Model year
The year to which the manufacturer classifies the bicycle (more precisely, the model range that includes this model).
The significance of this parameter is that the model range is updated every year, and two bicycles with the same name, but from different years, can differ significantly in characteristics and equipment. At the same time, new models (
2024,
2023) usually cost more, and older ones (
2022,
2021, etc.) are sold at reduced prices.
It is worth considering that a later year of manufacture in itself does not necessarily mean more advanced characteristics - manufacturers can change them in the direction of simplification. So
the model of previous years may be in no way inferior to the new bike.
Recommended height
The user's height recommended by the manufacturer is calculated according to several parameters. One is the wheel diameter, and the second and more important is the frame size. If everything is simple with the wheel size — it is round and always the same, then the frame size complicates the choice. Different types of bicycles have their own frame shape, so even the same size can be suitable for different heights. And this is not to mention the features of the manufacturer, who like to do everything for themselves, and not in a general manner. Therefore, the size of the frame of each bicycle has its own size and it is still better to choose a bicycle by personally “saddling” it. If this is not possible, then our point will tell you what height, according to the manufacturer, this configuration (frame + wheel) of the bike is designed for.
Fork travel
Front fork travel on bicycles with damped suspension (see "Suspension"). Roughly speaking, the travel of a fork is the maximum distance that its size can be reduced by compression during shock absorption. The longer the fork travel, the better the shock absorption and “soft” ride it provides, but not all bikes require a lot of travel. Even within the same type (see “Purpose”), depending on the specific application and riding style, the optimal fork travel will be different — for example,
freeride mountain bikes need good shock absorption, and for cross-country, on the contrary, a long fork travel will be redundant.
In general, if you do not plan on extreme cross-country riding or doing cycling tricks, this parameter is not critical. However, when choosing a bike for serious cycling, it is worth checking the recommended fork travel values (according to specialized literature or from professionals) and making sure that the desired model corresponds to them.
Tyre
Tyre model supplied with the bike as standard. Different tyres have different purposes and characteristics; knowing the tyre model, you can clarify these points and check how they correspond to your wishes. This is especially important when choosing a machine for serious cycling.
Front brake model
Model of the brake used on the front wheel of a bicycle.
Knowing a specific brand of brake system components, you can find technical documentation for it or, for example, study brake reviews on the Internet. For more information about the types of brakes on the front wheel, see "Front brake".
Front rotor
Front rotor.
The front disc brake rotor is a perforated metal plate attached to the wheel hub. The reduction in speed of the bike occurs as a result of the compression of the brake disc by the pads, which are driven by cable tension (in mechanical type systems) or by means of a hydraulic circuit (in hydraulic disc brakes). The diameter of the front rotor can vary from 140mm to 220mm. The higher the number, the more efficient the brake is.
Rear brake model
Model of the brake used on the rear wheel of a bicycle.
Knowing a specific brand of brake system components, you can find technical documentation for it or, for example, study brake reviews on the Internet. For more information about the types of brakes on the rear wheel, see "Rear brake".
Rear rotor
Rear rotor.
An element of a disc brake system mounted on the hub of the rear wheel of a bicycle. It is to him that the pads are pressed when the brake lever is pressed. The use of a rotor ensures high braking efficiency. And it is higher, the larger the diameter of the rear rotor. Disc rotors are available in sizes 140, 160, 180, 185, 203 and 220 mm.
Front hub model
The model of the hub used in the front wheel of a bicycle.
The hub is the central part in the wheel through which the axis of rotation passes. Features of the behavior of a bicycle depend on its characteristics, in particular, “rolling” (the ability to move by inertia, without pedaling). Knowing the model of the front hub, you can clarify its characteristics according to the manufacturer's documentation, find reviews from other users, etc., in order to determine how this model suits you.
