Mountain bikes have pros and cons, just like any other type of bike. So are they good or bad for commuting to work? If you live in an urban area, stick with a road bike over a mountain bike.
If you have an off-road at the end of your commute, adding some gravel or dirt may be beneficial for toughening up your transmission and suspension. So are Mountain bikes good for commuting?
It depends on where you live and what you do each day. When there is a significant percentage of off-road riding at the end of your journey, I will choose a mountain bike over any other option.
But if you stick to city streets and need efficiency on top of everything else. In that case, you should consider buying something different than a Mountain bike for your daily commute.
Also, make sure to check out my post on Here’s Why Do Mountain Bikes Not Have A Kickstand?
Can We Use Mountain Bikes For Daily Commuting?
Mountain bikes are one of the best options for commuting in an urban environment. There are many benefits to using Mountain bikes for your daily commute, and it doesn’t matter what type of work you do or how far away your destination is.
I’ll explore some advantages and disadvantages of using a mountain bike during your daily commute.
Advantages Of Using A Mountain Bike For Commuting
- When you use a mountain bike for your daily commute, you have to pedal harder than usual, and your muscles would feel sore the next day. A mountain bike will be best for someone who needs to reach a workstation and exercise to stay fit.
- Mountain bikes are designed for riding both on and off-road. Your regular road bike will only be of use in some places. This is because mountain bikes are much sturdier and more adjustable than regular road bikes. You can ride on rougher terrains like dirt roads or rocky single tracks without feeling unsafe.
- Using a road bike, you will always stick to the main roads and won’t venture off into dirt tracks or gravel hills. Most people stay in their comfort zone when using a road bike, even if they may want to explore other places. However, mountain bikes open up new possibilities, as stated above.
- You don’t have to worry about flat tires during the day, as mountain bikes are much sturdier and more durable than regular road bikes. This is even more important if you use your bike for commuting long distances on rough terrain or off-road tracks. When riding a bike on an off-road trail, there are times when you have to make sudden swerves, and if the bike is flimsy or doesn’t have a broad wheelbase, it will be challenging for you to manoeuvre.
- A more adrenaline-filled ride: If you live in an area with trails on your way to work, then it’s worth considering using a mountain bike instead of another type of bicycle because you’ll be able to get that much-needed rush from going off-road.
- Can carry heavier loads: If you’re considering using your mountain bike for commuting, they can take a lot of weight in their frames compared to road bikes and other types of bicycles. Carrying a lot more load on your bicycle will be helpful if you have some work stuff or school books that you must take daily.
- More control over steering: Mountain bikes have wider tires than regular road bikes, making them more suited for rough and unpaved roads. This means you’ll be able to drive with greater control and precision on off-road trails while commuting.
- Can carry a more incredible speed: Compared to road bikes, you’ll maintain the same speed on a mountain bike even if you don’t have much experience riding off-road trails or rough grounds.
- Easier and more durable brakes: If you’re going to use your bicycle for commuting purposes, then you should know that mountain bike brakes are easier to use and make for a more reliable braking experience, even when going downhill at full speed.
- Better shock-absorption properties: You’ll enjoy smoother rides on your mountain bike compared to road bikes because of the shock-absorption properties built into them. Your ride will be significantly more comfortable if you consider using it for daily commuting.
Despite all their advantages, mountain bikes may be slower during your daily commute than road bikes.
You might think riding a mountain bike on the city streets will be a race against time, but it’s not. You can never ride as fast as you would in an off-road environment, so if speed is what you want, then using a regular road bike may be a better choice for your daily commute. Considering all this, these are the five most significant advantages of using a mountain bike for your daily commute.
Drawbacks Of Using A Mountain Bike For Commuting
- It is heavier than road bikes, resulting in a more challenging climb.
- A 26-inch wheel has more rolling resistance than a 32-inch wheel.
- It is easy for tire knobbies to wear down on a warm and dry road.
- Pedaling with suspension could be more efficient.
- On highways or paths, moving at a slower pace requires more effort.
- Due to its more advanced features, it is costly.
How To Convert A Mountain Bike To A Commuter?
Step 1: New Tires And Tire Pressure
If you’re going to be commuting or doing recreational riding, then you need to swap out your knobby off-road tires for slick tires to reduce rolling resistance. The type of tire you choose will also affect your speed. Dual sport tires can give the perfect balance between off-road grip and on-road traction.
Step 2: Saddle Position (Fore-aft, Height)
Adjust the saddle to be more upright, and raise or lower the seat post to get your desired saddle height. Swapping the saddle for a more comprehensive road bike model will also help with comfort.
Step 3: Addition Of A Mirror
You won’t need to check your rearview at every stop sign and traffic light while on the road, so adding a small, cheap bike mirror can help you see if cars are approaching from behind. This will also give you additional feedback for cornering. (Plus, it adds an extra bit of safety.)
Step 4: Remove Or Lockout Suspension
You don’t want your rear shock absorbing the bumps and road vibrations on your commute, so you must bypass it. One tactic is to remove the shock entirely. Still, you’re also planning to use a mountain bike for off-road riding. In that case, lockout mode is a better choice because it allows the shock to move through its travel on uneven terrain. You can lift your bike and turn the dial on the lockout, typically at the base of your seat post or on the suspension fork.
Step 5: Rack On Back
Mounting a rear rack will help you carry any items you pick up, such as groceries or your work shirt. This is also an excellent opportunity to add mud flaps and fenders, which will help reduce road spray from getting in your eyes when you’re at speed.
Step 6: Lights And Reflectors
Get front and rear lights for night riding so people can see you while you commute. Reflectors are also a good idea if your bike is parked longer.
Step 7: Mud Flaps And Fenders
If you’re planning to ride in the rain, then mud flaps will help keep your drive train clean and dry and maintain road spray off of you. If you’re riding in snow, fenders are also a good idea.
Step 8: Handlebar Ends & Bars
Some mountain bikes have straight handlebars with no ends to them. There are better options for road riding than this because it can put more strain on your wrists and make gripping the bars uncomfortable. Go for a set of drop bars instead.
Step 9: Handlebar Type
Mountain bike handlebars come in many different styles, including flat, riser, bullhorn and swept-back, to name a few. Flat bars are suitable for most recreational riding since they have the most comprehensive range of hand positions; however, you’ll still want drop bars for road riding to help reduce fatigue in your hands and wrists.
Step 10: Pedals
Mountain bike pedals can’t clip into clipless road pedals, so you’ll want to get a set of platform pedals instead. These will allow you to use regular road shoes and still give you some grip while pedalling when the weather isn’t so hot.
Step 11: Gearing
The gearing on a mountain bike is optimized for off-road riding, so if you’re going to be commuting or doing recreational road riding, you’ll need to change it up. Consider looking into a 1x type drivetrain (one front chainring with an integrated sprocket) common on newer mountain bikes or even a road triple setup.
Step 12: Extra Parts And Accessories
Depending on your riding style, consider adding some extra equipment, such as bar ends, grips, and a dropper seat post.
What’s The Best Mountain Bike For Commuting?
A 29-inch rigid MTB, such as a bike packing bike, is best for commuting. A rigid bike is lighter, cheaper, and more efficient than a hardtail if the suspension fork has a lockout.
MTBs that are ideal for commuting should also have rack and fender mounts. You should replace the stock tires with slicks or semi-slicks if you will mostly ride on asphalt.
The good news is that you don’t have to spend much money. Most modern mountain bikes have disc brakes and relatively wide gearing.
Getting from A to B is entirely doable with an entry-level bike as long as a reputable brand makes it. Instead of overkill specs, spend your money on essential commuting gear!
FAQs About Mountain Bikes For Commuting
Q: Can I Use A Mountain Bike For Commuting?
A: Yes, mountain bikes are great for commuting. They are versatile, durable, and can handle a variety of terrains and weather conditions.
Q: Do I Need A Suspension System On My Mountain Bike For Commuting?
A: A suspension system is unnecessary but can make your ride more comfortable, especially if riding over rough terrain.
Q: Are Mountain Bikes More Expensive Than Regular Bikes?
A: Mountain bikes can be more expensive than regular bikes, but affordable options are also available.
Conclusion:
So, are mountain bikes good for commuting? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a versatile bike that can handle a variety of terrains and provide a comfortable ride. In that case, a mountain bike may be a good choice.
However, a road bike or hybrid bike may be a better option if you’re primarily commuting on pavement and looking for a more efficient ride. Ultimately, the most important thing is choosing a bike you feel comfortable riding daily.
Also, you have to check out my post on the 10 Best Mountain Bike Sunglasses: Protect Your Eyes On MTB Riding.
