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Stock
bikes are simply a regular mountain bike that has been set
up with a variety of parts that more specific to the sport
of observed trials.
Typically, a stock bike has a rigid fork, smaller frame,
26" wheels with wider rims and tires, a bashring to
protect the front chainrings, good brakes, and flat pedals.
Stock bikes can vary widely in their level of "dedicated-ness"
to trials. It is perfectly acceptable to start learning
on a normal mountain bike, just lower your seat and make
sure you have flat pedals.
As the rider skill level goes up, it is often advantageous
to modify the bike to meet the demands of more advanced
moves and obstacles. The bikes shown above would be considered
a trials-only bike. Both have a frame that is quite small, allowing for
more maneuverability and lighter weight. The Echo model above does not even have a standard seat tube, which gives even more room for body maneuverability. There is a rigid
fork, which gives the rider more control. The rims are downhill
style, with aggresive, wide tires. The drivetrain has been
reduced to just one ring in front, with a road cogset in
the rear and a short cage derailleur. Brakes are hydraulic
Magura HS-33, which provide plenty of stopping power.
Prices on stock bikes can range from your typical Huffy
with a few parts swapped out, to the off-the-hook
models shown here. It's all up to you and your level of dedication
(and your wallet).
Trials-Online sponsor MidwestBikeTrials.com sells a variety of excellent trials-specific
frames, most of which have quite a reasonable price. Check them out for the latest information.
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