What To Look For
Freeride mountain bikes combine the best components and features of downhill, dirt jumping, and technical mountain biking all in one bike. Unlike downhill bikes, they will have a steeper angled head tube and shorter wheel base for technical maneuverability. Freeride bikes are full-suspension bikes and most will have 180mm of travel in the front fork or close to it. You should be able to make quick adjustments to the front and rear suspension and even the saddle height. Some common models are the Trek Scratch 9, Yeti 4X, and Specialized SX Trail II.
Common Pitfalls
There is a common confusion between downhill bikes and freeride bikes because of the similarities in the sport. A downhill bikes will have a longer wheelbase which is used for maximum speed riding and racing down hills. A lot of the same technology, such as suspension, is used for freeride bikes but they have a shorter wheel base.
Where To Buy
You will most likely have to purchase a freeride mountain bike from a certified dealer such as your local bike shop. You can check the manufacturer's website for a distributer close to you. The Yeti 4X bike frame can be found online at Jenson USA.
Cost
For a top freeride mountain bike, you will spend somewhere between $4,000 and $6,000. The Trek Scratch 9 is retailed for $5,769 and the Specialized SX Trail II sells for $4,800. The Yeti 4X frame is listed online for around $1,800. These bikes have some very impressive performance components which often come with a steep price tag.
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