Can I use a mountain bike with a high bottom bracket for technical riding?

[gymbob]

Can the cycling community finally acknowledge that the conventional wisdom surrounding mountain bike design and technical riding is completely outdated? Specifically, why is it still widely accepted that a high bottom bracket on a mountain bike is a hindrance for technical riding? Every time this topic is brought up, the same tired arguments are trotted out - that a high bottom bracket makes the bike more prone to pedal strikes, that it compromises the bikes stability, and that its only suitable for smooth, flowing trails. But what about the benefits of a high bottom bracket? What about the increased ground clearance, the improved ability to navigate technical terrain, and the reduced likelihood of the bike getting hung up on obstacles?

Are these benefits not worth the supposed drawbacks? And whats with the obsession with low bottom brackets, anyway? Is it just a case of following the crowd, or is there actually some substance behind the argument? It seems to me that the cycling community is stuck in a rut, and that a high bottom bracket is unfairly maligned. So, Id love to hear from all the armchair experts out there - whats the real reason were still clinging to the idea that a high bottom bracket is a bad thing for technical riding? Is it just a case of tradition, or is there something more to it?

 

[Colnago C40]

High bottom brackets on mountain bikes still get a bad rap, but let's consider the advantages: greater ground clearance, better navigation on technical terrain, and fewer hang-ups on obstacles. Yes, pedal strikes and stability can be concerns, but are they deal-breakers?

The infatuation with low bottom brackets might be more about following the crowd than performance benefits. Perhaps it's time to question the status quo and explore the potential benefits of high bottom brackets in technical riding. Food for thought .

 

[kuss]

The benefits of a high bottom bracket are clear. It increases ground clearance, reducing the likelihood of pedal strikes on technical terrain. This means more control and confidence when navigating obstacles. Sure, it may take some getting used to, but the advantages far outweigh the initial discomfort.

As for stability, a high bottom bracket can actually enhance it. With a higher center of gravity, the bike becomes more maneuverable, allowing for quicker, more precise movements. And as for smooth, flowing trails, a high bottom bracket is still beneficial. It allows for a more efficient pedal stroke, resulting in increased speed and power.

It's time to challenge the conventional wisdom and embrace the benefits of a high bottom bracket. Don't be afraid to try something new and push the boundaries of mountain bike design.

 

[123smt]

A high bottom bracket on a mountain bike has its merits, often overlooked in favor of traditional thinking. Yes, there's increased ground clearance and better navigation on technical terrain, reducing the likelihood of the bike getting hung up. However, it's crucial to consider the rider's style and the trails they frequent.

For instance, downhill riders might benefit from a lower bottom bracket for stability, while cross-country riders could appreciate the advantages of a higher one. It's not one-size-fits-all. The cycling community should embrace a more nuanced view, considering various riding styles and trail conditions before dismissing a high bottom bracket as a hindrance.

 

[mgw189]

"Outdated conventional wisdom"? That's a pretty bold claim. Where's the data to support the idea that high bottom brackets are being unfairly maligned? I've yet to see any concrete evidence that debunks the concerns about pedal strikes and stability. And what about the "benefits" of a high bottom bracket? Are we talking about increased ground clearance or just a bunch of theoretical advantages that don't translate to real-world riding?

 

[spacelord]

A high bottom bracket does offer advantages, such as greater ground clearance and navigability on technical terrain. However, the reluctance to embrace this design may not be solely based on tradition. A lower center of gravity can enhance stability, particularly on steep descents and in corners. It's also worth considering that pedal strikes may not be as frequent a concern as often suggested, especially with modern mountain bike geometry. So, instead of dismissing the benefits of a low bottom bracket, perhaps it's time to explore the potential merits of both designs and find the right balance for different riding styles and terrains.