Full Suspension Mountain Bikes Offer Performance and Safety Advantages Over Hard Tails

One of the hottest issues today in mountain biking is whether or not to choose one of the full suspension mountain bikes as your next ride.  The debate rages: Full suspension mountain bikes v. hard tail mountain bikes.  Let’s give you the answer and then tell you why it makes sense.  For most riders full suspension mountain bikes are a better option.    Now let’s take a look at the details.

First of all, the obvious.  Full suspension mountain bikes offer a more comfortable riding experience than hard tail mountain bikes.  The increased comfort is more noticeable when the trail gets really rough and especially on down grades.  If you only ride flats then perhaps going with full suspension may not be vital.  We assume, however, you’re going to want to get off the easy trail at least some of the time, right?  Having rear suspension will take some of the bounce out of the rear wheel which will help prevent the seat from bouncing, something you don’t want happening even if you’re standing up.  Lowering yourself to sit down just as that seat is bouncing upwards can be pretty jolting.  Full suspension mountain bikes eliminate much of that kind of bike reaction.

The second major reason that most experts suggest full suspension mountain bikes v. hard tail mountain bikes is that those with full suspension offer better control.  In rare instances that bouncing rear wheel can throw you from the bike.  Under typical circumstances, when you’re rear wheel isn’t bouncing or wash-boarding you naturally have more authority over the movement of the bike.  This will lead to better performance for you, but also something else just as important – greater safety.

Those who disagree with the recommendation to choose full suspension mountain bikes point to 2 factors.  The first is cost.  All things being equal, you are going to pay roughly 5% more for a bike equipped with rear suspension.   The second reason has to do with performance.  Rear suspension mountain bikes experience slightly less efficient pedaling than you get with hard tail mountain bikes. The average or even good rider will notice very little difference, but in highly competitive events among top riders the difference might show up. Keep in mind, however, that bringing the bouncing rear wheel of a hard tail mountain bike under control can also cost seconds over the length of a course.

For most riders under most conditions a full suspension mountain bike is going to deliver a ride you’ll be much happier with.

Summary:  This article takes a brief look at the benefits of full suspension mountain bikes versus hard tail mountain bikes.  Full suspension models offer a smoother ride as well as better control and increased safety.  Hard tail mtb bikes pedal more efficiently and also cost slightly less.