MTB Categories

What’s inside this week:
1. There’s always one guy that pitches up for a group ride and seems totally out of place! Time to clear up the confusion, and let’s put every rider in their place!
2. Gadget of the week. (Since gadgets is what I do, it will be a staple in the newsletter.)
3. Short of the week.
4. MTB stoke of the week. A clip to get you amped to go ride.
5. Get Involved. Sometimes Polls, sometimes a question and sometimes I’ll wing it.

Mountain Bike categories.

The world of mountain biking can be confusing, especially if you are getting into the sport. A good place to start is to understand the categories, type of riding and the MTB’s involved.

XC - this stands for Cross Country. This rider is almost always ready to race, bristling with excitement at a big climb and will sport shaved legs! We all know this guy that looks like a road racer, is here for one thing only. You know it will hurt to keep up on the climb when this guy or girl is present. He pitches up in bib shorts and tight fitting jersey, and won’t be seen dead on flat pedals. Clipless all the way!

Racing bikes are light (mostly carbon fiber), short travel bicycles with 80 - 120mm travel. Designed to provide efficient power delivery and to climb well.
 
The most well know rider in this category is Nino Shuter, and shout-out to local hero Alan Hatherly for an amazing ride at the Olympics XC race and then went on to win World XC Champion! Well done Alan, making us proud!

Bikes in this category:
Top: Specialized Epic Pro / Trek Top Fuel 9.8
Mid: Scott RC Comp / Orbea OIZ H10
Budget: Merida 120 300 / Titan Drone Dash hardtail

Down Country - Think of Down Country as the rebellious younger sibling of Cross Country. This rider is more about fun, mixing the efficiency of XC with a thirst for adventure. They thrive on climbs but live for the descents, blending the best of both worlds. You’ll spot them in bibs under their baggy shorts that still hint at their XC roots, and while they might still rock the clipless pedals, they’re not afraid to let the leg hair grow!

Down Country bikes are the ultimate do-it-all machines—lightweight and nimble, like their XC cousins, but with a bit more muscle. With 120-140mm of travel and slacker geometry, these bikes are built to climb efficiently and then tear down the descents with confidence. They're perfect for those who want a capable bike that can handle technical trails without sacrificing the ability to tackle long climbs.

Riders in this category are pushing the boundaries of what an XC bike can handle, blending speed with fun on the trail.

Bikes in this category:
Top: YT Izzo / Yeti SB 120
Mid: Canyon Neuron 5 / Scott Spark 910
Budget: Trek Top Fuel 5.5 Gen 3 / Titan Cypher Dash

Trail - The Trail rider is the jack-of-all-trades, master of fun. This rider loves versatility and is always ready for whatever the trail throws at them—be it a tough climb, a flowy descent, or a technical section that tests their skills. Follow them and you’ll see what flow look like on trails. Roots, rocks and drops - that’s dessert. You’ll find them in baggies, and light protective gear, ready for anything from an all-day epic to a quick after-work shred. They might be on clipless pedals or flats, depending on the mood or the trail.

Trail bikes are the Swiss Army knives of the mountain biking world, with 140-150mm of travel and balanced geometry that can handle both climbs and descents with ease. They’re built for riders who want a bike that’s as happy charging downhill as it is powering up a steep ascent. These bikes are perfect for those who value versatility, offering the right mix of efficiency and capability for a wide range of terrain. *This really is the bike most riders that’s not racing, in SA, should be riding.

Riders like Andrew Neethling, though known for downhill and massive jumps, have been known to grab a Trail bike for their off-season sessions, proving that these bikes can do it all. Local legends and weekend warriors alike make the most of every trail, from smooth singletrack to challenging rock gardens.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Giant Trance Advanced Pro / Commencal T.E.M.P.O Signature / Scott Genius
Mid: Titan Skyrim Dash / Cannondale Habit Carbon 2
Budget: Giant Stance / Specialized Stumpjumper Alloy

Enduro - The Enduro rider is the adrenaline fueled cyclist who believes that climbing is just the price you pay for the downhill thrills. They’re the ones who look at a trail map and head straight for the gnarliest descents, but only after begrudgingly earning their turns. You’ll find them decked out in full-face or ¾ helmets and padding to survive a small avalanche, because in Enduro, speed and airtime is the goal. Clipless or flats? That’s a personal debate, but one thing’s for sure: they’re here to send it, not to take it easy.

Enduro bikes are built to handle serious downhill action while still being capable climbers. With 150-180mm of travel, slacker geometry, and beefy components, these bikes are designed to take big hits and keep the rider in control, whether they’re bombing down rocky chutes or navigating tricky switchbacks. They’re perfect for riders who want a bike that can do it all—especially when “all” includes racing the clock on technical descents.

YT rider Jack Moir is always good to watch, consistent in the race scene with his unique style, while weekend warriors push the limits of their local trails, proving that Enduro is as much about attitude as it is about equipment.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Scott Ransom / Santa Cruz Nomad
Mid: Trek Slash / Giant Reign
Budget: Specialized Status / GT Force Sport

Downhill - The Downhill rider is the slightly unhinged, thrill-seeking “daredevil” who treats gravity like a playground. They’re the ones who skip the pedaling part entirely—shuttling to the top of the mountain and racing to the bottom as if their lives depend on it. To call this rider eccentric is putting it mildly; they’re a mix of fearless and just a tad crazy, but always good-natured about it.

Downhill bikes are built for one thing: going down, fast. These machines are purposefully designed to handle the most extreme descents with ease. With 200mm or more of travel, ultra-slack geometry, and burly components, these bikes are engineered to absorb massive impacts and maintain control at insane speeds. Whether it's ripping through rock gardens, launching off drops, or threading through gnarly root sections, Downhill bikes keep the rider planted and in command of every hair-raising moment.

Legends like Greg Minnaar have cemented their place in history with fearless, pinpoint precision on the world’s most daunting courses, while amateur riders push their limits on local downhill tracks, showing that Downhill isn’t just about the bike—it’s about the sheer thrill of conquering gravity, one brutal descent at a time.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Specialized Demo Race / Commencal Supreme DH V5
Mid: For both Mid and budget options, you’d be better off finding a good used bike in your local classifieds.

Dirt / Street / Park - These riders are the acrobats of the MTB world, pulling off tricks that defy gravity and logic. Their bikes are small, nimble hardtails (and occasionally full suspension) designed for dirt jumps, pump tracks, street spots, and skate parks. Dirt, street, and park riders know the real meaning of pain—just ask them about their shins and flat pedals. They’re the ones always ready to bust out a manual, hop a bunnyhop higher than most people’s handlebars, and ride lines that others didn’t even know existed. If you’ve ever seen someone make trail riding look effortlessly stylish, they probably have one of these bikes stashed in their garage.

Riding dirt is a proving ground for skills that translate across all MTB disciplines. Jumping, manuals, spins, and bike control are all honed on these 26” wheeled trick machines, making them the perfect playground for developing unmatched finesse. However, a jump bike is pretty much a one-trick pony—it’s great for dirt and park, but don’t expect it to handle the rough stuff on a trail.

When it comes to gear, dirt and park riders keep it casual but functional: loose-fitting t-shirts, baggy shorts or stretchy skinny jeans, and open-face helmets for style points. Durable, flat-soled shoes (paired with flat pedals) provide the grip and control needed for all those tricks, ensuring they stay in command whether they're in the air or sticking the landing.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Canyon Stitched / Commencal Absolut
Mid: DMR Rhythm / Specialized P3
Budget: GT La Bomba

Freeride / All mountain / Gravity - The freerider rider is the one who sees the entire mountain as a playground, where no rock drop, steep line, or massive jump is off-limits. They’re the thrill-seekers who blend the technical precision of downhill with the creativity of dirt jumping, always looking for the biggest lines and the gnarliest terrain. These riders aren’t just about getting down the mountain—they’re about doing it with style, flair, and a dash of recklessness. Think dirt jumping on an industrial scale. Events such as Hardline, Slopestyle, Darkfest and Rampage showcase the epitome of modern Freeride.

Freeride and all-mountain bikes are built tough, with 160-180mm of travel, burly components, and versatile geometry that can handle everything from massive drops to technical climbs. These bikes are designed to be as capable on the way up as they are on the way down, but make no mistake—gravity is their true calling. They’re perfect for the rider who wants to send it big, whether they’re hitting a sketchy gap or charging down a steep chute.

Clothing for Freeride is as bold as the riding itself: full-face helmets for when the hits are hard, paired with jerseys and shorts that offer both protection and freedom of movement. You’ll often see knee and elbow pads, and maybe even a back protector, because these riders aren’t just playing—they’re pushing the limits of what’s possible on a mountain bike. Freeride is all about big moves, big risks, and the biggest rewards when you stick the landing. 

The most imaginative riders are poetic to watch, just have a look at Brandon Semenuk.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Trek Slash 9.9 / Santa Cruz Nomad X01
Mid: Giant Reign 29 2 / Canyon Torque 6
Budget: Marin San Quentin 2 / Nukeproof Mega Alloy

Trials - Trials riders look at obstacles the way others look at speed bumps—something to hop over, balance on, or make ridiculously hard just for fun. If you’ve ever wondered who could bunnyhop a bike up a flight of stairs or balance on a rail like a cat on caffeine, look no further. Trials riders see the world as one big obstacle course, and they’re here to make it look both impossible and easy at the same time. Trials riding is less about speed and more about finesse, skill, and creativity.

Trials bikes are uniquely designed for this demanding discipline: small, lightweight, and equipped with no suspension. With short wheelbases, strong brakes, and low gearing, these bikes are built for climbing, balancing, and hopping with ease. They’re excellent for mastering technical skills, but don’t expect them to handle rough trails or high-speed descents.

Gear for Trials riding reflects the need for precision and protection: durable, lightweight clothing that allows for maximum freedom of movement, with plenty of protection in the form of knee and elbow pads, and often shin guards. Helmets are usually open-face, since the emphasis is on low-speed technical maneuvers rather than high-speed crashes. Trials riders are the embodiment of balance and control.

Few riders embody what trials riding is all about like Danny MacAskill and Chris Akrigg and their very different creative styles.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Inspired Fourplay / Canyon Stitched CFR Trial
Mid: Jitsie Varial / Onza Zoot
Budget: Ozonys Curve / Koxx Sky

Adaptive mountain bikes (AMTB’s) are designed for riders with disabilities who are determined to conquer trails and explore the outdoors. If you’ve ever wondered how someone could tackle rugged terrain or navigate tricky trails with a bike built for their specific needs, adaptive bikes are your answer. These bikes transform the way people experience mountain biking, making it accessible and exciting for all.

Adaptive mountain bikes come in various configurations, including handcycles, trikes, and bikes with custom modifications to fit individual needs. They’re built with robust frames and specialized components to handle rough terrain while accommodating different abilities. With features like custom seating, powerful brakes, and enhanced stability, these bikes are engineered to provide a thrilling and inclusive riding experience. Modern adaptive MTB’s are almost all assisted by eBike power trains.

Gear for adaptive mountain biking often includes specialized protective equipment tailored to individual needs, as well as adjustments for comfort and safety. Riders might use helmets, gloves, and padding designed to enhance their riding experience.

Pioneers in adaptive mountain bikes, showcase the incredible possibilities and inspiring achievements for athletes within this sport.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Bowhead RX / Outrider USA / Reactive Bomber
Mid: Lashersport ATH / Sport-on hand cycles

Gravel - (Strictly not a mountain bike category, but we’ll let it slide) - The Gravel rider is the adventurer who heard the call of the wild and decided to answer it at a moderate pace. Riding what is essentially a road bike in disguise—with drop handlebars and beefed-up mountain bike-style tires—they’re all about exploring those dirt roads to nowhere, one scenic mile at a time. If the idea of a “micro adventure” on gravel roads and fire breaks gets you excited, you might just be a gravel biker. And if you’re just realizing this now—welcome to the club!

In all seriousness, gravel bikes are a blast, especially when you’re off the beaten path. They’re perfect for those who like to mix it up: good for gravel roads, fire breaks, and even some light trail action, while still being able to double as a road bike. It’s basically a two-for-one deal, with a side of adventure.

When it comes to gear, gravel riders keep it practical yet stylish: breathable, moisture-wicking jerseys and bib shorts for those long rides, lightweight gloves, and versatile shoes that can handle anything from smooth tarmac to loose gravel. And because the weather can change on a dime, you’ll often see them sporting arm warmers and wind vests (gilets) to stay comfortable no matter where the road—or lack thereof—takes them.

Bikes in this category:
Top: Santa Cruz Stigmata / Wilier Jena
Mid: Cube Nuroad / Cannondale Topstone Alloy
Budget: Avalanche Dust Gravel / Rook 130

*Side note: you get eBikes in each of these categories. Not listed as separate category.

Gadget of the week:

With bike related crime getting out of hand in South Africa, the gadget of the week has to be the Ryder Innovation Tag mount. This GPS mount for your bar has a hidden compartment for your Apple Airtag. Should you get separated from your bike, this gives you a way to track it.

Q. What’s the most important regular maintenance to do on my MTB?
A. Clean it, lube it.

Start with a good clean. Use bicycle soap and moderate water pressure when washing it, not a pressure sprayer. Also clean and dry the chain.
Lube your chain. Wipe your shock and fork stanchions with a soft cloth and blow away dirt from the seals. Give it a quick once-over, looking for damage, wear or irregularities.
If you don’t have time to wash it, just wipe all dust off your stanchions with a soft cloth and clean your chain with a de-greasing wet-wipe, and re-apply lube.
Do a bolt check afterwards and feel bearings for smooth operation.

About the author:

Hello, I’m Francoin, an Industrial Designer in the cycling industry based in Somerset West, South Africa.

Tools, lights, accessories and bicycle design is my daily graft.

This newsletter is to share some of the experience & industry insight that I pick up along the way, with fellow cyclists. If you are new to the sport, or been riding for many years, I plan to give you something of interest in every edition.

Thanks for subscribing and Happy trails!

FV

Connect on Linkedin, and share with your riding buddies.
Also let us know if you have any specific topics that you would like covered here for your coffee time reading.