Do you really need a full suspension mountain bike?

It seems like almost everywhere you look there is some kind of new and exciting development in the world of mountain biking that promises to make the average bike ride easier, smoother and even less effort than before.

With all the technological advancements in frames and various bicycle bits, it’s no wonder that mountain bike enthusiasts are spoilt for choice.

This article will explore some of the pro’s and con’s of full suspension mountain bikes…

Full suspension bikes: pro’s

- Full suspension bikes are better for beginners, as they provide better handling. Never underestimate the difficulty of mountain biking, and just how much of a difference good suspension can make.

- Full suspension bikes offer supreme comfort, something that some people cannot do without. Anyone with back problems simply can’t afford to be without full suspension bike. Anyone who suffers from ‘saddle butt’ cannot compromise on suspension.

- The main advantages of suspension bikes is the better handling, traction and overall control you get by investing in a full suspension.

Full suspension bikes: con’s

- The main drawback of a suspension bike is the cost. It’s quite amazing just how expensive a full suspension bike can be, with some models costing in excess of $6000, add to this the maintenance costs associated with a bike and you have one expensive piece of equipment!

- For some bikers, the feeling of a full suspension system is too much. Unless you are a beginner, or tackle challenging mountainous paths frequently, there really isn’t too much need for a full suspension bike. Many of the hardtail mountain bikes offer an equally comfortable ride.

Weigh up the pro’s and con’s for yourself and see just how much you can afford to spend on a mountain bike.

There’s no need to ride uncomfortably anymore, take advantage of some of developments in suspension technology and spoil yourself to a full suspension mountain bike.