Archive for March, 2009

Choosing a Shimano Mountain Bike Component

Mountain bike components are designed to withstand more abuse and extreme riding conditions. These components are heavier, sometime larger and more durable then road bike components. Sometime you are riding on dirt, rock, or in water, etc and the components need to be durable enough so they can withstand abusive treatment.

It just so happened that my rear derailleur broke on my full suspension mountain bike. I was riding a down hill trail and lost control of my bike. The rear of the bike ended up hitting the face of a rock and I was left with a mangled rear derailleur. So I looked at the positive side of the accident and said to myself now is the time to upgrade.

I could find new or near new parts on Bike Servant which is a mountain bike classifieds website and lists mountain bikes for sale, bike parts and race events but I was in the car with my bike so I decided to go to the store.

On the way home from the trail I stopped at my local bike store to buy a new derailleur so I can resume riding as quickly as possible. I told the bike shop guy my situation and she asked me which aftermarket Shimano derailleur I wanted to buy. Not knowing anything about the different categories in the Shimano product line I asked for help and this is what she relayed to me.

Shimano Deore is their entry level category. These products are inexpensive and meant for the occasional or enthusiast rider. These components are stocked on entry level mountain bikes.

Shimano Deore LX is their next level in higher quality. This category level consists of a more durable product. The main difference that I noticed is that Deore LX is lighter then Deore. My derailleur was a Deore LX and it has shown me proven quality and reliability for many years.

Shimano Deore XT was referred to as their heavy duty category. This product category is not considered race quality performance but they are light weight and more durable then the LX category. The price difference between the LX category and the XT category was noticeable.

Shimano XTR is considered their high performance category. Again these parts are lighter then the XT category. As a consumer I took notice to the price increase from XT to XTR. It appeared to me that this category appeals to the racers that demand light weight and high performance.

Keep in mind that this is not a complete list of Shimano’s product line. It is the list that my bike store carried.

So in my quest to buy a new derailleur I decided to purchase the Shimano Deore XT because of its light weight, durability and price. I had the bike shop install it for me and I was back on the trail in no time.

Posted by Bike Servant: Experience with full suspension and hardtail mountain bikes, bike parts and organizing race events for mountain biking.


Mongoose Status 3.0 26 Mountain Bike with Full Suspension


Mongoose Status 3.0 26 Mountain Bike with Full Suspension



Mongoose – Bikes – Mongoose bikes don’t just push the limits; they set new ones and they have been doing so since 1974. Mongoose builds for riders, which is why their BMX designers aren’t wasting any time. They get themselves out there testing new designs at the park, on the track and on the hill to make your ride more comfortable. Mongoose takes pride in making superior merchandise, having outsta…


Chainsmoke (Mountain Bike) [VHS]


Chainsmoke (Mountain Bike) [VHS]


$9.95


Shot entirely on 16mm film, Chainsmoke is packed with racing, freeriding, interviews, crashes, and an awesome soundtrack. Featuring shaun Palmer, Tinker Juarez, Alison Sydor, Myles Rockwell, Missy Giove, and many others! This film will make you want to ride! …

Full Medal Status - The Shockingly True Story of Mountain Biking's Rise to Gold Medal Status


Full Medal Status – The Shockingly True Story of Mountain Biking’s Rise to Gold Medal Status


$48.50


In the shadows of Mt. tam, mountain biking’s founders realized that following the path less traveled did wonders for the adrenaline system and a sport was born. Since then, tens of thousands of others have ardently agreed. And now, less than two decades later, mountain biking proudly accepts its inauguration as an official Olympic sport with full medal honors. Full Medal Status serves up awesome r…

Bike Garage


Bike Garage


$19.95


Bike Garage is the best way to teach yourself basic bike repair and maintenance. Learn how to tune your bike like the pros. Fully interactive menus allowing you to watch itemized repairs. Tons of tips and tricks, emergency repairs, parts diagrams, and much more! Saup to date gear, mountain or road this film has it all. Start saving money today and fix your own bike….

Klunkerz - A Film about the Development and Birth of Mountain Bikes


Klunkerz – A Film about the Development and Birth of Mountain Bikes


$89.97


Brand new, in the shrinkwrapper never been opened or played this Klunzerz. A VD about the birth and growth of mountain bikes. In the late 1960’s and early 1970’s a handful of hippie cyclists literally reinvented the wheel. These early pioneers scavenged frames from dumpsters and junkyards and lifted parts from road bikes and motorcycles to build a better way down the mountain. Little did they real…

ContourHD 1080p Full HD Helmet Camera


ContourHD 1080p Full HD Helmet Camera


$329.00


A water-resistant camera for all seasons, its light (4.3 ounces/123 grams) anodized aluminum body withstands dust, dirt, mud, and snow. It is also shock, vibration and impact resistant….

GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with (2) Batteries + Case + Accessory Kit


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with (2) Batteries + Case + Accessory Kit


$299.95

Kit includes:
♦ 1) GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing
♦ 2) GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery
♦ 3) Additional GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery
♦ 4) Sunpak Platinum Plus Digital Camera/Camcorder Case
♦ 5) Precision Design 5-Piece Lens Cleaning Kit
♦ 6) Precision Design Mini Microfiber Lens Cloth with Neoprene Po…


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with 16GB SD Card + Battery + Case + Accessory Kit


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with 16GB SD Card + Battery + Case + Accessory Kit


$304.95


Kit includes: ♦ 1) GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing ♦ 2) GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery ♦ 3) Transcend 16GB High-Capacity SecureDigital (SDHC) Card ♦ 4) Sunpak Platinum Plus Digital Camera/Camcorder Case ♦ 5) Precision Design Memory Card Storage Wallet ♦ 6) Cameta Microfiber Cleaning Cloth The GoPro HD Helmet HERO…

Fox Men's Dirtpaw Full Finger Glove


Fox Men’s Dirtpaw Full Finger Glove


$21.99


The hands guide and control the motorcycle and are one of the most critical contact points between the rider and motorcycle. The Fox Dirtpaw glove enhances that connection with several key features to assist the rider….

Fox Women's Bandana Dirtpaw Full Finger Glove


Fox Women’s Bandana Dirtpaw Full Finger Glove


$21.95


Popular comfort in a simple fit. The Dirtpaw performs above it’s price range Padded palm construction, flex-point comfort and gritty toughness Updated with Pawtector-series chassis upgrades Hook and loop wrist closure 2010 Model…


Lombardo Men's Visoke 270 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Men’s Visoke 270 Mountain Bike


$384.99


The light weight alloy frame of this Lombardo Visoke 270 men’s bike is matched with Shimano derailleurs to make pedaling a breeze. This bike comes equipped with a rear carrying rack, fenders, and an enclosed chain guard.

Lombardo Shavano 24U Mountain Bike


Lombardo Shavano 24U Mountain Bike


$389.99


The Lombardo Shavano 24U mountain bike features a lowered alloy frame that allows shorter riders to ride comfortably. Shimano derailleurs and a suspension fork help ease strain on the body during more challenging rides.

Lombardo Alverstone 300 Green Mountain Bike


Lombardo Alverstone 300 Green Mountain Bike


$419.99


The Lombardo Alverstone 300 makes daily trail riding and commuting a pleasure for the average rider. This dependable bike features a light alloy frame, front shocks, aggressive tires, and Shimano derailleurs.

Lombardo Alverstone 300 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Alverstone 300 Mountain Bike


$431.99


The Lombardo Alverstone 300 makes daily trail riding and commuting a pleasure for the average rider. This dependable bike features a light alloy frame, front shocks, aggressive tires, and Shimano derailleurs.

Lombardo Women's Kalahoo 24 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Women’s Kalahoo 24 Mountain Bike


$299.99


The Hi-Ten frame of this Lombardo Kalahoo 24 women’s bike is sturdier and lasts longer, and the bike’s low frame set and high handlebars keep riders sitting upright. The Shimano derailleurs insure that this bike will be shifting smooth for a long time.

Derailleur


Derailleur


$10.9


When Cheryl joins an American mountain bike team, she and Will face smugglers, hit men, and rabid environmentalists — as well as a more engaging distraction: their attraction to each other.

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Mountain Bike Product Safety

A few months ago one of my friends called to tell me he was going to be late to the trail because he had a part on his bike that was being recalled. He wanted to stop at the bike shop and have his part replaced before our regularly scheduled ride. I too thought it was a good idea to get the part replaced before our ride so I told him that I will see him when he is finished at the store.

When I met up with my friend later in the day I asked him how he found out about his recalled part. He told me that his wife signed up for email alerts on product recalls. She subscribes to these email notification to be aware of toy issue for their children and it just so happened that a mountain bike part was on the email.

Just like other consumer products, mountain bike products occasionally get recalled for various reasons. I do not want to speculate so I am not going to give examples. It is important to be aware and not to ignore these recalls because your safety could be in jeopardy.

So in an effort to keep riders aware of product recalls the links below will direct you to the Consumer Affairs and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission websites. These sites will allow you to search their database for product recalls that might pertain to your bike, gear or both.

The two sites listed below are not meant to be the all encompassing sources of information. It is to help you get started in you product recall search. If you come across more sites with mountain bike recall information let us know and we will add it to the list.

Check out the websites below.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

- www.cpsc.gov/

Consumer Affairs

- www.consumeraffairs.com/recalls/recalls.htm

You can find new or near new parts on Bike Servant is a mountain bike classifieds website which lists mountain bikes for sale, bike parts and race events.


nClamp® iPod Touch Clamp | The only rugged clamping mount for the Apple iPod Touch (1st Generation). With an nClamp your iPod Touch is held firm and its controls fully accessible, while the display is angled and sensitive to the touch of a single finger.


nClamp® iPod Touch Clamp | The only rugged clamping mount for the Apple iPod Touch (1st Generation). With an nClamp your iPod Touch is held firm and its controls fully accessible, while the display is angled and sensitive to the touch of a single finger.


$39.95


With the nClamp iPod Touch clamping mount, you can clamp your iPod Touch (1st Generation) to an exercise bike, wheelchair, walker, golf cart, desk drawer, kitchen cabinet, car window, workshop shelf, hospital bed, stairclimber – virtually any surface imaginable.The nClamp′s cradle, constructed of high-strength composite, is designed to comfortably and securely hold the iPod Touch 1G (we also…

Huffy Rugged Racer 3 Wheel Scooter


Huffy Rugged Racer 3 Wheel Scooter


$29.99


6″ steel frame, blue and yellow scooter. Extra wide deck. Adjustable rear wheels; easily converts from 3 wheels to 2 wheels. PVC tires with solid mag design. Padded handlebar….

nClamp® iPod Classic Clamp | The only rugged clamping mount for the Apple iPod Classic. With an nClamp your iPod is held firm while the display is angled, accessible and sensitive to the touch of a single finger.


nClamp® iPod Classic Clamp | The only rugged clamping mount for the Apple iPod Classic. With an nClamp your iPod is held firm while the display is angled, accessible and sensitive to the touch of a single finger.


$39.95


With the nClamp iPod Classic clamping mount, you can clamp your iPod to an exercise bike, wheelchair, walker, golf cart, desk drawer, kitchen cabinet, car window, workshop shelf, hospital bed, stairclimber – virtually any surface imaginable.The nClamp′s cradle, constructed of high-strength composite, is designed to comfortably and securely hold the iPod Classic (we also carry an nClamp for i…

nClamp® iPod Touch 2G Clamp | The only rugged clamping mount for the Apple iPod Touch (2nd Generation). With an nClamp your iPod Touch is held firm and its controls fully accessible, while the display is angled and sensitive to the touch of a single finger.


nClamp® iPod Touch 2G Clamp | The only rugged clamping mount for the Apple iPod Touch (2nd Generation). With an nClamp your iPod Touch is held firm and its controls fully accessible, while the display is angled and sensitive to the touch of a single finger.


$39.95


With the nClamp iPod Touch clamping mount, you can clamp your iPod Touch (2G or 3G) to an exercise bike, wheelchair, walker, golf cart, desk drawer, kitchen cabinet, car window, workshop shelf, hospital bed, stairclimber – virtually any surface imaginable.The nClamp′s cradle, constructed of high-strength composite, is designed to comfortably and securely hold the iPod Touch 2G/3G (we also ca…


Titan Fusion Mountain Bike


Titan Fusion Mountain Bike


$243.49


Exercise in style with this rugged all-terrain dual suspension mountain bikeBicycle features 18-inch unisex frame styleIncludes front disc brakes

Kawasaki 26-inch Dual Suspension Mountain Bike


Kawasaki 26-inch Dual Suspension Mountain Bike


$226.99


Kawasaki Bicycles aluminum full-suspension frame Bike has front and rear suspension Shimano TZ 21-speed drive-train

Titan Trailblazer 18-speed Mountain Bike


Titan Trailblazer 18-speed Mountain Bike


$195.99


Titan 18-speed all-terrain bike features twist shifting systemTrailblazer features suspension coil shock on forkSports & fitness or pure recreation, this bicycle does it all

Titan Pathfinder Men's All-terrain Mountain Bike


Titan Pathfinder Men’s All-terrain Mountain Bike


$177.02


Men’s 18-inch all-terrain mountain bikeBike designed with hi-tensile frame and fork18-speed friction gear system36-hole aluminum alloy rims1.95-inch all-terrain tires/tubes

Head Pro Elite Mountain Bike


Head Pro Elite Mountain Bike


$4423.99


This Head Pro Elite mountain bike features front shocks that lockout. With a C1 carbon frame, a hard tail and Shimano SPD’s you’ll be able to crank out some serious torque.

Titan Pathfinder Womens All-Terrain Mountain Bike


Titan Pathfinder Womens All-Terrain Mountain Bike


$177.02


High performance all-terrain mountain bike17-inch bike designed with hi-tensile frame and fork18-speed friction gear system28-38-48 tooth chain wheelV-style braking system

Lombardo Men's Freerider 3000 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Men’s Freerider 3000 Mountain Bike


$601.99


The Lombardo Freerider 3000 is a 24-speed hard-tail mountain bike meant for aggressive riding. The low-set alloy frame is designed for riding trails and hitting jumps.

Head Elite 27-speed Mountain Bike


Head Elite 27-speed Mountain Bike


$3036.99


This Head Elite mountain bike features Rock Shox on the front fork. With a carbon frame, hard tail, and a 27-speed drive train you’ll be able to crank out some serious torque off-roading or racing.

Titan Trailblazer Women's 21-speed Mountain Bike


Titan Trailblazer Women’s 21-speed Mountain Bike


$217.99


All-terrain mountain bike26-inch women’s bike designed with front suspension fork21-speed friction gear systemTwist shifting systemV-style braking system28-38-48 tooth chain wheel

Lombardo Men's Visoke 270 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Men’s Visoke 270 Mountain Bike


$384.99


The light weight alloy frame of this Lombardo Visoke 270 men’s bike is matched with Shimano derailleurs to make pedaling a breeze. This bike comes equipped with a rear carrying rack, fenders, and an enclosed chain guard.

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Finding Mountain Bike Trails

So you purchased a mountain bike and you have been riding for awhile. You are getting faster and more courageous on your mountain bike but you are getting bored riding on the same trails. You and your friends have realized that you need new trail excitement in your life.

So you have talked to your friends and people at the local bike shop for more information about trails in the area. Most of them pointed you back to the trails that you are familiar with but some have introduced you to a new trail or two.

To add to you trail information many of us in the mountain bike community suggest you try a very handy directory. This is a Google directory that lists sites which contain trail information. Once you browse the directory you will be surprised at all of the trails that riders have documented. I have found that no one site has all of the trail information so you have to browse through the directory.

The web address below will help you find the local mountain bike trails in your region. The link is a Google directory of mountain bike websites that list trail information. Most of the trails listed contain directions to the trail head so you know where you are going. So check it out it is pretty helpful.

Mountain Bike Trails

You can find new or near new parts on Bike Servant which lists mountain bikes for sale, bike parts and race events. See you on the trail.


Mongoose Status 3.0 26 Mountain Bike with Full Suspension


Mongoose Status 3.0 26 Mountain Bike with Full Suspension



Mongoose – Bikes – Mongoose bikes don’t just push the limits; they set new ones and they have been doing so since 1974. Mongoose builds for riders, which is why their BMX designers aren’t wasting any time. They get themselves out there testing new designs at the park, on the track and on the hill to make your ride more comfortable. Mongoose takes pride in making superior merchandise, having outsta…


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with (2) Batteries + Case + Accessory Kit


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with (2) Batteries + Case + Accessory Kit


$299.95

Kit includes:
♦ 1) GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing
♦ 2) GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery
♦ 3) Additional GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery
♦ 4) Sunpak Platinum Plus Digital Camera/Camcorder Case
♦ 5) Precision Design 5-Piece Lens Cleaning Kit
♦ 6) Precision Design Mini Microfiber Lens Cloth with Neoprene Po…


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with 16GB SD Card + Battery + Case + Accessory Kit


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with 16GB SD Card + Battery + Case + Accessory Kit


$304.95


Kit includes: ♦ 1) GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing ♦ 2) GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery ♦ 3) Transcend 16GB High-Capacity SecureDigital (SDHC) Card ♦ 4) Sunpak Platinum Plus Digital Camera/Camcorder Case ♦ 5) Precision Design Memory Card Storage Wallet ♦ 6) Cameta Microfiber Cleaning Cloth The GoPro HD Helmet HERO…

GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with 32GB SD Card + Battery + Case + Accessory Kit


GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing with 32GB SD Card + Battery + Case + Accessory Kit


$339.95


Kit includes: ♦ 1) GoPro HD Helmet Hero Video/Still Digital Camera & Waterproof Housing ♦ 2) GoPro HD Hero Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery ♦ 3) Transcend 32GB High-Capacity SecureDigital (SDHC) Card ♦ 4) Sunpak Platinum Plus Digital Camera/Camcorder Case ♦ 5) Precision Design Memory Card Storage Wallet ♦ 6) Cameta Microfiber Cleaning Cloth The GoPro HD Helmet HERO…

All About Mountain Bikes


All About Mountain Bikes


$3.25



Pacific Chromium Boy's Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (24-Inch Wheels)


Pacific Chromium Boy’s Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (24-Inch Wheels)


$106.95


This colorful 24″ Chromium is fully equipped for your kid’s adventures ride. The bike features full suspension and 18-Speed Torque Drive. Extra wide tires roll smoothly over pavement or grass….

Pacific Chromium Girls' Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (24-Inch Wheels)


Pacific Chromium Girls’ Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (24-Inch Wheels)


$106.95


This colorful 24″ Chromium is fully equipped for your kid’s adventures ride. The bike features full suspension and 18-Speed Torque Drive. Extra wide tires roll smoothly over pavement or grass….

Pacific Chromium Men's Dual Suspenstion Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels)


Pacific Chromium Men’s Dual Suspenstion Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels)


$107.98


This 26″ Chromium Bike is fully equipped for your adventures ride. The bike features full suspension and 18-Speed Torque Drive. Extra wide tires roll smoothly over pavement or grass….

Mongoose Maxim Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels)


Mongoose Maxim Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels)



Alloy rims for lightweight durability…


Pacific Chromium Girl's/Women's Bike


Pacific Chromium Girl’s/Women’s Bike


$151.84


This bicycle will bring you years of adventure rides. A myriad of features gives your a smooth and safe ride while giving them the chance to own the coolest bike in the neighborhood!…


Titan Fusion Mountain Bike


Titan Fusion Mountain Bike


$243.49


Exercise in style with this rugged all-terrain dual suspension mountain bikeBicycle features 18-inch unisex frame styleIncludes front disc brakes

Kawasaki 26-inch Dual Suspension Mountain Bike


Kawasaki 26-inch Dual Suspension Mountain Bike


$226.99


Kawasaki Bicycles aluminum full-suspension frame Bike has front and rear suspension Shimano TZ 21-speed drive-train

Titan Trailblazer 18-speed Mountain Bike


Titan Trailblazer 18-speed Mountain Bike


$195.99


Titan 18-speed all-terrain bike features twist shifting systemTrailblazer features suspension coil shock on forkSports & fitness or pure recreation, this bicycle does it all

Titan Pathfinder Men's All-terrain Mountain Bike


Titan Pathfinder Men’s All-terrain Mountain Bike


$177.02


Men’s 18-inch all-terrain mountain bikeBike designed with hi-tensile frame and fork18-speed friction gear system36-hole aluminum alloy rims1.95-inch all-terrain tires/tubes

Head Pro Elite Mountain Bike


Head Pro Elite Mountain Bike


$4423.99


This Head Pro Elite mountain bike features front shocks that lockout. With a C1 carbon frame, a hard tail and Shimano SPD’s you’ll be able to crank out some serious torque.

Titan Pathfinder Womens All-Terrain Mountain Bike


Titan Pathfinder Womens All-Terrain Mountain Bike


$177.02


High performance all-terrain mountain bike17-inch bike designed with hi-tensile frame and fork18-speed friction gear system28-38-48 tooth chain wheelV-style braking system

Lombardo Men's Freerider 3000 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Men’s Freerider 3000 Mountain Bike


$601.99


The Lombardo Freerider 3000 is a 24-speed hard-tail mountain bike meant for aggressive riding. The low-set alloy frame is designed for riding trails and hitting jumps.

Head Elite 27-speed Mountain Bike


Head Elite 27-speed Mountain Bike


$3036.99


This Head Elite mountain bike features Rock Shox on the front fork. With a carbon frame, hard tail, and a 27-speed drive train you’ll be able to crank out some serious torque off-roading or racing.

Titan Trailblazer Women's 21-speed Mountain Bike


Titan Trailblazer Women’s 21-speed Mountain Bike


$217.99


All-terrain mountain bike26-inch women’s bike designed with front suspension fork21-speed friction gear systemTwist shifting systemV-style braking system28-38-48 tooth chain wheel

Lombardo Men's Visoke 270 Mountain Bike


Lombardo Men’s Visoke 270 Mountain Bike


$384.99


The light weight alloy frame of this Lombardo Visoke 270 men’s bike is matched with Shimano derailleurs to make pedaling a breeze. This bike comes equipped with a rear carrying rack, fenders, and an enclosed chain guard.

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