By Janice Lynn Mather With so many options available, mountain biking gear can be tricky to figure out. Here are a few pointers to help you get from the shopping stage and into the open with the bike that’s best suited for you.

Selecting a bike is most expensive part of mountain biking gear. Make your bike choice based on what terrain — and tricks — are most enticing. An all-mountain bike is a good, basic choice; it will perform well, handle distance, and is good on general rugged surfaces. Cross country bikes are also popular, as they provide speed as well as performance. More specialized options include downhill bikes, which are the heaviest makes. They’re great for mountain bike parks, obstacles, and the tough environment of downhill trails. A freeride bike, on the other hand, is good for both downhill and uphill biking, and will let you perform stunts to boot. You also will have a few suspension options to choose from. Front suspension — sometimes called hard tail — will offer you a bit more comfort on rougher terrains; dual suspension models are even more comfortable. A dual suspension bike also will lessen your impact. Simpler mountain bike models offer neither of these, which is fine for basic riding. The more adventurous your mountain biking escapades, the more serious your bike helmet should be. For milder versions, a standard, but strong bike helmet will do. Full face helmets are necessary when you begin to attempt stunts and tricks. Unlike gentler forms of biking, you’ll want to invest in protective mountain biking gear. First off, you'll need a pair of gloves. Your hands can take a beating simply from gripping the handles, and you’ll be glad for the protection if — or when — you take a fall. You may also want to check out some body armor, which will protect you from any spills or tumbles you take. Mountain biking can be a costly pleasure; consider one of this year’s models manufactured by Specialized, which rings up at over $6,000. The good news? Many bikes are much more affordable while still doing the trick (or letting you do tricks). Even if you have your heart set on a top-of-the-line model, there are ways to get deals on bikes. To save money buying in-person from a store, get your bike off-season. This means you’ll head to the store in the fall or winter, when stores dip their prices. This is one of the easiest ways to find a great new bike for less. Another option is to buy an older model. This doesn’t mean you have to rummage in the back of a store for a dusty bike from 10 years ago; just choosing last year’s make will reduce the cost. And, chances are, things won’t have changed that much. If you are willing to sacrifice convenience for cost, you also can simply choose a bike that's made with cheaper materials. Aluminum mountain bikes are lighter but costlier; those with steel parts are harder to carry, but easier on the wallet. Of course, used bikes will also save dollars. Just be sure that the bike is in good quality, and not too beat up, or you’ll find yourself browsing the market again, before long. Try sources like mtbr.com to see reviews of bikes and accessories. There, you can also search trails by US states to find about biking spots in your own or new neighborhoods and see how other bikers rate them. If you’re in the market for a secondhand bike, the buy/sell section will also be of use. Mountainbike.com offers professional opinions about cutting-edge biking options, and reviews the latest models. Wherever and however you get your bike, test it out before purchasing. Regardless of preferred terrain, ideal materials, or suspension options, the most important thing is that your bike is comfortable and feels right to you.