How to Convert Cross-Country Full Suspension Mountain Bikes
There is nothing like racing down a hill on a mountain bike. Not only is it challenging but also it is also exhilarating and exciting. If all you have is a cross county bike with full suspension, you can turn the bike into a mountain bike so you can join in the excitement.
Materials Needed
- Adjustable wrenches
- Allen wrenches
- Chain tool
- Chain whip
- Lockring tool
- Take off all of the accessories on the bike. This includes any bottle holders, lights, reflectors and end bars.
- Unscrew the post that attaches to the seat. Push the seat post down until it stops. Screw it back into place. Make sure the seat does not block the suspension.
- Remove the existing saddle and put on a saddle that is narrow. It should be strong and have extra padding for comfort while riding downhill.
- Make sure the pedals on the bike are replaced with the same type of pedals found on a BMX bike. You can also opt to use pedals that are a platform and clipless blend.
- Locate the crank arm on the right. Take the small chain and middle chain off of the crank arm. Place the big ring in the middle.
- Place a chain guide on the crank arm. The chain should be the type that is used for downhill riding. The chain guide should be place on the crank arm after removing the derailleur and shift from the front of the bike.
- Raise the handlebar. This can be done by taking off the flat bar and putting on a rise handlebar. You can also replace the existing stem with a taller stem.
- Put on a travel suspension fork that is much longer than the short fork on the cross country bike. Replace the tires with wide tires, which will allow for better riding downhill. The wheels should be downhill wheels, which are wide and strong.