Advantages of Full Suspension Mountain Bike The most popular and best-selling mountain bikes are the full suspension ones which are designed for all types of trails and terrains. These bikes are equipped with shock absorbers that make the ride comfortable and smooth. But what are the advantages of a full suspension mountain bike?
Let’s Check Them Out
1. Comfort and Smooth Ride Full suspension mountain bikes are equipped with shock absorbers which make the ride comfortable and smooth. It is said that these bikes are made for long rides and so, the ride will be smooth1 and comfortable.
2. More Durable Frame Full suspension mountain bikes are designed to withstand all kinds of terrain, but they are also more durable than regular mountain bikes. The frame is stronger and the tires will last longer because of this.
3. Easier Control Full suspension mountain bikes are equipped with rear suspension which makes the ride easier and smoother. This feature makes it easy to control the bike and adjust the height of the suspension.
4. Off-Road Performance Full suspension mountain bikes are designed for off-road riding as well. The suspension helps in absorbing shocks and bumps on the trail. It also makes the ride easier and smoother.
Are Hardtails Faster Than Full Suspension?
This is one of the most asked questions by both beginners and experienced bikers. We all know that hardtails are lighter in weight, so it is considered as the best choice for long distance riding. Full suspension is considered as the best option for short distance riding. So, which bike is faster? Let’s find out the answer.
Types Of Bikes
Hardtail A hardtail bike is a type of mountain bike which has no suspension at all. It has a frame that is made of steel or aluminum. The front wheel is usually larger than the rear wheel, and it has a step-through design.
Full suspension A full suspension bike has a frame with a suspension fork that absorbs the bumps and shocks of the road. It has a shock absorbing system, and it has an air spring for the rear wheel. The suspension fork also absorbs the shocks from the ground. It is considered as the best option for short distance riding.
Frame
The frames of a hardtail are made of steel, but they are not as durable as those of a full suspension bike.
The frames of a full suspension are made of carbon fiber, but they are heavier than those of a hardtail.
A hardtail frame weighs about 8 to 9 pounds, while a full suspension frame weighs about 12 to 15 pounds.
A hardtail frame can withstand harsh weather conditions, but a full suspension frame will not.
If you ride a full suspension bike, then you need to be careful about the speed at which you ride. If you ride at a high speed, then it will damage the shock absorbers of the suspension system.
Wheels
The front wheel of a hardtail is usually larger than the rear wheel, and it has a larger tire. The front wheel is usually wider and has a larger spoke count than the rear wheel. The rear wheel has a smaller spoke count.
The rear wheel of a full suspension bike has a larger spoke count than the front wheel. It also has a higher spoke count than the hardtail.
A hardtail has larger tires, so it can handle rough terrain better than a full suspension bike.
Tires
A hardtail bike has larger tires than those of a full suspension bike. So, it can handle rough terrains better than the full suspension bike.
So, these are the basic differences between hardtails and full suspension bikes. Now, we will see which one is faster.
I would say that a hardtail is faster than a full suspension bike for short distance riding, but for long distance riding a full suspension bike is the best option. If you want to ride a full suspension bike then you should be careful about the speed at which you ride.
Conclusion
So, these were some of the advantages of full suspension mountain bikes. If you are thinking about buying one then you should definitely go for one as it will make your ride more comfortable and smoother.
