When should I switch from hardtail to full-suspension?

Going from a hardtail to a full-suspension MTB is a good choice if you want to ride the more technical trails that incorporate downhill sections and you need a bike that can safely handle all the challenges that come with technical trails.

Is a hardtail better than full suspension?

The brief answer is: Choose a full-suspension bike if you are willing to spend a bit more and you want to ride technical trails. On the other hand, choose a hardtail bike if you're on a tighter budget and/or plan to spend most of your time on smoother trails.

Can I convert hardtail to full suspension?

A lot of people don't know this, but most of the components in a light bulb repair kit can be used in a pinch to convert a hardtail mountain bike to full suspension. And light bulb repair kits are way cheaper than full suspension conversion kits.

Do you really need a full suspension mountain bike?

Suspension gives you greater comfort and control when riding over rough ground. Mountain biking is a diverse sport, one that takes in a wide variety of terrain. While relatively smooth trails may suit hardtails , full-suspension setups undoubtedly come into their own on bumpier, longer rides.

Is it easier to jump on a hardtail or full suspension?

When you are deliberately jumping, a hardtail is easier to jump than a full suspension because hardtails are generally lighter and easier to elevate due to the lack of a rear suspension. However, in all other cases, a full-suspension bike takes the cake.

Full Suspension Vs Hardtail | What's More Fun?

Will I be faster on a full suspension?

But what the debate comes down to this: which design allows the most efficient use of power? Many top-level riders shy away from full-suspension because it feels slower. Ride a hardtail and full-suspension bike on the same trail, back to back, and you'll likely perceive the hardtail to be faster.

Why are Hardtails better?

The hardtail, with its lower weight and rigid rear end, is more efficient when your ride consists of road or smoother trails and plenty of pedalling.

Are Hardtails better for climbing?

Both, of course, have their pros and cons. Nothing can beat a hardtail for flat-out climbing speed and efficiency, but they suffer on the technical features found on modern cross country courses.

Is it worth upgrading my mountain bike?

If your bike is more than a few seasons old, it likely makes more sense to upgrade to something new that will offer better suspension performance, more current standards and bigger wheels. Kids on bikes and enjoying the great outdoors!

Can you add a shock to a hardtail?

You can but its not easy because you'll have to cut away the rear triangle and weld in brackets for the rear shock and pivots. Then you'll have to either make a rear arm or modify the removed rear triangle. After you've done all that you'll more than likely find it doesn't actually work very well if at all.

How do I upgrade my hardtail?

Can you add full suspension to a bike?

Certainly it can be done. Rather silly from a financial standpoint, however, since a new bike would almost certainly be cheaper. For the fork see: bicycles.stackexchange.com/questions/7472/… Adding a suspension fork, even if all clears, could change the geometry and handling.

Are hardtails more fun?

Hardtails are a little rougher, but that just adds to the sense of speed, even if you're not riding as fast. They can even be more fun on some trails: the kind of trail that isn't too rough and needs a bit of pedaling, a sweet jump trail, or a fresh secret trail where you're surfing loam all the way down.

Is a dual suspension worth it?

Why should I go for a Dual Suspension Mountain Bike? If you want to hit the local trails with your mate and have fun on the downhills, dual suspension mountain bikes will have you covered. It allows for bigger hits, steeper descents and won't punish you every time you make the wrong call at speed.

Why is mountain biking so hard?

Dirt and vegetation slow riders down compared to solid, high-traction pavement. Tire resistance and aerodynamics. Fat, squishy tires add resistance over skinny, high pressure road tires. Road bikes place riders into a more aero position and generally cut a narrower overall profile as well.

Can hardtail go trail?

As a type of mountain bike, hardtail bikes are used for cycling on many terrains and environments. Their versatile and resilient nature means they'll perform well in most places ride. Suitable areas for hardtail mountain biking include mountain trails, fire roads and pump tracks.

How fast can a hardtail go?

25-35 km/h = 15.5 to 21.7 mph. That is pretty fast average on a mountain bike. Fast enough to be on the verge of throwing the BS flag.

Are hardtails better for XC?

Hardtails will be the best performer when it comes to smooth XC trails but the increased traction and speed on bumpy terrain make full-suspension MTBs the best choice on technical XC trails. Practically on less technical XC races, hardtails will perform better while on the more technical ones FS MTBs will be faster.

Are hardtail mountain bikes dead?

Mountain biking begun on the slopes of Mt. Tamalpas during an era when suspension was only a dream for even the most imaginative minds. Riding a hardtail is in many ways like going back to the roots of mountain biking.

Why do people ride hardtails in winter?

As well as protecting your full suspension bike from winter abuse, a hardtail can often be the better bike to ride anyway. They're lighter, so easier to keep propelled in the slop. They don't hold on to muck as much, so they're easier to clean and don't clog up mid-ride.

Are hardtails uncomfortable?

The biggest drawback compared to full suspension bikes, as any rider can plainly see, is the rear end on a hardtail tends to bounce around, leading to discomfort and to a lack of tracking and control at speed.

How much easier is a full suspension mountain bike?

The two main advantages of a full suspension bike are comfort and traction. As the rear wheel conforms to the trail by tracking over the bumps the ride is much smoother and more comfortable on a full sus MTB. This is most noticeable when sitting in the saddle or when standing up in the pedals on very rough ground.

Are full suspension bikes safer?

Mountain bikers carrying some injury tension will always be more comfortable on a full-suspension bike on any terrain. For those riders who are healthier, wish to develop their skills, and explore more demanding trails, the full-suspension mountain bike is a much safer passage to progression.

Does suspension slow you down bike?

Slows the bike down on climbs – high-quality suspension usually has a lock-out option, when it doesn't slow the bike down too much, but even when locked, it's not completely rigid, and it's still heavier – which doesn't help with riding up hills.