Buyer's Guide to Ski Bikes: What's Important?

You've seen them on the slopes. You've seen them in the half-pipe. You have to get one! You're hooked on ski biking and need a fix. Problem is - ski biking isn't a mainstream winter sport. What should you look for when buying a ski bike besides the price? What's important when purchasing one? Why are there different designs? Where can one buy them? Interestingly, there are a number of considerations when buying a ski bike.

Bike Design:
There are three main body designs for ski bikes. Each design has its benefits. Determine what type of ski biking you would like to do most. That should help you determine the best bike design for you. Most recreational riders will enjoy the traditional sit-down ski bikes. Those who enjoy performing freestyle tricks will probably enjoy pegger ski bikes.

Suspension System:
Ski bikes can have a front suspension system, a rear suspension system, or a full suspension system. The more elaborate the suspension system usually produces a smoother ride. A weak suspension system may leave you with a sore bum and back the next day. If you plan on performing freestyle tricks, a full-suspension system would be a wise investment. A recreational rider could do fine with just a rear suspension system. The best way to determine fit is to demo ski bikes that you are interested in. Ski bikes are rated for the weight of rider. Find out the weight range the bike can handle.

Frame Size:
Ski bike frames can come in many sizes. Frames can handle riders four years old and up. Available sizes vary between manufacturers. Demo several frame sizes. You may find that a frame leaves you riding hunched over. Who needs a sore back!

Foot Skis:
The traditional sit-ski bikes are meant to be ridden with foot skis attached to boots. Usually they are attached to ski boots. More recently, foot skis are available that attach to snowboard boots. As snowboard boots are more comfortable than ski boots, it's an option worth considering.

Bike Skis:
What's on the menu? Powder, packed powder, trees, terrain park, jumps, beginner runs, or expert terrain? Just as downhill skis are designed for different types of skiing, the skis on ski bikes can be changed for different types of snow conditions or terrain. A number of manufacturers offer the option to get powder skis, carving skis, or freestyle skis. Get one set or several different types.

Seat style:
Seats usually come in one of two styles. Bikes have either a bicycle seat or a moto-style seat. This is a personal preference. The moto-style seat can offer additional points of contact with the bike and offer more control.

Weight of ski bike:
Ski bike frames can be built with many different materials. Aluminum is light, steel is heavy. Either way you are going to be carrying that bike to the slopes and possibly on the chair lift. Make sure the bike you choose isn't too heavy for you to carry.

Additional equipment:
What additional gear will you need to safely ride the bike? Traditional sit-ski bikes are ready to go with standard ski gear. If you plan on performing freestyle on a pegger, a full-face downhill mountain bike helmet might be in order.

Transport:
There are two considerations for transporting ski bikes. Transport to the slopes and transport on the chair lift. Some ski bikes break down for easy car transport were others do not. Ski bikes come with different methods to transport on the chair lift. Some require you to carry them were others are meant to rest on the chairlift. Ask the manufacturer how people have transported their ski bike.

Other:
Other things to think about: What is the swing arm construction? What's the travel on the front shocks? Does the bike come with a warranty? Can you demo one? How do I buy one? Do I have to pay shipping and handling?

Ski Bike Festivals with demo's available
Durango Mountain Resort, CO
Hoodoo, OR

New & Used Ski Bikes:
SkiBikeFun.com

Manufacturers:
Traditional Ski Bikes
Brenter Snowbike
Stalmach SkiBikes
Flachsmann

Foot Peg Ski Bikes
Geary Snow Bikes
Koski Snowsports
Lenz Sport
Sledgehammer
Schneevelo

Boardbikes
BikeBoard
Funcross
MetalWorx
Slopecycle
Snowscoot
Snowter
Venom
Trikke

Conversion Kits
WinterX Bike kit
Bikes on Snow kit