Max weight
The maximum load allowed for a bicycle is, in other words, the maximum weight that it can normally carry in normal use. Of course, when calculating the load, the weight of both the cyclist himself and the additional load that he carries with him is taken into account.
The permissible load must definitely not be exceeded: even if the bike does not break down immediately, off-design loads can weaken the structure, and an accident can occur at any time. Also note that it is desirable to have a certain weight margin — at least 15 – 20 kg: this can be useful in case of transporting heavy loads and will give an additional guarantee in emergency situations (for example, when a wheel gets into a pit). Considering that the average weight of an adult is about 70 – 80 kg, bicycles with a permissible load
of up to 100 kg can be classified as "lightweights",
from 100 to 120 kg — to the middle category,
more than 120 kg — to "heavy trucks".
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 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.
Rear hub model
Model of the hub used in the rear wheel of a bicycle. See Front Hub Model for details.
Freewheel/cassette model
Model of a cassette — a system of rear wheel gears — mounted on a bicycle. Cassettes of different models differ in characteristics and can belong to different classes — from entry-level to professional. Knowing the cassette model, you can get acquainted with its features in more detail (according to official documentation, reviews, user reviews, etc.). This is especially important when choosing a bike for professional cycling.
Crank model
Model of a connecting rod mounted on board a bicycle.
Cranks is a system of levers that connects the pedals and stars of the front carriage. With its help, the energy of the pressure of the cyclist's legs on the pedals is transmitted. Connecting rods are made from hardened steel, aluminium, titanium or carbon fibre and can be solid or hollow inside. Knowing a specific brand of connecting rod, you can find technical documentation for it or, for example, study reviews on this part on the Internet.
Bottom bracket model
Model of the carriage installed on the bike as standard. The bottom bracket is the part that connects the system (front sprockets with pedals) and the frame; roughly speaking — an axle with bearings.
For details on the meaning of the model of a particular part, see "Cassette Model".
Front derailleur
Model of the derailleur (derailer) installed on the carriage with pedals as standard on the bike. For more information on why you need to know the model of a particular bicycle component, see paragraph "Cassette Model".
