles can make a huge difference as well, you can get lighter peddles with traction grips, awesome for uphill and wont slip off. ask me for any MTB related questions.
If you're really going to mountain bike a lot, you'll eventually need a new bike. But, just to make sure you like it, upgrade the rear derailleur unless yours shifts smoothly even when mountain biking. Smooth shifting is probably the most important thing. XT rear derailleurs can be had pretty inexpensively and last longer than the XTR stuff. Higher end cross country wheels and tires can significantly reduce rotational weight which can make a big difference if you go on long rides or ride with people faster than you. You won't probably won't notice a big difference in cranksets. Cheap front shocks don't tend to last long if ridden off road regularly either. Pedals can make a big difference as well. Time ATACs are much easier to get into and out of than Shimano pedals.
Oh yea. If you consider a new bike, ride a full suspension bike before you buy another hard tail. Your body takes a lot less abuse on a full suspension bike so you can go longer with less fatigue.
