A Hardtail MTB come with only a front suspension fork. These MTB’s accelerate well and provide good pedal performance for off-road and rough urban road cycling. They climb well and tend to be light, depending on the frame. Hardtails are quite common and tend to offer better components for the money when paired with a similar full suspension bicycle. These MTB’s are quite sturdy and responsive, which makes them great for single tracks, trails and unpaved urban roads that are smoother with occasional obstacles.
A Mountain Bike or MTB gives riders the ability to ride through rough terrain and explore the outdoors in a rugged, adventurous manner. Mountain Cycling is rough at times because of the terrain and various obstacles, and MTB’s offer different types of suspension systems to help ease the wear on both the Bicycle and the rider from harsh riding. Hardtail MTB’s have a rigid frame with shock-absorbing suspension in the front fork. A Dual Suspension or Full Suspension Bicycle has suspension in both the front fork and in the rear of the frame.
ADVANTAGES OF A HARDTAIL FRONT SUSPENSION MTB
ADVANTAGES OF A FULL SUSPENSION MTB
Dual suspension MTBs absorb impact not only in the front of the bicycle but also at the rear. Heavier than their rigid counterparts, dual suspension MTBs are significantly more comfortable on rugged terrain filled with obstacles. Full suspension MTB’s don't give their riders the best pedal performance but offer riders with back injuries better support. They perform well off jumps and for downhill riding mainly on unpredictable trails. There are many budget full suspension MTBs in the market which have a barely working rear suspension. These are purely for rough urban road usags and are not be confused with a fully loaded dual suspension MTB meant for the trails.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Before choosing between a dual suspension and a hardtail MTB, it is important to ask yourself a few questions:
- What type of riding will you be doing?
- Will the terrain be moderately smooth with some obstacles such as roots, rocks and bumps or just rough urban roads; or will you be riding on full-fledged rugged trails?
- Is it important to have a lighter bike?
- Is maintenance a concern for you?
- Do you need a MTB that is responsive and manoeuvrable?
- Do you want to conserve more energy?
- Is cost a concern?
Conclusion
Neither a full suspension nor a hardtail is better than the other, because each is well-suited for certain terrain and riding styles. Dual suspension MTB’s are more comfortable on very rough trails and rugged terrains and offer a smoother ride. Hardtails are significantly lighter than dual suspension MTBs. They manoeuvre and accelerate well and are great for riding on moderate trails and rough urban roads. Hardtails are also more responsive and are easier to handle as well. If you have any more questions or need help in buying an MTB, get in touch with us and we will help you choose the right MTB for you.
