The tires have a huge influence on the handling of a mountain bike. Anyone who puts on new tires therefore usually experiences a great aha moment. The new tires shine with more tread and therefore more grip and traction. You have to fork out around 60 francs for a good tire, so if you fit them yourself, you can significantly upgrade your bike with around 120 francs.

If you must, then go for it: tubeless

If you're already investing in new tires, you should switch to tubeless right away. Tires and tubeless systems are now fully developed. Without a tube, rolling resistance is measurably reduced, puncture protection is increased and grip and traction are also greatly improved. Anyone who dares to venture into the world of rim tapes and tubeless fluids must reckon with material costs of around 50 to 100 francs. And also expect to never want to ride with a tube again.

New grips

It is always amazing how long many riders remain loyal to their grips. The suspension service has long since been carried out, the tires have been changed several times - but the same shiny, greasy grips are still on the bike as they have been since the beginning. The aha experience with new grips is very underestimated: a new grip offers a lot of grip, more damping and more control on the handlebars. And the feeling with new grips is similar to lying in a bed at home with new bedding. Anyone investing in new grips should also try thinner or thicker grips. It's amazing what a grip with the ideal diameter can do for riding enjoyment, ergonomics and control. The grip tuning measure is extremely inexpensive, with 20-50 francs you are there.

New pedals

Whether click pedal or flat pedal: these have certainly had more rock contact in their previous existence than they would have liked. The click mechanism or the pins are so worn down that the grip on the sole of the shoe is anything but optimal. In most cases, the axle bearings on old pedals also run rough, which is not very efficient. New pedals cost between 75 and 150 francs - and it's amazing how better the contact with the bike feels when new pedals are on the cranks.

The all-round approach

None of these suggestions for a new feeling on the bike were convincing? Then the all-round approach is worth a try, because it's sure to hit the mark. The recipe: new tires (preferably tubeless), new grips, new pedals. It's difficult to put into words, but this trio really does make a bike look like new. The familiar vehicle seems completely transformed and generates more grip, more control and more comfort. Try it out!

PS: Wheel size mix

The author of these tips is not just into tubeless, new tires, grips and pedals. As an absolute aha experience, a wheel size mix is recommended, i.e. the motto "big at the front, small at the back". If you give your 27.5-inch bike a 29er front wheel, you will suddenly be able to master terrain that was previously considered unrideable. If you ride a 29er, you can use a 27.5" plus rear wheel to trim the steering angle to flat and give the bike unimagined uphill traction. Well, this wheel size mix may not work on all mountain bikes and may not suit all preferences, but once again: it's more than worth a try.

PPS: Cleaning!

Last but not least, here's a great free tip: clean your bike. This is quite simply the cure-all for making your old bike look (almost) as good as new...