I recently Just purchased a KHS XC-204 Mountain Bike and I'am just a newbie. I was wondering if there is any modifications you experience riders may know about that will make this really enjoyable sport even more enjoyable?

First mod is to your cardio, then skill, then fork, brakes, tires, wheels, cranks, shock. In that order.

Pedals. Whether you're going clipless or platform, whatever came stock is probably not all that great. Saddle if it's not comfortable. Then ride it until you either break things or know what YOU want to upgrade. Don't upgrade for the sake of spending money.

I like the idea of maybe changing out saddle, pedals and tires (but wear the first set of tires out while you put in some miles), maybe grips; things that fine tune the fit/feel of the bike. Some nice accessories like good shoes, shorts, gloves, hydration pack etc to keep it comfortable on a ride. After that save up for a different bike, it's not worth changing out major components. Ride a lot and improving your skills on and off the bike (both riding and understanding the components and how to keep them in tune).

After the first weekend of riding i thought i was in shape. hahaha not the case.


I don't know how different the pedal platforms are. But i have been riding bikes during my childhood that were platform and non-clip. So i feel comfortable with just the platform pedals. I do like the grips but they did do a toll on my hands. I wasn't wearing gloves but i guess that might change when i buy them. I never thought about the different types of hydration packs I might look into that further. The main thing i want to look into is that rock of a seat. Boy my a$$ is hurting. But i guess if you keep riding it will get better over time and you'll become more use to it. And i would think that proper attire would be better then just basketball shorts and sneakers.