road bike vs mountain bike???

P

prana

0
I have been intersted in getting into biking. I live in an area that is very flat and I think that a long distance road bike would be ideal. however, when I go out of town, the thought of trail riding and mountain biking sounds like fun as well. (I have never tried either of these)
Should I invest in a good road bike and buy a less expensive mountain bike or can I get one that serves both purposes?
I dont have any friends that do this so I really dont know anything about this. Like what brand. how much to pay, (on a budget), what to look for ect.
Any advice that would help me in the right direction would really be great!!!!
 
I trail ride about 3 days a week. I also have a hybrid that I use for light trails and the road. BUt it is not ideal for just road riding. I spent about 400 on my trail bike
 
First of all, don't buy a new road bike or a new mountain bike. I would suggest renting or borrowing a bike and going out on a group ride. (You should be able to find a local group ride catered to novices online.) Do at least one group ride on the road and off road before you buy anything. Then, buy used. There are great deals to be had used and even after spending a few $$$ at your local bike shop to get it in top condition, you will still be ahead.

But, you really can't have a bike that goes well on the road and offroad (i.e., hybrid). That is like trying to have a sexy 2-seat convertible that can also haul lumber and pull a boat.
 
I agree with trying it out. I HATE road riding. N0 desire to ever do it again. BUt I love getting lost in the trail in the woods and the challenges of it all. I get a much better workout in the woods mostly due to where I live and the rapid inclines.
 
Mtn Bike. Too many idiots driving cars even if your in the "safety" of the bike lane. The trails are amazing. Fire roads are good for beginners. The workout is more intense and being able to just stop and check out your surroundings is a thrill. I'm not a rock hopper or down hill madman but I enjoy my time in the mtns like nothing else. Having done both types of riding I can say I am a trail rider from now on. Used and customized is probably the way to go but the technology on the new stuff is very cool.
If you decide to mtn bike ride learn the rules of the trail. Get off your bike for horses, be cool with hikers, respect the environment, use good judgement with downhill speed and don't poach the protected trails. I can spend 4 hours riding in the mtns of my area and only travel 10 miles. You can take a Mtn Bike on the road but a road bike in the mtns is not practical. Although I did see some folks from New Zealand with Mtn Unicyles on the trail.
 
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