Why are mountain bikes so slow?
Factors that affect mountain bike speed as follow:
Step 1: TiresOne of the biggest differences between mountain bikes and other bikes is their tires, which tend to be wider and coarser. Mountain bike tires also need lower air pressure to keep you from bouncing when you hit a pothole, and the tire "squeezes" against the ground, meaning it absorbs energy and creates more friction with the road, thus slowing your rolling speed. A rough tread will also give you a firmer grip while letting you fill down.
Step 2: Posture
A more upright position gives you more wind resistance, and the faster you go, the more wind resistance you get.
3. Frame geometry
The mountain bike has a long geometric frame, good stability, and a high bottom bracket, which can go over obstacles. But this makes them somewhat slower compared to shorter bikes, such as road bikes, which can accelerate faster and turn at higher speeds.
Step 4: Weight
Mountain bikes are heavy because of their big tires and heavy suspension. The greater weight means they go uphill more slowly and with more drag.
5. Transmission device
The tooth plate of mountain bike is relatively small. Generally, the maximum tooth plate is about 40 teeth. There is no tooth plate for speed, of course, a larger tooth plate also means greater physical strength.
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