Because of the extra weight, they are harder to accelerate, hill rides are more tiring, and bumps are more jarring. Some of the frames and forks on the lower priced models are poorly constructed. This can make it harder to replace wheels if you have to fix a flat. They are five to seven pounds lighter, have a wider selection of low gears, and have brakes and shifters that are much easier to operate. These bikes often have smoother shifting, bumps are less jarring, and tires track better.
Lower gears make riding uphill easier.
Frames made from chrome-moly steel are lighter and allow bikes to absorb shocks. Aluminum frames are light, but their fat tubes are poor shock absorbers. The better bikes will have a small chainring with no more than 24 teeth, and a large one with at least 42 teeth. On the rear, the gear cogs on the back wheel should range from 11 teeth to at least 28. Safety helmets Just as important as the bike, is the safety helmet that you select.