Mtb and trekking: all the differences

When it comes to choosing a bike there is always a lot of confusion and, very often, mtb and trekking are the alternatives.

But what is the difference between mtb and trekking? Many people think they are the same thing, but the truth is they are very different disciplines (and bikes).

Today we will clarify it once and for all, so as to eliminate any doubt for those who want to buy a bike and do not know which one to choose.

Trekking bikes

Trekking bikes just are touring bicycles, those used for cycling and riding for kilometers, especially on the asphalt. This is a very general term, to indicate a rather versatile type of bike, which also can suit dirt roads, although it is not designed for this use.

Some people, instead of trekking bikes, prefer to call it a hybrid bike or a hybrid trek bike, but the substance does not change. In any case, they are bikes that guarantee comfort and convenience and that have versatility as their main strength.

We can say that trekking bikes are a compromise between racing bikes and mountain bikes and they have features of each of these two types of bike.

Perfect for leisure and cycling tourism, they are often also called touring bikes and in most cases can be equipped with bags for bikes of any shape or size. This makes them suitable for those who cycle for many kilometers, for example for a randonnée.

Depending on how you use it, you can customize your bike and add, for example, mudguards, luggage racks, or a bike cyclocomputer for bike to keep track of your performance. If you love cycling even in the evening or before dusk, you cannot miss the dynamo bike lights, so you can see the road well and ensure your safety.

Trekking bikes' features

Trekking bikes are equipped with tires with tread pattern to get more traction even on the dirt road, and an excellent suspension, which absorb the roughness of the ground to provide you with the ideal comfort.

The geometry of this kind of bike allow you to hold a raised position, to clearly see what is around you. The tires are quite large, with a large diameter and high pressure. The Lombardo trekking bike you see in the photo, for example, has 28" wheels. These features make them last longer and deliver you more stability. Rims and spokes will be light, because they are not designed for hard grounds.

The frame can be made of steel or lightweight aluminum, sturdy materials that last a long time and are relatively inexpensive. The handlebar is generally flat as the one of a mountain bike.

The characteristics of the relationships also enhance the versatility of this bike. The ratios range from 16 to 27 and allow you to tackle both the most challenging climbs and the flat routes.

The pedals mounted on the trekking bikes are platform pedals, so that the cyclist can get on and off without difficulty. Those who prefer a more powerful pedaling, can also mount pedals with coupling.

Mountain bikes' features

To understand the difference between mtb and trekking, let us analyze the mountain bikes, bikes for dirt roads with a harder soul, able to venture even in the most rugged and challenging mountain routes.

If we should define this type of bike in 3 words, we could say that it is sturdy, handy and agile. Originally, the wheels were 26 inches, but the 27.5" or even 29" models are increasingly popular. The larger diameter compared to road bikes makes them more suitable for gravel than asphalt, because the greater friction inevitably reduces speed.

Although trekking bikes are the most suitable for cycling, there are many cyclists who use mountain bikes for this purpose. In these cases, some precautions must be taken, because if the front fork is cushioned, the only viable solution is the rear luggage rack.

The main difference between mtb and trekking is the frame, which is heavier and sturdier. It is the feature of the frame that determine the performance and comfort of the bike and it is undoubtedly also the part of the bike that most affects the price.

The MTB geometry is compact and less elongated. The pedal power is discharged to the rear wheel and the frame is able to absorb the shocks that characterize off-road riding.

One of the factors to be taken into consideration when choosing the frame is therefore the right balance between elasticity and stiffness, but weight is also important. The weight is mainly determined by the material used, which can be aluminium, steel, carbon or titanium. Depending on the material, the price will also significantly change.

The main types of mountain bike

The types of mtb are different and if you want to choose the one that best suits your needs, you must be clear about the use you want to make of the bike. Here is a quick overview of the main types of mountain bike:

• Rigid mountain bikes: Among the mountain bikes, they are the most suitable for cycling, because they offer an excellent stability and ease of driving, especially when traveling with luggage. The price is rather cheap, as in the case of the Lombardo mountain bike that you see in the photo.
• Hardtail or Front suspended. Its special feature is the cushioned front fork, which guarantees an excellent performance on dirt roads that are not too difficult. They can be driven with a certain ease.
• Softail or Full suspended or Biammortized. They are able to absorb even the most severe shocks thanks to the presence of front and rear suspensions. The double cushioning makes the bike quite heavy and those who want to have optimal performance, must focus on more technological and expensive materials.

Difference between mtb and trekking: which bike to choose?

Now you know the difference between mtb and trekking, so you should have a clearer idea about the choice you need to make. Are you a cycling enthusiast and do you plan to mainly ride on asphalt and less on dirt roads? Then the trekking or hybrid bike is the right one for you.

If, on the other hand, you love to venture on the dirt road and go wild on the mountain routes, your choice must be a mountain bike, paying attention to really choose the type that suits your needs best.

Do you still have doubts about the difference between mtb and trekking? Write it down in the comments and I will be happy to explain everything to you in detail.