I want to get a trials bike, but they are all super expensive. If I purchased a used dirt jump bike, would it be okay to start out with?

-Tyler from Texas

MBA: Great idea, Tyler. It wasn’t all that many years ago that trials were ridden on regular 26" wheeled mountain bikes. Well, maybe it was a long time ago, but a dirt jumper will serve you well for getting your feet wet in trials (without dabbing). Most DJ bikes are sold without a front brake, and the rear brake is sometimes ornamental. Good stoppers will be necessary to convert your DJ'er into a trials-worthy bike. You should be able to get away with the tires on the DJ'er as long as you pay close attention to the tire pressure for the section you are riding. If you school them on your bike, don’t be surprised if somebody offers you a deal on the real thing. And just think how good it would feel to podium against all those tricked-out trials bikes. Go have fun, and good luck.

Hit the following link to ask Mountain Bike Action a question: mbaction@hi-torque.com