
Framed Cable Mountain Bike
- • Frame: Framed Cable Alloy
• Fork: SR SUNTOUR XCM 24″ Plus 15mm X 110mm
• Bottom Bracket: 68mm Sealed
• Chainwheel: Alloy 30T Narrow Wide
Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Framed Mountain Bike
Mountain biking is an incredibly fun and exciting sport that allows you to explore off-road trails and get your adrenaline pumping. To make the most out of mountain biking, having a quality bike designed specifically for rugged terrain is essential. Framed Mountain Bikes are some of the best mountain bikes available today known for their durability, high-performance, and innovative features perfect for trails.
If you’re in the market for a new mountain bike, Framed offers an extensive range of models to suit different riding needs and budgets. This comprehensive buying guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Framed Mountain Bikes to help you choose the ideal bike for your adventures.
What are Framed Mountain Bikes Known For?
Based in Minnesota, Framed has been designing and handcrafting mountain bikes right here in the USA for over 20 years. Their bikes are created for superior traction, control, and stability across rugged terrain so you can ride with confidence and push your limits on the trail.
Here are some of the key features Framed Mountain Bikes are known for:
- Innovative suspension designs – Framed bikes utilize special suspension systems and geometry to improve shock absorption and handling. Their Quad-Link rear suspension provides a smoother ride.
- High-quality aluminum or carbon frames – Framed frames are crafted from lightweight, durable aluminum or ultra-responsive carbon fiber to meet the demands of off-road riding.
- Super wide tires – Large, wide tires up to 27.5″ x 3″ provide incredible traction and stability on loose, rocky, steep, and uneven terrain.
- Advanced components – Framed equips their bikes with top components like SRAM Eagle drivetrains, RockShox suspension forks, tubeless-ready wheelsets, and hydraulic disc brakes for precision braking.
- Modern geometries – Framed uses updated geometries like slacker head tube angles, lower bottom brackets, and shorter chainstays for better handling downhill and around corners.
- Competitive pricing – Despite the premium quality, Framed Mountain Bikes are very competitively priced, providing serious value.
How Do You Choose the Right Framed Mountain Bike?
With the range of high-performance mountain bikes Framed has to offer, it’s important to consider your riding style, skills, and preferences to choose the model that’s right for you. Here are some tips on how to select the ideal Framed bike:
- Hardtail or full suspension? – Hardtail mountain bikes have front suspension only while full suspension bikes have front and rear suspension. Full suspension provides better comfort and control for technical terrain, while hardtails are lighter and more affordable.
- Wheel size – Common mountain bike wheel sizes are 27.5″ and 29″. 29ers roll over obstacles easier while 27.5″ wheels offer more agility.
- Frame material – Aluminum frames are light, durable and economical. Carbon fiber frames are lighter and absorb vibration better but are more expensive.
- Travel – Suspension fork travel between 120mm to 150mm is ideal for cross-country trails while 160mm to 180mm suits more aggressive enduro riding.
- Components – Look for drivetrain, brakes, etc. from reputable brands like SRAM, Shimano, RockShox. Higher end components offer better performance.
- Budget – Framed offers options from under $1,000 to over $5,000. Set a budget and find the best specs for the price.
- Riding style – Consider if you want a nimble XC bike for climbing and speed or an enduro bike for downhill tackling rugged terrain.
Trying out bikes to feel out the fit and handling is also recommended. Framed’s range caters to various mountain biking disciplines so you can find the ideal match.
Where Can I Buy Framed Mountain Bikes?
The best place to purchase Framed Mountain Bikes is directly from their official website FramedBikes.com where you can browse and customize the full model lineup. Framed offers free shipping within the continental USA plus easy returns to give you a risk-free purchase.
Framed bikes are also carried by authorized local retailers across the United States. Visiting a retailer allows you to test ride before you buy. Use Framed’s dealer locator tool on their website to find retailers in your region.
Some popular online bike stores like Competitive Cyclist, JensonUSA, Backcountry, and REI may also stock select Framed models by season. Supply can fluctuate so confirm availability.
Buying directly from Framed will give you the biggest selection. You can get limited deals like discounts or free upgrades by signing up for their newsletter. The Framed website also has excellent customer service to help you pick the right bike and specs.
Are Framed Mountain Bikes Good for Beginners?
Yes, Framed Mountain Bikes are great even for beginners getting started with mountain biking. They offer a range of quality entry-level bikes with beginner-friendly features:
- Hardtail frames – Hardtails are easier to control than full suspension bikes and don’t require as much tuning.
- 27.5″ or 29″ wheels – The maneuverability of 27.5″ and rollability of 29″ wheels instill confidence in new riders.
- Smooth riding suspension forks – Suspension forks with 100-120mm of travel absorb bumps and impacts for new riders.
- Simpler 1x or 2x drivetrains – Cleaner drivetrains with fewer gears simplify shifting for beginners.
- Capable brakes – Hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power without expert skill needed.
- Shallower head tube angles – More upright geometry makes it easier for beginners to control steering.
- Multiple sizes available – Framed offers bikes in XS to XL sizes so new riders can get a proper fit.
The right combination of these trail-worthy yet forgiving features in Framed’s beginner mountain bikes make them great for getting started. As your skills progress, you can advance to their higher-end bikes.
What Sizes Are Available for Framed Mountain Bikes?
To find the size Framed Mountain Bike that fits you best, they offer most of their models in a range of 5 size options from XS to XL plus size-specific geometries.
Here is a breakdown of the sizing and fitting for Framed mountain bikes:
- XS: 5’0”-5’4” riders
- Small: 5’3”-5’7” riders
- Medium: 5’6”-5’10” riders
- Large: 5’9″- 6’1″ riders
- XL: 6’0″+ riders
It’s recommended to consult Framed’s detailed size guides which provide recommended heights for each size along with minimum and maximum standover height info.
You can also use Framed’s Fit Calculator on their website which provides a custom recommended size based on your measurements of height and inseam length.
Visiting a local dealer to do an in-person fitting session is also beneficial to dial-in your ideal size, especially between overlapping sizes like small vs medium. Proper bike fit makes a big difference in performance and comfort.
How to Maintain a Framed Mountain Bike?
Investing some time into regular maintenance will keep your Framed Mountain Bike shining and riding like new for years. Here are some tips for maintaining your Framed bike:
- Clean after every ride – Use bike cleaner and a rag to wipe off any dirt, debris, or mud after each ride to prevent buildup. Pay extra attention to the drivetrain.
- Lubricate the chain – Keep your chain lubricated with bike chain lube to prevent rust and reduce wear. Wipe excess lube off.
- Check tire pressure – Inspect tire pressure before every ride and inflate tires to the recommended PSI on the sidewalls.
- Inspect and replace worn parts – Check brake pads, chains, tires, shifter cables for wear and replace as needed.
- Schedule tune-ups – Have yearly tune-ups done by a bike mechanic to inspect all components and service moving parts.
- Detail clean – Do a thorough cleaning using bike soap with brushes for the frame, degreaser for the drivetrain, and bike wash for wheels periodically.
- Store properly – Keep your Framed stored indoors and out of the elements when not riding to prevent damage.
Following a maintenance routine will ensure your Framed continues riding smoothly for miles to come. Consult your bike manual for any model-specific care instructions too.
What is the Weight of a Typical Framed Mountain Bike?
The weight of a Framed Mountain Bike can range anywhere from around 25 pounds to 35 pounds depending on the frame material, components, and type of bike.
Some general weight guidelines:
- Lightweight XC hardtails – 25-28 lbs
- Trail/All-mountain hardtails – 28-32 lbs
- Full suspension trail bikes – 30-34 lbs
- Downhill/enduro bikes – 32-35 lbs
The lighter XC hardtails use lightweight aluminum or carbon frames paired with cross country focused components to achieve lower overall weights.
Heavier duty trail, all-mountain, and downhill bikes have heavier duty frames, longer travel suspension, and burlier parts that add weight but also capability and strength for aggressive riding.
When comparing weights, make sure to look at bikes with similar frames, materials, and components for an accurate idea of the weight in a certain category. Lighter doesn’t necessarily mean better quality. Focus on the right balance of weight, capability, and performance for how you want to ride.
How to Customize a Framed Mountain Bike?
One great feature of Framed Mountain Bikes is that they offer full customization on most models directly through their website. This allows you to upgrade components and dial in the bike’s specs perfectly for your riding needs.
Some of the parts commonly customized on Framed bikes include:
- Suspension fork – Upgrade to higher end RockShox or Fox suspension forks with more travel and adjustability.
- Drivetrain – Change to a lighter weight or higher end drivetrain like SRAM X01 Eagle.
- Brakes – Upgrade to more powerful brakes like SRAM Guide RE or Shimano XT.
- Wheels – Choose carbon wheelsets for reduced weight. Opt for tubeless compatibility.
- Handlebars – Wide carbon handlebars provide better control. Shorten stem length.
- Saddle – Upgrade to ergonomic saddles designed for mountain biking.
- Pedals – Swap to better quality pedals with more grip like composite platforms.
- Tires – Maxxis and Schwalbe offer trail and terrain specific tread options.
The customization options on Framed’s site make it easy to equip your dream mountain bike tailored exactly how you want it.
What Materials Are Used in Framed Mountain Bikes?
Framed engineers their mountain bikes to meet the demands of aggressive trail riding using quality materials that provide durability, strength, and light weight. Here are the main materials used:
Aluminum Frames
- 6061 aluminum alloy or AMS Sterling Silver alloy
- Offers excellent strength to weight ratio
- More economical than carbon
- Smooth welds
- Available on hardtails and full suspension
Carbon Fiber Frames
- High modulus carbon fiber
- Lighter than aluminum
- More compliance and vibration damping
- Excellent stiffness and precision handling
- More expensive
- Available on high-end models
Suspension Forks
- Uses RockShox, Fox suspension
- Air spring or coil spring options
- Aluminum stanchions with magnesium lowers
- Durable seals and dampers
Drivetrain Parts
- SRAM Eagle or Shimano drivetrains
- CNC machined aluminum chainrings, cassettes
- Nickel-plated or hollow link steel chains
- Alloy shifters and derailleurs
Framed carefully selects quality materials proven for mountain biking to build bikes that can keep up with hardcore riding. The materials combine to optimize weight, strength, longevity, and performance.
Are Framed Mountain Bikes Suitable for Trails?
Absolutely! Framed Mountain Bikes are designed specifically with trail riding in mind. Their mountain bikes feature geometry, components, and capabilities that make them perfectly suited for both natural and maintained trails.
Key features that make Framed bikes great for trail riding:
- Superior traction from wide tires
- Confident handling from balanced geometry
- Increased control from wider handlebars
- Powerful braking from hydraulic discs
- Suspension to absorb impacts and roughness
- Durable frames and wheels to handle scrapes and debris
- Efficient 1x or 2x drivetrains with wide range gearing
- Capable suspension forks with ample travel
Whether you are riding flowing XC trails, steep technical singletrack, or downhill runs, Framed Mountain Bikes provide the performance to handle any type of trail. Riders praise the stability, precision, and fun factor of Framed bikes on the trails.
Plus Framed offers suspension and components that can be upgraded to dial the bike in for your local trails. Overall an excellent choice for your next trail adventure!
What is the Price Range for Framed Mountain Bikes?
Framed Mountain Bikes range in price from affordable beginner models around $800 going up to high-performance carbon race bikes over $5,000.
Here is an overview of the price range by category:
- Beginner hardtails – $800 – $1200
- Trail hardtails – $1200 – $2000
- Cross country full suspension – $2000 – $3500
- Trail/All-mountain full suspension – $3000 – $4500
- Downhill/Enduro – $3500 – $5500
- Top-tier carbon race bikes – $5000+
You can find very capable aluminum Framed hardtails suitable for a wide range of trail riding for under $1500. Moving into full suspension bikes opens more options for rugged terrain at a $2000+ price point.
Their premium carbon framed bikes with high-end components climb to $5000+ but deliver featherweight performance for cross country or enduro racing.
Framed manages to pack great value into their bikes at every price point. Take advantage of sales on last year’s models if you want maximum bang for your buck.
How to Assemble a Framed Mountain Bike?
Framed Mountain Bikes come partially assembled direct from the factory. Finishing the assembly yourself is a straightforward process:
- Start by attaching the front wheel to the fork using the through-axle or quick release. Tighten properly.
- Next, install the seat post and saddle using the seat tube clamps. Adjust to correct height.
- Install pedals into the crank arms, taking care with left vs right. Grease threads.
- Mount the handlebars into the stem and tighten to desired position. Attach shifters and brake levers.
- Install the front and rear derailleurs and feed the derailleur cables through frame stops. Adjust limit screws.
- Thread cables through brake levers and calipers. Insert brake pads as needed.
- Ensure all bolts and clamps are properly torqued for safety.
- Inflate tires to recommended PSI stated on the sidewalls.
- Finally, test the brakes and shifters and make any adjustments needed. Go over a final safety check.
Some basic mechanical skills are helpful for assembly. Consult Framed’s manuals or tutorials for model-specific steps. Local bike shops can also help with assembly for a small fee. Take your time and double check all steps.
What are the Best Accessories for Framed Mountain Bikes?
Once you have your Framed Mountain Bike ready to roll, decking it out with some key accessories can really enhance your riding experience:
- Helmet – Protect your head with a lightweight, well-ventilated helmet. Models with MIPS technology offer added protection.
- Multi-tool – A compact multi-tool with hex wrenches, screwdrivers, etc. is handy for trailside repairs.
- Tire Pump – Carry a portable pump designed for mountain bikes to refill low tires on the go.
- Hydration Pack – Keep yourself fueled and hydrated in a comfortable, bounce-free hydration backpack.
- Pedals – Upgrade the stock pedals to quality clipless or platform pedals with better grip.
- Lights – Handle low visibility conditions with a bright LED headlight and taillight.
- Phone Mount – A secure phone mount lets you follow digital maps and track your ride.
- Bike Computers – Compact cycling computers provide data on speed, distance, cadence and more.
- Dropper Seatpost – Make height adjustments on the fly with a remotely activated dropper post.
Accessorizing your Framed MTB enhances performance and gives you more capabilities out on the trail. Start with the essentials first.
Can Framed Mountain Bikes Handle Rough Terrain?
The short answer is yes – Framed Mountain Bikes are purpose-built to tackle even the roughest terrain. They utilize sturdy frames, quality components and proper geometry to provide control across rugged trails.
Key design elements that allow Framed bikes to excel on rough terrain:
- Strong aluminum or carbon frames – Engineered to be rigid and withstand hard impacts and abuse.
- Long suspension travel – Forks with 150mm+ and rear shocks with 120mm+ of travel to soak up big hits.
- Slack geometry – Allows you to descend and maneuver better with a slacker head tube angle and lower bottom bracket.
- Short chainstays – Improve traction and handling over obstacles with shorter rear chainstays.
- Wide rims and tires – Give enhanced stability and traction on loose surfaces for confident cornering.
- Powerful brakes – Large rotors and quality hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power.
- Durable components – Parts like cranks, wheels, derailleurs can stand up to jarring forces.
Tested and proven on punishing terrain all over the world, Framed Mountain Bikes have both the resilience and finesse to come out on top when riding gets rowdy.
How Durable Are Framed Mountain Bikes?
Framed Mountain Bikes are built to be long-lasting and withstand years of hardcore riding thanks to their durable frames, quality components and robust parts.
Some examples that demonstrate the durability and longevity of Framed mountain bikes:
- Lifetime frame warranty – All Framed frames are backed by a lifetime warranty against defects or failure. A testament to their construction.
- Trail-proven frames – Framed frames are tested by their Minnesota based team on brutal trails to prove their mettle. The frames stand up to the abuse.
- High-grade aluminum or carbon – Framed’s material selection for frames is rugged. 6061 aluminum alloys offer a great strength-to-weight ratio. Their high modulus carbon can handle the stress from riding.
- Overbuilt parts – Key components like cranksets, rims, handlebars, stems and seatposts are over-engineered for added strength. No frail XC parts here.
- Quality sealed bearings – Rugged Enduro MAX sealed bearings in wheelsets, bottom brackets, headsets resist contamination and wear.
- Weather-beating finishes – Powercoat or anodized aluminum finishes plus clearcoated carbon frames stand up to the elements.
- Proven durability reputation – Check out reviews and see Framed owners happily racking up miles year after year out on the trails.
Framed bikes are built for the long haul so you can enjoy hitting the trails worry-free for seasons to come.
What are the Popular Models of Framed Mountain Bikes?
With over a dozen unique models available, here is a breakdown of Framed’s most popular mountain bike models for trail riding and enduro:
Minnesota 1.0
- Style: Trail Hardtail
- Wheel Size: 27.5″ or 29″
- Travel: 120mm Fork
- Frame: 6061 Alloy
- Pricing: $899-$1499
- Categories: Cross-Country, Trail, Adventure
Minnesota 2.0
- Style: Trail Hardtail
- Wheel Size: 27.5″ or 29″
- Travel: 130mm Fork
- Frame: 6061 Alloy
- Pricing: $1399-$2099
- Categories: All-Mountain, Trail
Minnesota 3.0
- Style: Trail Full Suspension
- Wheel Size: 27.5″
- Travel: 130/115mm F/R
- Frame: 6061 Alloy
- Pricing: $2199-$2799
- Categories: All-Mountain, Enduro
Peak 2.0
- Style: Enduro Full Suspension
- Wheel Size: 27.5″
- Travel: 160/150mm F/R
- Frame: AMS Alloy
- Pricing: $2799-$4799
- Categories: Enduro, Downhill
These trail-slaying models offer the versatility, capability and value that make Framed bikes so well regarded among riders.
Are Framed Mountain Bikes Easy to Repair?
Yes, Framed Mountain Bikes are designed to be user-friendly when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Here are some of the repair-friendly features of Framed bikes:
- Standard component interfaces – Framed uses standard headset, bottom bracket, rear hub, and other part interfaces so replacements are easy to find.
- Common fastener sizes – Bolts on Framed bikes use common metric sizes that any home mechanic will have tools for already.
- Basic tool requirements – Only basic tools like hex wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers needed for most adjustments and fixes.
- No proprietary parts – Framed doesn’t use rare or proprietary components that would be hard to source replacements for.
- Step-by-step tutorials – The Framed website provides detailed tutorials with photos for repairs like brake bleeding, hub service, etc.
- Responsive customer service – Their customer service assists with troubleshooting repairs or finding replacement parts.
- Easy cable routing – Smart internal cable routing through the frame tubes makes installing new cables a breeze. No fishing cables.
Overall Framed bikes are DIY-friendly so you can keep your ride going in tip-top shape yourself with basic mechanical skills!
How to Adjust the Suspension on a Framed Mountain Bike?
Getting the rear shock and front fork on your Framed Mountain Bike dialed in for your weight and riding style is key to achieving optimal suspension performance on the trail. Here are some tips for adjustment:
Rear Shock
- Set sag – Use the sag indicators to set rear compression to 15-20% of travel.
- Adjust rebound damping – Control return speed by turning rebound knob. Faster for moderate terrain, slower for technical terrain.
- Tune compression damping – Use the 3-position blue lever to fine tune low-speed compression. Firm for efficient pedaling, soft for comfort.
- Check air pressure – Use a shock pump to check pressure is set correctly for your weight. Add or remove air as needed.
Suspension Fork
- Set sag – Use the sag ring or zip tie method to set fork sag to 15-20% of full travel.
- Adjust rebound – Turn the red rebound knob to control return speed. More rebound damping for rough terrain.
- Set air pressure – Check and adjust pressure with a shock pump based on your weight and riding preference.
- Adjust volume spacers – Change volume spacers in each fork leg to fine tune bottom out resistance and progressiveness.
Refer to your bike’s manual for specific details on setting your rear shock and front suspension. Take time to test adjustments on full rides. Suspension set up makes a huge difference.
What is the Warranty on Framed Mountain Bikes?
Framed proudly offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects on all their mountain bike frames and a 2 year component warranty from date of purchase.
Details of the warranties:
Frame Warranty:
- Covers any frame defect or failure
- Lifetime warranty
- Applies to original owner
- Covers aluminum and carbon frames
Component Warranty:
- 2 year coverage from purchase date
- Covers parts like suspension, drivetrain, wheels
- 1 year coverage on consumables like tires
- Only valid for original owner
To enact the warranty, contact Framed customer service with photos and details of the issue. They’ll coordinate resolving it through repair, replacement or refund.
Framed warranties give you peace of mind that your investment is protected long-term. Be sure to register your bike’s serial number upon purchase. Maintain your bike well and the coverage has you covered.
How to Clean a Framed Mountain Bike Properly?
Regular cleaning keeps your Framed Mountain Bike looking fresh and helps maintain its performance. Here are some tips for properly cleaning your Framed MTB:
- Rinse bike thoroughly with water to remove excess dirt and debris. Use a hose or bike wash.
- Fill a bucket with warm water and a specialty bike wash soap. Use bike-specific brushes like a stubby brush for the frame.
- Clean the chain by running it through a chain cleaning device or rag soaked in degreaser.
- Scrub wheel rims and cassette using brushes. Wipe down rotors with isopropyl alcohol.
- Use a rag and soap to wipe down the frame, handlebars, saddle, etc. cleaning off grime buildup.
- Rinse all soap residue off the bike completely when done scrubbing everything down.
- Dry the bike with a chamois cloth or microfiber towel to prevent water spots.
- Lubricate the chain after cleaning to prevent rusting and drivetrain wear.
- Avoid using pressure washers which can force contaminants into parts.
Do a deep clean after muddy, dusty or especially dirty rides. Keep your Framed MTB fresh! Proper cleaning and bike care will keep it riding smoothly for many seasons.