Can Mountain Bikes Be Used On The Road?

At A Glance

Mountain bikes (MTBs) are great machines to travel on those off-road trails. But can you switch the terrain and bring them along for the road? Find all you wanted to know about MTBs and road biking in the guide below!

Introduction

Want to escape the traffic or make your daily commute more exciting? You may have several reasons to use your mountain bike (MTB) on the road. But is it safe? Is it appropriate? Will it damage your MTB?

If these are the questions running in your mind, then read on to find the answers to them.

Let’s begin with the most pressing of all, ‘Can mountain bike be used on road?’ Yes, mountain bikes can be used on the road, but it’s not easy.

Are mountain bikes harder to ride?

Mountain bikes aren’t all that hard to ride if you’re using them on the right terrain. Their light frame, large tires, and durable wheels make these rugged bikes perfect for rough trails. Although they are primarily meant for off-road cycling, they can be used on the road.

Here are some reasons why riding an MTB on the road might be difficult for some.

MTBs Require More Effort

MTBs are harder to pedal. They also travel slower on the pavement. However, this can easily be handled with a change of gears.

MTB tires are wider and have a higher rolling resistance. This is a useful component when you’re out on a trail but not so good on the road.

Simply put, more rolling resistance means you’ll need to exert more energy to push the tires forward.

MTBs Are Heavier

MTBs have more features and components. The brakes, suspension systems, and large frames of MTBs make them much heavier than road bikes.

MTBs also have different suspension, seat adjustments, handlebars, and gear adjustments. This makes them easier to ride when on a mountain trail but not on roads.

That is why it is necessary to adjust your MTB accordingly before taking it out on the road.

Terrain

Roads aren’t without obstacles or potholes, but they’re nowhere close to the difficulty level of mountain terrain. MTBs are well-equipped to handle the wear and tear of these terrains, but they’ll do just fine on the roads as well.

Another factor that is affected by the change in terrain is the braking capacity. MTB brakes can deal with some hard braking when on a mountain trail. Roads may not require such hard braking due to terrain, but they’ll come in handy anyway.

Overall, riding a smoother terrain with an MTB isn’t going to be a problem.

Tips to Use Your MTB on the Road

Are you going to be using your MTB on the road more than once or twice a month?

Then you better make some adjustments to your MTB. Here are a few to consider.

Adjust the suspension

If you’ve got an MTB with a rear suspension lockout, then you can use that feature. Then leave 3 to 4 inches suspension in the front to minimize shocks from potholes.