| I have started to loose count of the number of | | | | Question: Which bike is better at handling obstacles |
| times I've heard questions such as, "What type of | | | | and rough terrain? |
| mountain bike should I buy?" and "What is the | | | | Answer: Because of the shock absorbers in both the |
| difference between a full suspension mountain bike | | | | front and the rear, full suspension bikes outperform |
| and a hardtail mountain bike?" One type of bike is not | | | | hardtails in rough terrain. The suspension absorbs the |
| better than the other. The choice between the two | | | | impact of obstacles and allows for more traction to |
| should be made based on the riders' personal riding | | | | be transferred to the ground. |
| preferences, budget and physical capabilities. The | | | | Question: Which bike is better at climbing hills? |
| FAQ below was compiled in order to help you with | | | | Answer: Because of their light weight and easier |
| this all-important choice. | | | | handling, hardtail mountain bikes are better at climbing |
| Question: What are full suspension bikes? | | | | hills. However, full suspension mountain bikes do |
| Answer: Also known as dual-suspension mountain | | | | outperform hardtails on hills that are made up of |
| bikes, these bikes have shock absorbers installed in | | | | rough terrain. |
| both the front and rear tires. | | | | Question: Which bike is easier on the body? |
| Question: What are hardtail bikes? | | | | Answer: F.S. bikes are more comfortable than their |
| Answer: Also known as front or single suspension | | | | counterparts. It minimizes the stress on riders' arms |
| mountain bikes, these bikes have shock absorbers | | | | and backs caused by vibrations and jolts during long |
| installed in the front tire only. | | | | rides. |
| Question: Which type of mountain bike tends to be | | | | Question: Which is more affordable? |
| faster? | | | | Answer: Hardtail bikes are usally more affordable than |
| Answer: Hardtail bikes tend to be faster and pedal | | | | full suspension bikes of similar quality. |
| easier in smooth terrain than full suspension mountain | | | | Now you are equipped with the information you need |
| bikes because of the former's light weight and stiff | | | | to make the right choice. Happy Trailing! |
| rear end. | | | | |