How do I measure a Bottom Bracket?
Bottom Brackets are designated by 2 pieces of information. Bottom bracket shell width and spindle length. The bottom bracket shell is the part of the frame into which the BB threads in. All bottom bracket shell sizes are 68mm, 70mm, or 73mm. Measuring the shell is very easy it can be determined quite simply by turning your bike upside down and measuring the width of the frame material that the bottom bracket resides in. To find the spindle length first remove the crank arms. Then measure the length of the spindle in millimeters from end to end. If your crankset is attached with nuts as opposed to bolts, do not measure the extended threaded portions of the spindle.

If you are replacing a B.B and are using your old crank, you'll want a replacement B.B with the same spindle length. If you are installing a new crank, you will want to use the spindle length recommended by the crank manufacturer.

Different styles of bottom brackets.

I.S.I.S
The i.s.i.s International standard is used on bottom brackets from Race Face, Tru Vativ and others. Isis uses a splined system similar to (but not compatible) with Shimano. Isis cranks and bottom brackets are available from a variety of manufacturers, including Race Face and Tru Vativ.

Square taper.
Conventional square taper bottom brackets are becoming less common on both mountain and road bikes. This style of B.B is identified by the square mounting hole in the cranks and square shape in bottom bracket spindle.

HollowTech I
The Shimano HollowTech I line of bottom brackets are splined so you will have to use a Shimano splined crankset. The Shimano XTR cranksets are only compatible with Shimano XTR bottom brackets. LX and XT bottom brackets are only compatible with LX or XT cranksets.

HollowTech II / X-Type / MegaExo
This is the newest bottom bracket technology. These types of bottom brackets are used with a two piece crankset. The drive side crank arm and spindle are constructed into one piece and the non-drive side simply clamps on to the spindle. Not only does this create better torque it also allows for the crankset to be lighter as a whole. These outboard bearing systems are considerably strong and lightweight.

Choosing the right v brakes for your mountain bike
The most common type of brakes are still V-brakes These brakes are typically cable operated and work by squeezing brake pads to the rim. In order to use V-brakes, you need to have the appropriate v-brake post braze-ons on your frame and fork. Most bikes are equipped with V-brakes and braze-ons as they come from the factory, and can be easily upgraded to different V-brakes if you desire. Any type of hub can be used on a bike with V-brakes. Since all V-brakes are pulled with standard brake cables, any V-brake compatible brake lever can typically be used.

Disc Brakes
Disc brakes are gaining in popularity. This style of brakes works by squeezing brake pads against a rotor mounted on the bike's hub. Because disc brakes offer more powerful braking, they are typically used on more aggressive bikes, such as those used for downhilling and freeriding. Some systems are actuated by a steel cable, while others use hydraulic fluid.

In order to use disc brakes, your frame or fork must have appropriate mounting holes on your frame, and fork. You'll need a set of discs which are compatible with your frame's mounting holes. Additionally, your hubs must be disc brake compatible so that the rotor can be mounted. Disc brakes are typically sold as a set which includes the calipers, rotor, and brake lever. Please ask our tech support for any additional questions.

When I order a Cassette what Gear range is right for me?
When ordering a cassette the numbers you see relate to the number of teeth on the small and largest cogs. A smaller first number will give you more top end speed, while a larger second number will give you an easier gear for climbing. A closer ratio between cassettes will also have smoother shifting. Racers like to have closer ratio so that they can have smooth acceleration and may not have to do really hard climbing.
Newer riders will want to choose a cassette that has a comfortable upper range. Racers choose one of the cassettes with a smaller cog, and a narrower range. If you have any questions about choosing the correct Cassette please call our technical support department at 800-585-4137.

How to measure your chain rings?
Chainrings are usually stamped with sizes (58/94) 5-arm compact, (74/110) 5-arm standard or (64/104) 4-arm. To select one, you'll need to know three things. The number of mounting bolts 4,or 5 arm. Second the number of teeth on the chainring, and last the Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD). You can count each individual teeth on your chainrings to obtain the correct sizing. The bolt circle diameter is equal to the diameter of an imaginary circle drawn through the center of the bolts which secure the chainring to the cranks, measured in millimeters. Regardless of whether the crank has 4 arms or 5 arms, the BCD is measured the same way. There are three different sets of Bcd's are common on mountain bikes. First a 58mm (inner) and 94mm (middle, outer). Second is 74mm (inner) and 110mm (middle,outer) set up. Third is a 64mm (inner) and 104 (middle, outer) configuration. If you have any questions about choosing the correct chainrings, Please call our Technical Support Department at 800-585-4137.

Are 9 speed chainrings compatible with a 8 speed set up.?
No, using the incorrect ring type can bring many problems for example: over- shifts unsuccessful shifts- skipping and chain suck. Always use the appropriate chain and chainring combination for flawless shifting.

Cycling Specific Clothing.
Cycling- specific clothing is made with advanced synthetic materials that have a wiking attribute. This means the fabric pulls moisture away from your skin and disperses it throughout the material where it can evaporate easily, keeping your cool and dry. On longer rides cycling apparel will be more comfortable and will maintain your body temperature more effective than with your normal standard wear. Cycling shorts also have a "chamois" or a pad built into the crotch to provide added comfort while riding. Baggy/Freeride shorts often have a built in inner short with chamois.

What fabric is used in cycling-clothing.
Most riding gear is made from advanced synthetic materials. These are often polyesters design for a specific purpose. Coolmax for example moves moisture quickly away from the skin to the outer layer of the fabric. It then dries that moisture faster than any other fabric on the market today. Other fabrics used are drylete, and fieldsensor. These two advanced lycra polyesters are often used in the production of shorts and tights. This material is known for the advantages of being stretchable, durable fade-resistant, and easy to care for. Cycling apparel made from these advanced materials will be more comfortable for long rides than your usual standard wear, and they will last longer than your inexpensive cotton basics.

How do I measure my crank arm length?
Crank arm length is measured in millimeters from the center of the crank bolt to the center of the pedal spindle (where the pedal attaches to the crank arm). The most common sizes for crank arms are 165mm, 170mm, 172.5mm, 175mm and 180mm. Crank arm length is generally a function of two characteristics; leg and riding style.

What I need to know when shopping for a new crankset?
First make sure your crankset will be compatible with all your other parts. Secondly make sure the bottom bracket spindle will be compatible with your new crankset. The spindle required is dependant upon the crankset and bike frame selected. It is imperative that the spindle length is correct for optimum chain line.

Standard Vs Compact
These two terms refer to the bolt circle diameter of your chain rings. You can also use chain ring bolt patterns to measure your cranks. Measure directly across the ring from bold hole center to bolt hole center (unless you have 4 bolt cranks, you wont have a bolt hole there to measure, so imagine one). The old standard is 110mm for the large and middle ring, with 74mm for the small (granny) ring. Compact size is 94mm/58mm respectively. Conversly, you can also measure between two adjacent bolts on your chain ring. Compact will measure 55mm and standard will measure 65mm . Note; If your bike is newer than 1994, you are almost 99% certain of having compact drive. If you are not sure, take a ruler and measure from one bolt to the next adjacent bolt. When buying replacement chainrings, cranks, or front derailluers, you must stay with the same format.

What size are the cranks you sell?
Unless it is stated otherwise, all the cranksets we sell for mountain bikes are 175mm long.

Road cranks are available in a variety of lengths (170mm, 172.5mm, and 175mm).

Front Derailleurs
Conversion chart
1 1/8" = 28.6mm 1 1/4" = 31.8mm 1 3/8" = 34.9mm
If you are unsure what size you need, look at your front derailleur. Some where on the clamp, the diameter will be stamped in millimeters. You may have to remove the derailluer as the size may be stamped on the inside of the clamp. You will also need to know what pull direction your derailleur is. This refers to whether the shifter cable pulls the derailleur from the top or the bottom, and are called top pull and bottom pull logically enough.

Is my derailleur Top-Pull or Bottom-Pull?
If the cable approaches the derailleur from above, it is top pull. If the cable comes up from underneath the bottom bracket, it is bottom pull.

Is my derailleur Top-Swing or Bottom-Swing?
If the clamp for the derailleur is below the pivot (the part that moves to guide the chain to a different gear), it is considered top swing. If the clamp for the derailleur is above the pivot, it is bottom swing.

What does "E-type" mean?
"E-type" refers to a front derailleur that mounts to the bottom bracket of your bike instead of clamping onto your seat tube. This is mainly used on full suspension bikes that have an interrupted seat tube.

Rear Derailleurs

How does cage length affect shifting?
Shorter cage rear derailleurs take up less chain slack than a long cage rear derailleur. The chain is held more snugly, which can result in smoother, more precise shifting. However, longer cage rear derailleurs are capable of taking up more chain slack than a short cage rear derailleur, allowing you to run a wider range drivetrain than would be possible with a short cage rear derailleur.
On a mountain bike, your choice is slightly more difficult. Less experienced riders, or riders who ride frequently in steep terrain should probably stick to a long cage rear derailleur. This, combined with proper chain length, will allow the bike to be safely shifted into every gear on the bike. Racers might appreciate the lighter weight and slight shifting improvement a short cage rear derailleur offers. However, these benefits come with a tradeoff - because of the decreased capacity a short or medium cage rear derailleur offers, it may not be possible to safely use the small chainring in tandem with the smallest cogs. (The derailleur simply can't take up enough slack in the chain)
For mountain bikes, when in doubt, choose a long cage rear derailleur, unless you are certain you understand the limitations of a short/medium cage derailleur.

SRAM ESP series derailleurs
The SRAM ESP line of components uses a different cable pull ratio than Shimano components. If you have a SRAM ESP series rear derailleur, you'll need to choose matching SRAM ESP shifters.

Can I use a 9-speed derailleur with an 8-speed cassette?
Absolutely. As long as it can handle the spread on the cassette, you'll be fine. All reasonably modern derailleurs will handle this. The derailleur is a "dumb" component - it does what the shifter tells it to do.

Do I need a 1" or 1 1/8" fork?
You can measure the diameter of the steerer tube of your current fork, which comes down out of your frame where your fork blades meet above the wheel. This is the part that runs up into your head tube. Most mountain bikes require 1 1/8". To be sure, simply measure the diameter of the tube, the distance from one side of the outside wall of the tube to the other. If you are unsure you can always call our sales department.

Do I need threaded or Threadless?
In a threadless system the fork's steerer tube will slide through the headtube of your bike and the stem will clamp on to the portion of the steerer tube that rises above the headset. In all threaded systems the fork's steerer tube goes into the headtube but does not pass through the top of your headset. In this system the stem (somewhat "L" shaped) inserts directly into the headset and fork's steerer tube.
Most new bikes are already threadless, so the only concern you have is the diameter of the steer tube (1" , 1 1/8", 1 1/4", 1 1/2"- inch). You can measure this by loosening and removing your stem from the fork , and measuring the outer diameter of the steerer directly. Threadless forks need to use a threadless headset, and stem. Threaded forks use a threaded headset and stem with a quill.

Do you sell threaded forks?
No, all our forks are threadless. You can easily convert your bike to threadless by installing a new headset and stem.

Consider frame geometry before purchasing a fork, Unless your frame was designed specifically for a long travel fork, adding a shock with a large amount of travel will dramatically change the handling and geometry of your bike. Consider a fork with less travel.
Similarly, if you already have a frame with a long travel rear suspension setup, you'll want to choose a suitable long travel front fork to complement the rear suspension.
Please contact our Technical Support Department for any additional questions at 800-585-4137.

Hold your palm out flat and use a tape measure around your hand at it's fullest point, not including your thumb. Use the following chart to convert to standard glove sizing.

The world of handlebars is getting more and more complex. As far as MTB handlebars go, there are 2 basic clamp sizes - 25.4 and 31.8. 25.4 is the most common size. It has been in use for quite some time. The new oversized bars (31.8) is a trend that is gaining popularity. If you have a 25.4 handlebar, you need a 25.4 stem. This is also true with the 31.8 The oversized stems should prove to be stronger and stiffer than their smaller sized bretheren.

Types of handlebars
There are 2 basic handlebars used for off road riding. There are flat bars and riser bars. Flat bars are exactly that, flat. They often have a slight rearward sweep to them, usually 3-5 degrees. Flat bars lower the rider's position. For XC use, flat bars create a more aggressive, hunched over position and weight is more evenly distributed across the bike. Flat bars are typically lighter weight because they don't need to be reinforced at the bending points like a riser bar does. Most flat bars are 22.5-25" wide.

Riser bars usually have a rise of 1"-2.5" a slight upward sweep of 3-5 degrees, and a rearward sweep back towards the ride of 4-9 degrees. Riser bars elevate the hand position of the rider. This causes the rider to sit up more, putting more weight on the rear wheel. Riser bars are usually wider than flat bars, typically 25-27" wide. Many people choose to use riser bars because the width gives them more leverage. Single speeders love the extra torque they get from using a wider bar. They also give you more stability. They are also heavier, because they need to have extra material to reinforce the areas that bend.

Headset sizing
There are 3 common headset sizes - 1", 1-1/8", and 1-1/4". Well, to be honest, 1-1/8" is the real common size. 1" headsets are still found on a few road bikes, but are rarely found on new bikes. The larger size, 1-1/4", was very often found on Tandems, but are almost obsolete. The size refers to the diameter of the steerer tube. There is a new trend, called one point five (1.5"), which is really big. Some companies are using this new size for really beefy Freeride and DH bikes.

Is my headset threaded or threadless?
You can determine this by looking at the stem. If your stem is threadless so is your headset. You can tell if your headset is threadless by looking at the stem. If your stem clamps directly onto your fork's steerer tube it is threadless (there are usually two bolts on the back of the stem). If your stem slides directly down into the frame you have a threaded stem, and headset (the only bolt you see is on top of the stem).

What are headsets typically made of ?
Headsets are typically made out of either steel or aluminum. Aluminum is a lighter material, and is typically found on higher end headsets..
Headset bearings differ in quality, as well as design. Less expensive headsets usually come with plain ball bearings in a bearing retainer. They can be easily repacked and replaced. Some people prefer the service ability of loose bearings, but nowadays, more and more companies are coming out with sealed cartridge bearing headsets. Cartridge bearings are simple, and don't need the attention that loose bearings do. Most headsets over $40 will have cartridge bearings.
A lot of people ask what 'stack height' means. The stack height of a headset is the amount of space that it takes up. If you add the stack height to the head tube length and the stem height, (and any desired spacers), and subtract 2-3mm, you get the necessary steerer tube length.

Please contact our Technical Support Department for any additional questions at 800-585-4137.

What is my helmet/glove size?
You can use a measuring tape to determine your helmet size. Measure your head just above your eyebrows, and convert the measurement into the manufactures sizing chart. Please contact us if you need any assistance.

Helmet Sizes

TO FIGURE HELMET SIZE NEEDED Take a tape measure with inches and measure around head just above your eyebrow ridges. Refer to helmet item for sizes based on measurements

S/M M M/L L L/XL

Giro 56-60cm - - - 60-64cm Bell 53-57cm 55-59cm 56-60cm 59-63cm - 661 - 55-58cm - 58-60cm 60-62cm

If you have any questions choosing the correct Helmet size please contact our customer service department at 800-585-4137.

Do cleats come with pedals or shoes?
Cleats will come with the pedals and not the shoes. All clipless pedals will include the cleats, and all hardware.

Types of Pedals
Your primary choice in pedals is platform vs clipless. Mtb riders, racers and cross-country mountain bike riders will probably prefer a clipless system. In a clipless system, a cleat is mounted to the bottom of the shoe it snaps into the pedal providing a firm and secure attachment similar to a ski binding. The rider can release from the system by twisting their foot to the side.
Downhill, Freeride, and other aggressive mountain bikers prefer a platform pedal system, which provides a flat grippy surface without binding mechanism. This style of pedal is also ideal for your casual " around the town" riders who don't want to bother with special shoes.

What is Spd ?
It stands for: SHIMANO PEDAL DYNAMICS and it describes all of Shimano's current mountain bike pedals and the sole drilling that their cleat need.
Spd compatible shoes have 2 or 4 threaded holes in parallel slots(1or2holes/slot) under the ball of the foot. The slots are ¨ö" apart and run front to rear. Many different brands and shapes of cleat attach using this bolt pattern. For example speedplay frogs, crank bros eggbeaters, time atac and Shimano Spd's all require the Spd bolt pattern but none of their cleats interchange.

Pedal threads.
All modern mountain and road bikes take a 9/16" pedals. Many Bmx bikes need ¨ö" pedals which are not compatible.

How do I install my new pedals?
You can use a 15mm wrench for all pedals some of them also allow for a 8mm allen wrench to be used. Keep in mind that the left pedal is reverse threaded, so you screw it counter-clockwise to tighten, and clockwise to loosen.

What is the easiest way to disengage from my clipless pedals?
There is definitely a learning curve when you are adjusting to a new set of pedals especially if you have never used clipless before. Just turn your ankle slightly away from your bike and your cleat will click right out of the pedal. Take a few rides to get use too, and it will just become second nature. Keep your pedals clean for them to release easily, and consistently. Spray off your pedals with a hose to take all the muck out and keep the pins and springs lubed with some thicker oil to reduce wear and tear.

How can I select a comfortable saddle with so many to choices?
Choosing a saddle is a personal matter. There is no way to guarantee a successful mating of butt, and saddle. If there is a specific style, or profile that has been working in the past We would suggest sticking to a similar style. Remember, any new saddle will take time to break in, and the more miles you ride the more comfortable your saddle gets.

Titanium, or Chromoly rails?
Chromoly rails are often used in most saddles. Chromoly (Chrome Molybdenum) is a strong, durable and resist bending, and is not as expensive as Titanium rails. If you're looking to save a little more weight on your saddle use Titanium rails. Titanium rails often require special workmanship, so these saddles tend to be more expensive than their chromoly-railed counterparts.

How can I find my seatpost size?
Most seatpost manufactures will stamp the seatpost size near the maximum height line. If it's not stamped your local bicycle dealer or the manufacture of your frame can help you determine the proper size.

Suspension Seatpost
Suspension seatpost add comfort to the ride of a hardtail frame. It's a simple, and cost effective upgrade. If you're currently riding a hardtail, but not ready for a full suspension bike, a suspension seatpost will definitely bridge the gap. Ask our technical support about adding a suspension seatpost to your bike.

What is STI?
Shimano's STI (Shimano Total Integration) merges the shifters with the brake levers. Shifters are generally compatible with matching derailleurs. Example; most 8 speed shifters are compatible with 8 speed drivetrians, and 9 speed shifters are compatible with 9 speed drive trains with very few exceptions.

Grip Shift
SRAM's Grip Shift is also very popular with the mountain bike set; it integrates the shifter with the grip, so shifting is accomplished by twisting a section of the grip itself, much like the throttle on a motorcycle.

Shifter Compatibility
For mountain bikes, the only notable components which are NOT interchangeable are the SRAM ESP series of shifters and derailleurs. SRAM's ESP shifter pulls a different amount of cable than Shimano shifters, thus, the two are incompatible. If you are using a SRAM ESP shifter, you'll need to choose a matching ESP rear derailleur. (Please note that SRAM non-ESP shifters ARE compatible with Shimano derailleurs.)

Please contact our Technical Support Department for any additional questions at 800-585-4137.

How do I measure the length or extension of my stem?
The Most important size you need is the clamp diameter. There are usually four sizes that are used while purchasing a stem. These are all the four different sizes. 1", 1 1/8", 1 1/4" or 1 ¨ö". By far, the most common size is 1 1/8", used on almost all mountain bikes and many road bikes. Some road bikes use 1". Finally, 1 1/4" is used by a few rare mountain bikes. Stems also come in various lengths so you can achieve a more precise fit on your bike.
Another size that will come across will be the rise of the stem, and length this depends on what is comfortable for you. Stems come in different lengths so that you can get a more comfortable fit on your bike. If your upper body and arms are long or you like to be stretched out a bit, you might like a longer stem. Stems also have varying degrees of rise so you can really dial-in your riding position. Freeriders/DH, would prefer going with a shorter stem to have more control while descending, and cross country riders would prefer a longer stem for the steep climbs, but remember what is comfortable for you. Also some people with chronic back or neck injuries prefer stems with a higher rise, so that they sit more upright on the bike. Many riders like stems with zero degrees of rise, or even a negative rise, so they can ride in a more aerodynamic position as well.

Purchasing the correct stem.
Choosing a stem depends on what is comfortable for you. There are two different styles of stems- threaded, and threadless style.
The older threaded style, the stem is inserted inside the fork's steer tube and secured with a wedge. Newer threadless your stem clamps directly onto your fork's steer tube there are usually two bolts on the back of the stem). Modern mountain and road frames are using the threadless set up.

What is my Shoe/Clothing size?
Too choose the correct size, you'll need to convert your American shoe size into a European measurement. Please see chart below to convert sizes.

What is SPD?
It stands for: SHIMANO PEDAL DYNAMICS and it describes all of Shimano's current mountain bike pedals and the shoe sole drilling that their cleats need.

Do cleats come with pedals or shoes?
Cleats will come with the pedals and not the shoes. All clipless pedals will include the cleats, and all hardware.

Maintenance

Are my new wheels ready to ride?
Yes. You will have to install a rim strip to cover up the spoke holes and then put your tires and tubes on, but then they are ready to go. Wheelsets do need to be checked regularly during the first few months of riding to make sure that the spoke tension is maintained as the wheels break in. True your wheels yourself or take them to a certified mechanic to have them trued if you notice any loose spokes or they are not spinning perfectly straight. All our wheels come pre-built & trued. Further truing maybe required AND IS EXPECTED after ridding and is your responsibility. Bent or broken spokes or rims are not warranted, nor is inappropriate use.

What is the best set of wheels for me?
There really isn't any set of wheels that is correct for everybody. You should consider what kind of riding you do and what factors are most important to you. If you do mostly cross-country riding and you want light-weight, nimble wheels, you may sacrifice some strength. If you are downhilling or freeriding and want something that is more durable, you should go with something a bit heavier, with very durable rims and wider tires. Either way, it is most important to maintain your wheels and make sure that you have them trued as soon as any spokes loosen up.

What is the difference in construction of various wheelsets?
Traditional wheelsets are laced together with 32 or 36 spokes. A 36-spoke set-up will tend to be stronger and more durable, but will also be heavier. There are many lightweight wheelsets now available that have alternate spoke designs, fewer spokes, or even one-piece carbon fiber construction. The correct choice depends on the kind of riding you do and how often you will use the wheels - for example, are they for everyday training or just for racing?

Please contact our Technical Support Department for any additional questions at 800-585-4137.