mountain bike with road use

delwest said:

Hello,

I am looking into purchasing a bicycle that is useful for both off road trails and
regular residential street riding.
I want the bike to be truly equipped for off road trails.
Should I go with the mountain bike?
What are the drawbacks if any of using a mountain bike on residential streets?

Can you describe the off road trails? Hardpack soil? Gravel? Rocks? Tree roots? Are you sure you need a mountain bike? The biggest drawback of using a mountain bike on the road is speed, mainly because of larger tire tread and lower gearing compared to a road bike or hybrid.

delwest said:

I am looking into purchasing a bicycle that is useful for both off road trails and
regular residential street riding.
I want the bike to be truly equipped for off road trails.
Should I go with the mountain bike?
What are the drawbacks if any of using a mountain bike on residential streets?

I presume that you will only be ambling along when you are riding on residential streets ...

So, you should buy an appropriate MTB for the off-road riding conditions you want to ride on ... are you talking about a rough graded gravel road, a rutted fire road, or single track? Or, something else?

The disadvantage of riding a MTB on the street is that a MTB is usually heavier than a ROAD bike.

If you don't change the tires, then you will have less traction when riding on pavement than if the bike has regular "road" tires. "Road" tires for 26" MTB wheels are generally called "slicks" ...

Also, "good" MTB tires cost a lot more than 26" street slicks; so, if you don't change the tires for the surface conditions, then you'll be adversely affecting your wallet.

If you are taller than 5'10" then you may want to consider a 29er.

Scotty_Dog,
Thanks for the reply. The off road trails will be simply dirt trails along pastureland.
No real mountainous areas, just slight grades and hard packed dirt.
I guess I don't need a mountain bike. What would you suggest? Brand?

Scotty_Dog said:

Can you describe the off road trails? Hardpack soil? Gravel? Rocks? Tree roots? Are you sure you need a mountain bike? The biggest drawback of using a mountain bike on the road is speed, mainly because of larger tire tread and lower gearing compared to a road bike or hybrid.

delwest said:

Scotty_Dog,
Thanks for the reply. The off road trails will be simply dirt trails along pastureland.
No real mountainous areas, just slight grades and hard packed dirt.
I guess I don't need a mountain bike. What would you suggest? Brand?

I suggest going to your local bike shop for their advice. They will know your local terrain, and be able to make suggestions for your riding conditions. As a beginner, you need to see the different styles of bikes available, and also determine your budget. A fitting session by the bike shop would also be beneficial.