| If you are looking to buy a full suspension mountain | | | | be lost as these bikes rely on pedal power far more. |
| bike there are a few things that you need to | | | | Less suspension travel will mean the suspension unit |
| consider. Firstly, why have you chosen to buy a | | | | is lighter, and these bikes need low weight. These |
| full-suspension mountain bike instead of a hardtail | | | | bikes are ideal for cross country or uphill racing. |
| bike? The reasons for full suspension will govern | | | | Trail bikes will have up to 6.5 inches of travel allowing |
| what you are looking to buy. If you are on a low | | | | for travelling over harsher terrain but they will be |
| budget, then maybe the best thing to do is think | | | | heavier so not for racing. for long trail rides over |
| twice about buying a full suspension bike, as those | | | | harsh terrain, then these bikes are ideal and can |
| available at lower pricing will probably be heavier and | | | | provide an exhilerating and comfortable ride. |
| therefore be outperformed by a good hardtail bike. | | | | If you are looking for free-riding or jumping, then you |
| Nowever, if you are serious about riding the rockiest | | | | dont need the speed so weight isnt an issue. 6-8 |
| of trails, then you need a good full suspension bike. | | | | inches of suspension travel is the right amount for |
| Full suspension mountain bikes are quite simply more | | | | these bikes. These bikes are really built to be abused, |
| fun than any hardtail, they offer superior comfort | | | | jumps, stunts and extreme terain can be taken in |
| and more control over rockier terrains particularly | | | | your stride. |
| downhill at speed, but choose your suspension well if | | | | For downhill bikes, take as much suspension travel |
| you want a good climber. | | | | aas you can. Up to 10 inches is good for covering |
| Be aware though that the suspension will give | | | | any terrain downhill. You will seriously feel the extra |
| additional wieght, and with weight comes less | | | | weight and loss of efficiency when pedalling uphill, |
| efficiency, however this is a trade-off that full | | | | they're not built for uphill riding, they don't rely on |
| suspension riders are well prepared to accept. | | | | pedal power, they're built for control over rough |
| When buying a full-suspension mountain bike the main | | | | terrain at high speed. |
| consideration is always what suspension travel do | | | | When buying a full-suspension mountain bike, the |
| you need? Well this depends on what you're looking | | | | best advice is to buy the best you can afford. A |
| to use the bike for. | | | | decent bike for any of the above disciplines will cost |
| A good cross country mountain bike will have less | | | | over $800 so seriously think hardtail at the lower end. |
| than 4.5 inches of travel, any more and efficiency will | | | | |