When it comes to customizing your mountain bike, you may be wondering if it’s possible to add pegs to it. I have done some research on this topic and found that the answer is not straightforward.
While it is possible to add pegs to most mountain bikes, it’s important to consider the potential risks and limitations before doing so.
One of the main concerns with adding pegs to a mountain bike is that they are not designed for stunts or carrying a lot of weight, unlike BMX bikes. This means that adding pegs could potentially damage your bike’s frame, fork, or derailleur.
Additionally, not all mountain bikes have bolt-on axles that are long enough to accommodate pegs, so you’ll need to check your bike’s specifications before attempting to add them.
Table of Contents
Can You Put Pegs on a Mountain Bike?
As a mountain biker, I have been asked many times whether it is possible to put pegs on a mountain bike.
The answer is yes, but there are some important things to consider before installing them.
Pegs on Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes are not designed to carry passengers or do stunts like BMX bikes. Therefore, installing pegs on a mountain bike can cause some issues.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Frame Damage: Mountain bike frames are not built to handle the weight and stress that pegs can put on them. Installing pegs can cause damage to the frame, fork, or derailleur.
- Installation Issues: Not all mountain bikes have the necessary holes or long enough bolt-on axles to install pegs. Quick-release wheels can also be unsafe for peg installation.
- Adaptability: Mountain bikes are not as adaptable as BMX bikes. Pegs can limit the bike’s maneuverability and stability on rough terrain.
If you still want to install pegs on your mountain bike, here are some tips:
- Choose the Right Pegs: Look for pegs that are designed for mountain bikes. Stunt pegs are not recommended for mountain biking.
- Proper Installation: Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. If you are unsure, seek professional help.
- Test and Adjust: After installation, test the pegs on flat terrain before attempting any tricks. Adjust them as needed for stability and comfort.
Pros and Cons of Putting Pegs on a Mountain Bike
As a rider, I often wonder whether I should put pegs on my mountain bike or not.
After doing some research and considering my riding style, I have come up with some pros and cons of putting pegs on a mountain bike.
Pros
1. Better Maneuverability
One of the significant advantages of putting pegs on a mountain bike is that it improves maneuverability.
With pegs, you can perform tricks and stunts that you couldn’t do before.
It also helps you balance better and improves your overall control over the bike.
2. Rest Your Legs
Putting pegs on your mountain bike can also help you rest your legs while riding.
You can sit on the pegs and take a break from pedaling, which is especially useful during long rides.
3. Room for Another Passenger
If you enjoy riding with a friend, putting pegs on your mountain bike can provide an extra seat for them.
It’s an excellent way to introduce someone to the sport and share the experience with them.
Cons
1. Damaged Fork and Inevitable Dents
One of the most significant drawbacks of putting pegs on a mountain bike is that it can damage your fork and frame.
The lateral stress put on the frame and fork while performing stunts can lead to dents and bends, which can be costly to repair.
2. Manufacturers Will Void the Warranty
Most bike manufacturers will void the warranty if you put pegs on your mountain bike.
This means that if anything goes wrong with your bike, you will have to pay for the repairs out of your pocket.
3. Extra Weight Can Lead to Flat Tires
Pegs add extra weight to your bike, which can lead to flat tires.
The added weight can put more stress on your tires, causing them to wear out faster and increase the risk of punctures.
Compatibility of Pegs with Mountain Bikes
When it comes to installing pegs on a mountain bike, there are a few compatibility issues that need to be considered.
In this section, I will discuss the compatibility of pegs with mountain bikes, covering axle compatibility, frame compatibility, and fork compatibility.
Axle Compatibility
One of the most important factors to consider when installing pegs on a mountain bike is axle compatibility.
Pegs require a long enough bolt-on axle for installation, which is not always the case with mountain bikes.
Some mountain bikes come with quick-release skewers, which are not suitable for pegs.
If your mountain bike has a quick-release skewer, you will need to replace it with a bolt-on axle.
There are two types of bolt-on axles: thru-axles and solid axles.
Thru-axles are becoming more common on mountain bikes, but not all frames are compatible with them.
If your mountain bike has dropouts designed for a solid axle, you will need to use a solid axle for peg installation.
Frame Compatibility
Another important factor to consider is frame compatibility. Not all mountain bike frames are suitable for pegs.
Pegs can cause damage to the frame, fork, or derailleur if not installed correctly or used improperly.
It is important to check with the manufacturer or a bike mechanic to ensure that your mountain bike frame is compatible with pegs.
Steel frames are generally more suitable for pegs than aluminum frames.
Steel frames are stronger and can handle the stress of pegs better than aluminum frames.
If you have an aluminum frame, you may need to reinforce the dropouts or use a special adapter to install pegs.
Fork Compatibility
Finally, fork compatibility is another important factor to consider. Not all mountain bike forks are suitable for pegs.
The fork needs to be strong enough to handle the stress of pegs and provide enough clearance for the pegs.
A sturdy fork with a steel steerer tube is recommended for peg installation.
Carbon fiber forks are not suitable for pegs, as they can crack or break under the stress of pegs.
It is important to check with the manufacturer or a bike mechanic to ensure that your mountain bike fork is compatible with pegs.
Types of Pegs
There are different types of pegs that you can choose from. In this section, I will discuss the materials, size, and shape of pegs that are commonly used.
Materials
Pegs are made from various materials, including plastic, steel, aluminum, and even carbon fiber. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Plastic pegs are lightweight and affordable but may not be durable enough for heavy use.
- Steel pegs are strong and durable but can add weight to your bike.
- Aluminum pegs are lightweight and durable but can be expensive.
- Carbon fiber pegs are super lightweight and strong but can be costly.
Size
The size of the pegs can also affect their performance. Pegs can range from four to four and a half inches in length, and their diameter can range from 35 to 38.5mm.
Smaller pegs are lighter, while larger pegs provide a larger area to land on.
When choosing the size of your pegs, consider your riding style and the type of tricks you want to perform.
Shape
Pegs come in different shapes, including cylinder and flat.
- Cylinder pegs are the most common and are shaped like a cylinder with a hole in the middle.
- Flat pegs are attached to either side of your bike and look like a screw with a wide head. They are made out of aluminum and titanium alloy or stainless steel.
Installation of Pegs on a Mountain Bike
Tools Required
Before installing pegs on your mountain bike, you will need a few tools to ensure a successful installation. Here’s a list of the tools you’ll need:
- Wrench
- Bolts
- Nuts
- Washer
- Long bolt-on axles
- Peg wedge
Make sure to have these tools on hand before starting the installation process.
Installation Process
Now that you have the necessary tools, let’s get started with the installation process:
- First, remove the washer and nut from the axle of your mountain bike.
- Next, install the bolt-on axle onto the bike.
- Once the bolt-on axle is installed, mount the peg on it.
- Tighten the peg using a deep socket.
- Repeat the same process for the other wheel.
It’s important to note that not all mountain bikes are suitable for pegs.
Make sure to check if your bike can handle the extra weight before proceeding with the installation process.
Additionally, installation can be unsafe for quick-release wheels, and you can damage your frame, fork, or derailleur.
Conclusion
After analyzing the pros and cons of putting pegs on a mountain bike, I have come to the conclusion that it is possible to install them, but it may not be the best idea for everyone.
If you are an experienced rider who enjoys performing stunts and tricks, then installing pegs on your mountain bike can be a great way to enhance your riding experience. However, if you are a beginner or just looking for a bike to ride for fun, then it may not be necessary to install pegs.
It is important to note that installing pegs can put additional stress on your bike’s frame and fork, which can lead to damage and costly repairs. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your bike is strong enough to handle the additional weight and pressure before installing pegs.
In summary, installing pegs on a mountain bike can be a fun and exciting way to enhance your riding experience, but it is important to consider the potential risks and ensure that your bike is strong enough to handle the additional weight and pressure. Always remember to use proper safety gear and ride responsibly.
FAQ
Can I put pegs on any mountain bike?
Yes, you can put pegs on most mountain bikes, but it’s important to check if your bike has a long enough bolt-on axle for the installation. Also, keep in mind that mountain bikes are not designed for tricks or stunts, so if you’re planning on using your bike for grinding or other kinds of tricks, you could damage your bike.
What size bike pegs do I need?
Almost all street and stunt bikes are equipped with 14mm axle pegs, which have a diameter that spans from 35 to 38.5mm, and the pegs are four to four and a half inches long. Large pegs give you more room to land on the rail, while tiny pegs give you less room to land.
Can I install pegs on a mountain bike with quick-release wheels?
Installing pegs on a mountain bike with quick-release wheels can be unsafe, as the pegs can loosen and cause the wheel to come off. It’s best to have bolt-on axles for the installation of pegs.
Will installing pegs damage my bike?
Using pegs can still put a lot of stress on your bike, even if it has a steel frame and sturdy suspension fork. Using pegs can damage the fork and cause inevitable dents on the bike.
Are there any risks to using stunt pegs on a mountain bike?
Yes, there are risks to using stunt pegs on a mountain bike. Using pegs can limit your ability to maneuver and control your bike, and you could also injure yourself if you’re not careful. It’s important to be aware of the potential risks and dangers of using stunt pegs before installing them on your mountain bike.
