There is a special feel about full-suspension bikes that sets it apart from others. With a full-suspension mountain bike, you get full control, maximum comfortability, and performance in varying types of terrains. Over time, these bikes have been modified to offer the best performance fit for its description. What then is a full suspension bike? 

This article gives you an insight into what a full suspension bike is, when and why you should get one and a special section on what to look out for when choosing a full suspension mountain bike.

What is a Full suspension Mountain Bike?

As a cycler, it is paramount that you have good knowledge of the types of bikes and when to get one. A full-suspension bike is very easy and simple to understand. If you take a look at its design, there is a suspension fork and a rear shock. Yes, these features affect your control, comfort, and traction while riding. Arguably, it is one of the most enjoyable bikes to ride.

When and Why Should You Get a Full Suspension Bike?

Cyclers need bikes for different purposes. Brands have different designs to fit the need and skill levels of these cyclers. There are various bikes to choose from. However, you should get a full-suspension bike if:

You are looking for Comfort

As said earlier, full-suspension bikes offer comfort like no other. While riding on this bike, it absorbs all the shock waves from impacts. This makes you less fatigued and prevents loss of control. In a full-suspension bike, you can ride fast and for hours without feeling tired.

Your Terrain is Very Technical

There is a chance that the path you choose to explore is very gravelly, undulating, and steep. The best bike to get you through these paths without losing control, comfort, or the fun part of cycling, is a full suspension bike. The front and back suspension gives you better control and handling on hard terrains.

You Want Speed

Full suspension bikes offer speed and technique on hard terrains. Both suspensions offer good absorption for bumps creating more speed.

You Can Afford It

Full suspension bikes are not the cheapest bikes to get. Good quality ones range from $1,500 and above. So, if your budget suits the price, you should get a full-suspension bike.

How to Choose a Full Suspension Mountain Bike

When looking for a full-suspension mountain bike, there are a few things you need to consider. The end goal should be a high-quality bike that suits your needs and offers the quality of a full suspension wheel. Here is a list of things to consider when choosing a full-suspension mountain bike:

Budget

High-quality mountain bikes do not come so cheap. You have to be willing to put in the cash for your satisfaction. A piece of advice would be to save up until you can afford a good full suspension mountain bike. Nevertheless, there are some fairly used full suspension mountain bikes that come cheaper and in good condition. 

Wheel Size

Wheel size is very important when choosing a full-suspension mountain bike. There are three classes of wheel size: 26′, 27.5′ and the 29′. 26′ was the most common before other wheel sizes came into play. To understand which wheel size you need to pick, here’s what you need to know:

27.5′ offers a balance between the 26′ and 29′. They roll easily over terrains and are easier to maneuver than the 29′. They offer an advantage to the other sizes.

29′ are quite slower to accelerate but offer the best speed when fully accelerated. They are the fastest of all sizes. These wheels can conquer obstacles better than any other and are very effective for high mileage.

There are also the 27.5+ (28′) and the 24′ for kids. 

Frame Material

The frame material in a full suspension mountain bike has an effect on its weight, durability, price, and quality. There are three common frame materials used in suspension bikes: carbon fiber, aluminum. Titanium and steel. 

Aluminum is used in most full-suspension mountain bikes. They are predictably more expensive than the other materials and lighter.

Steel is tougher than aluminum and carbon-fiber but is heavy and relatively inexpensive.

Carbon fiber is used really in most full suspension mountain bikes except in fat bikes, all-mountain bikes, and high-end trail bikes. They are lightweight and strong but the most expensive of them all.

Titanium is almost rare these days. It is the strongest and very light. However, it is expensive because of the high labor involved in manufacturing.

Gear

Choosing the right gear can be quite tricky. Nevertheless, it is simple when you look at it this way: the cheaper and more challenging your terrain, the more gears you should opt for. If you are riding on a flat pass, you may want to go for a bike with a lower number of gears. Bike gears are not as important because they now come with two or three chain rings providing a variety of gear changes. However, some bikes with a chain ring are simpler because you can change gears easily and comfortably. Gears can also be modified even after you have bought a bike.

Brakes

Most bike brakes used to be rim brakes, but recently disc brakes have replaced the rim. The disc brakes are either hydraulic or mechanical. The hydraulic disc brakes offer stronger stops with less effort while the mechanical can be manually adjusted as it wears.

It is advisable to go for a disc brake over the rain because it is more consistent, cheaper to replace, and offers more performance in steep and wet terrains. However, it is more expensive to maintain over the rim brake. Most entry-level mountain bikes still use rim brakes.

Fit

You should be sure to get the right size. A full-suspension mountain bike that fits well offers you flexibility, performance, and comfort. He also improves your confidence while riding, making you overcome challenging obstacles easier. A bike that doesn’t fit well may be a problem while you ride. Manufacturers produce bikes in small, medium, and large sizes. However, these sizes do not correspond to all brands. A large for one brand and maybe medium for another. To get the best size, go to the bike store and see which fits best. Ask for a test ride and test the comfortability, brakes, resistance, and performance in the process. When you stand, make sure that the clearance is only about a few centimeters.

Maintenance

Before you wheel your full suspension mountain bike away, ask the store for suspension adjustments to suit your weight. Also, consider the maintenance essentials that come with the bike like a pump, patch kit, tire levers, and other protective gear like a helmet.

Conclusion

The full-suspension mountain bike is a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and control. Its design is best for overcoming steep and challenging terrains with ease and without hindering your speed. While they don’t come very cheap, you have to take good care when choosing one.

Make sure to go for quality and the one that best suits your needs. Put these buying tips into action and wheel out the store with the best full suspension mountain bike you ever had. Check a comprehensive guide for full suspension mountain bike from freshbikescycling.com