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Folding mountain bikes are essentially practical bicycles, which are easy to store and transport. These mountain bikes can be folded in seconds and you will not even need any special rack for these bikes. Just put it inside your suitcase and carry it like another piece of luggage inside a car, boat, train or even inside an airplane.

The folding technique of mountain bikes is a patented military design and it was initially used to develop full-sized folding bikes for the US Marines and paratroopers for strategic use.

A folding mountain bike is a bit expensive when compared to a non-folding mountain bike. Despite the price-factor, purchasing a foldable bike will be advantageous in every respect. Actually, the manufacturers of folding mountain bicycles have not compromised with the sturdiness or toughness of the bikes in making them foldable (and hence portable).

As regards choices, these days you simply have plenty of choices with manufacturers like Airnimal, Montague launching a great many models that allow easy, convenient loading and unloading. Select from among the many lightweight yet tough bikes, choosing as per your requirement.

Following beneath are descriptions of some top foldable mountain bikes available in the market:

Hummer

Montague-made Hummer is a high-tech folding mountain bike. The Hummer bicycle, designed after full-sized military bikes, has normal wheels with knobby tires and hence it can be used on any terrain. It takes around 30 seconds to fold a Hummer and the folded bicycle measures just 36inches x 28inches x 12inches. The folding is accomplished without the use of tools.

The Hummer is essentially lightweight yet it is perfectly tough and durable. Other plus-points of this bicycle are Shimano precision index shifters for a quick gear change, 24 speed Shimano drive train and a front suspension with a front disk brake.

Paratrooper Mountain Bike

The market-leaders have launched yet another folding mountain bike, the Paratrooper Mountain Bike. A very tough bike, the Paratrooper folds and unfolds in less than 30 seconds. This superb braking power and excellent engineering behind this Montague bike makes it unparalleled for rugged terrains. Montague also markets important accessories like foldable pedals and carrying cases , both hard and soft cases.

Airnimal Rhino

Airnimal Rhino, Airnimals first officially launched off-road bike is a folding mountain bike. Its 20inch wheels and front and rear suspension make it perfect for all terrains.

Giatex Stretching Bike

The Giatex Stretching Bike is based on a new folding concept. In this case, it is not the frame that folds from the middle, rather the steering column and the rear part that are folded down. The folded bike measures about 37 inches.

Bike Fridays

Bike Fridays made by Green Gear Cycling Inc. are revolutionary finds because they are collapsible bikes rather than foldable. The assembling and disassembling takes time, but the new bikes are, performance wise, excellent.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
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Launched in the year 1995 by the award winning German design firm Riese and Muller, the Birdy bikes are lauded in the international market because of their innovative design and performance. The revolutionary dual suspension design of a Birdy folding bike introduces that smoothness to each ride that is otherwise characteristic of expensive full-sized bicycles only.

The first fully suspended folding bicycles, the Birdie bikes make use of one-piece solid yet lightweight aluminum frames. The suspension pivots take care of the folding mechanism in the absence of the mainframe hinges. This clever designing together with the use of 18 inch wheels make the bikes very stable and sporty.

The Birdy bicycles fold in less than 30 seconds without the use of any tools. With the folded size of a Birdy bicycle being some 30″ x 23″ x 11″, it is quite easy to store them in small places and carrying cases. The lightweight frames (mostly weighing around 24 lbs) make the Birdy bikes very portable.

The different gearing options, firm framing and dual suspension design of Birdy folding bikes render them suitable for being used for many purposes other than commuting. Use them for pleasure rides and touring as well as for sporting use.

Famous Birdie Models

Some of the most popular Folding Birdy Bikes are:

Birdy Red Foldable Bicycle

1. Frame Aluminum foldable frame (weighing 24 lbs) with Hydro Forming
2. Forks Aluminum folding fork with spring suspension
3. Derailleur Shimano, RD-MC20-S
4. Brakes Shimano, BR-M420-S
5. Shifter Micro shift, D60-8R, index, 8-speed
6. Chainwheel Sunrace, PR-06, 56T chainring 170mm crank length
7. Rims Alex, DV-15, 18″ FV 24 H anodized ground side walls
8. Headset DiaCompe, STS, Diacompe STS- 1-1/8″

Birdy Silver Foldable Bicycle

1. Frame Aluminum foldable frame (weighing 23.1 lbs) with Hydro Forming
2. Forks Aluminum folding fork with spring suspension
3. Derailleur Shimano, RD-F700SGS
4. Brakes Shimano, BR-M420-S
5. Shifter Shimano, SL-F700, 9 speed
6. Chainwheel Sunrace, PR-06, 56T chainring 170mm crank length
7. Rims Alex, DV-15, 18″ FV 24 H anodized ground side walls
8. Headset DiaCompe, STS, Diacompe STS- 1-1/8″

Birdy Ice Blue Foldable Bicycle

1. Frame Aluminum foldable frame (weighing 26 lbs) with Hydro Forming
2. Forks Aluminum folding fork with spring suspension
3. Derailleur SRAM, Dual Drive 8 speed
4. Brakes Tektro, 834AL, V-brake w/90 degree pipe
5. Shifter SRAM, Dual Drive, 24-speed w/clickbox
6. Chainwheel Dotek, PRO6-210, 56T chainring 170 mm length
7. Rims Alex, DV-15, 18″ FV 24 H anodized ground side walls
8. Headset DiaCompe, STS, Diacompe STS- 1-1/8″

Birdy-BionX Foldable Electric Bike

The Birdy-BionX combo makes use of a BionX electric conversion kit, which works in tandem with the folding bike from Birdy. Be it to ride up steep hills and mountains or ride (rather glide) beyond your pedaling capacity, the Birdy-BionX bikes are just unmatched.

Distributors

The ultimate in comfort when it comes to riding on any terrain and that in spite of its compact folded size, the Birdie bikes are a great favorite among bike-enthusiasts across all continents. Sale of Birdy bicycles is not limited to Europe (distributed by Riese und Muller), instead they are distributed by different dealers in various parts of the world:

1. In Australia by PED Bicycles Pty Ltd.,
2. In Japan by Mizutani Bikes,
3. In Singapore by Two Wheel Action Pte Ltd,
4. In the USA by C.M. Wasson Company, David Black and NYCeWheels (they ship all over the place).

If you are looking for a lightweight-folding bike that is stable and gives you a controlled ride at an attractive, if not cheap price, place your order with your nearest Birdy Bike distributor.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
read more about bicycles at
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com/Folding-Bikes.html

Mountain Bike Tours provide an extremely exciting journey to take on. The mountain bike Tour packages are not like any other ordinary tour during the holidays, but journeys really exciting and adventurous. It gives you the opportunity to take on tough challenges and experience the vibrancy of different regions and cultures as well. If you feel interested, you would get plenty of opportunities, because there is a flourishing market for such rides.

Tours and packages

The tours on mountain bikes can be arranged by buying the vacation packages and through travel agents. But arrangements through touring guides would be the best option. The touring companies provide the tourists with guides, and some of the companies offer self-guided tours as well.

Mountain bike tour packages are usually organized for two or three days. They are generally arranged on dirt streets. There can be separate arrangements for women too. Nevertheless, if you are a novice, and taking on such a challenging journey for the first time, you must go for a well organized guided tour

Initially, it is going to be a difficult task to choose the right tourist agency. The best idea is to go with an established company, who can give full assurance of service and safety. You can also find the necessary information on the Internet.

Before booking, kindly check the cancellation process. Mostly, the tour companies do not charge any penalty if you are canceling your tour within 60 days of booking. But if you cancel it exactly on the starting day, the tour company usually forfeits the entire money.

In a guided tour, you would be shown the best suitable trails for biking. The guides frequently visit these places and are well acquainted with the local mass. Hence, you would not have to worry about which way to follow and where to stop, refresh or camp.

You must enquire about the touring company also before booking your ticket so that you are acquainted with the people who would be your companions. Some of the agencies would allow your family members to join and some would not. In some cases you have to bring your own bicycle with you, and it would solely be your responsibility to take care of it. The bicycle must have tough frames, good brakes and gears. You must also bring your helmet and gloves with you.

The most important thing while taking on a journey is to read a map and know the basics of navigation. You must also be prepared for an emergency, like a sudden injury or a breakdown. You also need to be a bit investigative in your approach, and decide where to ride and which place to avoid.

Wish you a journey full of energy, adventure and exploration.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
read more about bicycles at
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com/Mountain-Bikes.html

BMX Bikes are specially designed bicycles for racing on sandy and hilly tracks. Apart from racing on hilly terrains, bikers also perform tricks on flat grounds, wooden ramps and trails.

Earlier, bikes were manufactured with an assembled frame and fork, with two wheels and a seat. BMX bicycles originated in the state of California in the late 60s, but it was not until the beginning of 1961 that the bikes achieved great popularity. The manufacturers then began to produce these bicycles frequently.

BMX tricks and stunts are now very popular among the teenagers. There are numerous clubs and organizations where people can come to try their hands out on the BMX bicycles and practice the skills and tricks. With these early practices, the young bikers get acquainted with the common problems that may occur during the ramp performances.

Bike tricks are not easy for bikers. The stunts are quite tough to perform and you should undergo tough rehearsals in order to get fully ready. Some of the difficult tricks are like standing on the front pegs, and spinning the rest of the bike around. The skillful bikers can even summersault in the air. It may take lots of practice to master these tricks.

While riding the bicycles you should have ample protection. You must protect your elbows, knees and most importantly your head with the helmet. If you are interested in a look at the toughest BMX competitions, the X games on various sports channels can help you out.

The Designs Of BMX Bicycles

The main features of the bike:
1. Straight tubes
2. Gusseted frames
3. Reinforced handlebars
4. Powerful mag wheels
5. Long crankarms
6. Steel rims
7. Coaster brakes

The bike producers manufacture bikes with light body. The body of this bike is made of aluminum or chromium and molybdenum for frames and steel for the rims. Aluminum is also used for rims, freewheels and caliper brakes. The 24-inch versions of BMX bicycles are called Cruisers.

The frames of these bicycles are made to be very light and maneuvered accordingly, so that it can weather the blows while racing and jumping. Moreover, a light bike can save you precious minutes in a close race.

The tires of BMX bicycles are quite different from the road bikes. They are knobby with excellent traction and power. Another aspect that distinguishes the BMX tires from the others is in the construction of their wheels. Generally the rims are of 20 inches, but there can be different sizes too.

Sometimes the BMX bicycles fall hard and that is why the manufacturers have introduced Cro Moly tube sets to the BMX bicycles. A BMX bike with smaller gear set-ups reduce the weight of the bikes by using chain rings, smaller rear drivers, and shorter chain length.

Sales of these bicycles are much higher than the other ones. Bikes can be seen with every fashionable bike rider, on sidewalks and in their natural habitat. Instead of competing with anyone, a simple ride would be much more comfortable. While riding you have to be very conscious, and should not make too much experiments with your tricks. Do not forget to wear a helmet whenever you are riding.

Thus, the BMX bicycles are both, fashionable and powerful, providing you the ultimate passion for fashionable biking.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
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Dirt bike tires are quite a sine qua non for those untamed, rough or uneven grounds. These tires have knobby; deep treads for that ultimate grip on loose dirt, mud, or gravel. You surely can not do without dirt motorbike tires if you want to hit the unpaved road for that matter.

Dirt bikes or Trails Bikes are off-road, lightweight bikes that are specially designed for rough terrains. This calls for tough tires and not to mention suspension. Unlike the conventional street motorcycles, these bikes have lesser engine power way below 500 cc.

Tires are the most important part

Dirt bikes manufacturers in the likes of Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Husqvarna, Husaberg and KTM make sure that these bikes as sturdy as their knobby tires. The most important part about dirt bikes is their tires because achieving maximum grip is precisely what you want.

It is usually found that motorcycles employ pneumatic tires. As far as off road motorcycles are concerned, you will find that to do away with punctures the tires are filled with a kind of mousse. There is no dearth of configurations as regards both the tires whatsoever. And did you know that the contact patch is a key feature of any tire. This is that part of the tire that comes in contact with the road surface in course of riding.

Truth be told, it is the tires of a Dirt Bike that goes through a lot of wear and tear. Believe it or not, do not be surprised if after one tough trip, it loses out on its traction. So make sure that test out the tread on the tires following each ride. Fixing your attention to the front tire is all that you need to do.

Before you hit the road make certain that your motorcycle is ready for it. From the motorcycles lubrication, to the engine, from the lights to the mirrors and of course the tires, everything needs to be ready.

Say NO as to driving on roadways with slicks or bald motorcycle tires. But if you indulge in it there are chances that you will hydroplane on wet roads. Try to look whether the tires are worn out or not. You will surely not want to venture on road with depleted tires.

Dirt motorcycle tires are specially designed tires that help the bike to combat the toughest of roads. Well, you must know that dirt bikes require stronger sidewalls to resist puncture. And with deeper grooves that help to dig deeper into mud and dirt, these tires are just about prefect for dirt bikes.

You must know that motorcycle tires are build around a steel rim. In fact, the size, material and shape of the motorbike tires are the ones that contribute to the performance of the bikes. All you need to do is settle for the right type of tires that best suits your bike.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
read more about bicycles at
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Pocket sized and petite, these two words best describe pocket bikes. These bikes are magnificent mini road crackers. Built with aluminum steel frame, the bike provides great fun and entertainment to all enthusiastic riders. Pocket bicycles offer minimum speed and velocity on road and thus they can simply be termed as rocket racers on road. However, a lot depends on the size and weight of the individual riding the bike. The less the weight of the rider the faster the bike will move.

The inside story

When opting a suitable pocket bicycle, it is always better that you gather some information before you put your feet on the brakes. A perfect choice is the first way to maximum biking pleasure. Pocket bicycles run on both gas and electricity. The bike that runs on gas is comparatively cheap because they utilize negligible gas for their whole day movement.

Apart from being cheap, the pocket bicycles powered by gas run faster than the others do for they can easily catch up with speed and move forth with tremendous force and swiftness. The bikes on gas run on batteries, which need to be charged as per necessity.

A pocket bike running on electricity is specifically ideal for the smaller ones, and you can shop a pocket bike in both departmental and motorcycle shops.

Things to consider before going for a perfect pocket ride

1. The purpose of using the bike
2. The person for whom the bike is to purchased
3. The place where you live
4. Which model of the bike will be most suited to your purpose

Once you have purchased the bike then with a little care and attention, the bike will serve you for many years.

Check the power and potential of the pocket bike type you opt to purchase. Do it yourself for no one else can choose the perfect riding partner for you. In such matters, instincts do speak at times.

You must be sure about the robustness of the bike because durability of the mechanism definitely matters. Make sure to buy the bike from a reputed store and check the return policy offered by the dealer.

Safety

When riding a pocket bicycle it is better to be extra careful and cautious on road. This is mainly for the speed the bike imparts. While riding, be sure to wear safety equipments like helmets, elbow pads, kneepads, gloves and shoes.

In many cases, adults make use of pockets for racing purposes. Such races should take place in safe and secluded areas where the bikers have less chances of being injured. Never ride a pocket bike in heavy traffic areas.

Maintenance and storage

When you purchase a bike, you will definitely want it to last for long. Maintenance is the key word, which keeps a bike alive for several years to come. For this, you only need to have a regular replacement of the worn out parts of the bike. This is the best way to empower your bike for an effective output.

Storing a pocket bike is not at all a problem as it can be well fitted in one particular corner of the room. A proper storage is essential as several weather conditions can cause much damage to the material with which the bike is constructed. Therefore, select a safe place for your bike and get rid of unnecessary tension.

A Pocket bike is a great way to ride and enjoy. When compared to other contemporary models, the pocket stands out to be the best and the most outstanding.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
read more about bicyclesat
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It is always better if you manage to get an authentic dirt bike in exchange of a small amount; in that case, cheap dirt bikes would be a good option. A 4000cc dirt bike can cost you almost $8000. So, if you are willing to enjoy the irresistible excitement in a small cost, then used bikes would be suitable for you.

Where to buy a cheap dirt bike

If you are vigilant enough to choose the right model for yourself, you can get several options. Initially, you have to decide which dirt bike model you will purchase. You must also be very particular about your budget. In this case, you must approach the dirt bike dealers, since they are much cheaper than the established dealers. You can get the necessary information about dirt bikes from the classified pages of the local newspaper and the Internet as well.

There is another way out to purchase dirt bikes; that is through auctions. There are quite a number of websites, which arrange for such online auctions. Through these sites you will be able to know about the exact locality where the auction will take place, and would not have to loiter around much.

In order to use a second hand bike, you need to have a substantial knowledge about different parts. The dealer would show you something very shiny and well kept from outside. But that does not mean that the bike itself would be good as it looks. If you do not know enough about the dirt bike parts, take a friend with you who can judge the condition of it.

The private sellers too can be a good option for buying a second hand dirt bike. But before buying, make sure that it is not a stolen bike. If the bike looks a bit overused, and you find the numbers missing or altered, then it could surely be a stolen bike. You have to be very cautious about this matter, because, there are plenty of examples of such thefts.

Before buying, you must inspect the bike closely, and ask some relevant questions regarding its previous owners, date of manufacture and other subtle details. You must also ask the seller if the bike has ever been raced or not. The seller would tell whatever you like to hear and you must be very watchful in these matters.

Make sure that the clutch and the gearbox are all right and no jarring sound is coming out of the bike. Finally, if you are convinced and ready to purchase it, you must take the bike for a mock ride to test its potential.

In order to take the bike for a mock ride you have to follow these rules:
1. With the help of the rear wheel and the swing-arm, move the bike forward to check the swing-arm bearings.
2. Repeat the process with the front wheel and move the bike backwards and forwards.
3. Pay attention to the top ends and the timing chain and check if there is any bizarre noise coming out of it.
4. Kick the bike once to feel the compression.
5. Examine the kick-starter seal, and also check if oil leaks from anywhere.
6. Have a feel of the brake disks too.
7. Bend the bike side wards and have a good look underneath.

All these conditions need to be checked to be sure you have an A grade bike.

Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
read more about bicycles at
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com/Dirt-Bikes.html