Mountain bikes are specifically designed for off-road cycling. It shares similar characteristics with a regular road bike but is heavier, more complex, and more durable to withstand rough terrains. MTBs look more enormous and robust compared to other types of bikes.
First-time buyers would typically ask – how much do mountain bikes weigh? The standard weight of a mountain bike goes from 28 to 32 pounds. Still, the weight depends on the size and material used for the wheels, frame, and fork.
To find out more, you can check a mountain bike weight chart or read this page below:
Table of Contents
Mountain Bike Weight
Mountain bikes come in different types, which highly depend on the purpose. You will find in the market variations like cross country mountain bikes, enduro mountain bikes, electric mountain bikes, and downhill mountain bikes. The weight of a mountain bike can go from 28 pounds to 32 pounds.
They also come in various materials, which can directly affect the weight. The materials used for tires, fork, frame, and drivetrain correspond to a particular weight and make up the overall weight of your MTB. Tires account for most of the MTB weight, while the drivetrain accounts for the least.
To elaborate, we have compiled the different types of mountain bikes, from the lightest to the heaviest. You will understand why one type is heavier than the other:
1. Cross Country Mountain Bike
This is a lightweight mountain bike. Cross country mountain bikes should be as light as possible. It is used to endure long and steep climbs that require the weight to be lighter. It normally functions for fire roads and moderate descents and is not robust compared to other types.
So, how many kilograms should a cross-country MTB be? You will find cross-country mountain bikes with a weight of around 10.8kg or 24lbs. It is the lightest type in the market today. The frame of a cross-country mountain bike is extremely lightweight and made of aluminum or carbon fiber. The lightest type is made of carbon fiber bike frame but can be more expensive.
2. Trail Mountain Bike
A trail mountain bike is the second lightest among MTB types. Compared to a cross-country bike, a trail bike is an all-purpose MTB that you can use on steep and rough roads. They typically weigh around 13.2kg or 29lbs.
3. Enduro Mountain Bike
The next type is the enduro mountain bike. It is similar to trail bikes but can function better on a descending slope. Its components are also the same as a downhill bike. This type of bike is specifically configured to ensure tough mountain trails, such as ascents and steep descents.
With this function, enduro mountain bikes should be robust, strong, and heavy. They weigh around 25 to 30lbs to handle challenging terrains. These bikes can be very heavy and normally comes with an aluminum frame or steel. These materials are heavier compared to carbon fiber.
Enduro bike also comes with a hardtail component or suspensions found at the front of the equipment. The rear axle is straightforwardly mounted into the bobber frame and comes with a front suspension fork. This makes the MTB perfect for descent trails.
4. Downhill Mountain Bike
Downhill MTB is one of the heaviest mountain bikes available today. It weighs around 30 to 45lbs. Most are made of steel and aluminum material. Some come with titanium material, making them heavier but extremely durable.
The frame of a downhill mountain bike can also be made of high tensile steel. This material is one of the heaviest steel that could be used on a mountain bike. For those looking for a lighter one, you can look for Chromoly material, but you need to pay a higher price.
Downhill bikes should be made with materials that can allow them to perform in technical descent at the fastest speed. This type should be sturdy and able to withstand heavy impact from sudden jumps or drops. It is a full-suspension mountain bike and comes with stronger linkages, too.
5. Electric mountain bikes
E-bikes have giant mountain bike weight. Most electric mountain bikes are extremely heavy. They are constructed with batteries attached to them. This allows the cyclist to complete biking in all types of terrain. Pedaling using an electric bike is easier, you can perform steep climbs easily, but they are more expensive than other bike types. Electric mountain bikes weigh around 18kg or 45lbs.
6. Freestyle mountain bikes
Freestyle mountain bikes are very flexible equipment. If you have no trail to follow, you can pick a freestyle mountain bike. You can use it going up or down a hill, and it will work just as fine. It is similar to enduro bikes and comes in the same weight.
You will normally see a freestyle mountain bike made of carbon steel, aluminum, titanium, or hard steel. If you want the lightest mountain bike, go for carbon fiber. If you need something heavier, pick aluminum or steel.
Why Are Mountain Bikes Heavy?
Weight does matter when it comes to mountain bikes. They perform more rigorous activities compared to commuters or road bikes. The mountain bike weight can impact the performance of the bike, especially on challenging and high slope terrain.
MTBs come with specialized mountain bike weights. They are made of highly durable material. Some of the contributing factors to the weight of the equipment are the wheels, fork, frame, and drivetrain. These components, when assembled together, make the bike heavier.
1. Wheels
More than 30% of the MTB weight is from the bike wheels. The wheels are the number one contributing factor to why your equipment is heavy. They need to be robust and powerful, so they can support your weight, pressure, and stability when on the road.
2. Fork
The fork is another reason for your heavy MTB. The weight of the fork corresponds to 15% of your bike equipment. The front fork suspension itself comprises 15%, then you can add the handlebar and stem.
3. Frame
The weight of the frame can be light or heavy, depending on the material used. It is almost 12% of the total weight of your MTB. If you have an aluminum steel frame, the weight can be heavier.
4. Drivetrain
The last factor that adds to the weight of an MTB is the drivetrain. It makes up around 8% of your whole bike. If you add the chain and other components, it can go up, too.
What Are the Things You Need to Consider in Choosing an MTB?
Choosing a mountain bike seems easy. But aside from your skill set, lifestyle, and purpose, there are other factors you need to consider. Here are the things you should also consider when it comes to mountain bikes:
1. Energy consumption
If you are looking for a bike that does not require much energy, look for the types that are lighter. Heavier bikes require you to allot more effort pedaling because you have to carry the weight of the bike, as well.
On the other hand, lighter ones require less energy and are easier to pedal, but they are not recommended for rougher terrains. Still, you do not need to pedal harder in order to increase your bike speed.
2. Climbing performance
Typically, a basic mountain bike has the capacity to climb an upward slope. If you are using a heavier mountain bike, you need more power to propel towards the top. If you frequently go outdoors and climb steep mountains, lighter bikes like trail mountain bikes are ideal. You can also use a cross-country bike, they are constructed to be lightweight, so the user can use them in steeper terrain.
3. Downhill handling
Heavier bikes are better for downhill handling. Downhill and enduro mountain bikes are better when used downhill. They give you more stability and can perform better because of their heavier weight. The additional weight on the machine allows them to handle descents at top speeds.
What is a Good Bike Weight for MTB?
A good mountain bike weight for a mountain bike depends on the user. If you normally climb a steep slope, pick a cross-country mountain bike with an average weight of 10.8kg or 24lbs. Knowing how heavy is a mountain bike can help you a lot in difficult terrain.
The weight can endure a long and steep climb. But if you love going downhill, a downhill mountain bike, which is one of the heaviest, is the perfect one for you.
Conclusion
Getting the right weight for your mountain bike is crucial. It can make or break your riding experience. Depending on the purpose or your lifestyle, the weight of the mountain must be one of the top considerations.
Good thing, we were able to share with you this guide on how much do mountain bikes weigh and help you understand the impact of weight on a mountain bike. This way, you know the type suitable for your biking needs.
“I ride my bike to work for years, but is that enough? Our carelessness towards our surroundings has taken a toll on the environment. And now, everyone is responsible for changes; even the most minor contribution is counted. With this hope and spirit, I started with my partner to establish Biketoworkday to help more individuals commute to their work sites on their bikes.”