Potentially Stupid Question

[soulshade]

I am just now getting into cycling and I have a few questions about how I might do a couple of things. One would be are there any upgrades I can get that will increase my overall speed? Somewhere to start anyhow? I have looked at crankshafts and I currently have 48 tooth and I was wondering if I should go bigger. I have a mountain bike but all I can find that is any bigger is for road bikes. Can you rig that? Thanks for any help.

[w00dy]

A bigger gear will make you faster if you can push it. A larger chainring in the front will fit, but you might have to get a new front derailler to make it shift properly.

If you're riding smooth cross country trails, narrower tires at a higher psi will help. Make sure that your hubs spin smooth and your chain is lubed. That will make all the difference in the world.

[soulshade]

Thank you. That information is very encouraging. I live in colorado so it mostly isn't smooth unfortunatley.

[StinkLink]

the best way to increase your speed is to ride A LOT!