The choice between the two bikes ultimately depends on what you want to do with the mountain bike. Do you prefer to look for flatter trails and perhaps ride on the road, or do you prefer rougher terrain with lots of obstacles?
HARDTAIL OR FULL SUSPENSION: THE BIG DIFFERENCE
The difference between a hardtail mountain bike and a full suspension mountain bike lies in the suspension. The suspension on the bike ensures that shocks are well absorbed. A suitable suspension is therefore very important and makes a mountain bike ride a lot more comfortable. A full suspension mountain bike, also known as a 'full', has both front and rear suspension. A hardtail is generally equipped with a suspension fork, but has no rear suspension.
THE ADVANTAGES OF A HARDTAIL MOUNTAIN BIKE
The more suspension, the better? This is not always true. A hardtail mountain bike has a number of advantages over a full suspension. Because the construction of a hardtail mountain bike is stiffer, your pedalling power is transmitted directly to the rear wheel. This ensures that cycling on (reasonably) flat surfaces requires less energy. This makes the hardtail perfectly suited for Dutch roads and trails. In addition, the hardtail has a simpler construction and can break less. This makes the bike reliable and cheaper to buy than a full suspension.
The advantages of a hardtail in brief:
- Pedalling is easier
- Simple construction
- Cheaper to buy
- Often equipped with suspension fork
- Suitable for less rough or flat terrain
THE ADVANTAGES OF A FULL SUSPENSION
But the full suspension also offers a number of advantages. Due to the suspension at the rear, a full suspension can absorb big impacts more easily. As a result, the wheels keep better contact with the ground and the bike reacts more predictably to obstacles such as rocks and roots. This makes a ride in rougher terrain a lot more comfortable and is excellent for this. However, climbing does require a bit more energy, as some of your pedalling power disappears into the suspension. Fortunately, you can lock the rear suspension on many full suspension bikes.
The advantages of a full suspension in a nutshell:
- Equipped with both front and rear suspension
- Obstacles are easier to negotiate
- The bike reacts more predictably
- More grip
- Suitable for rougher terrain
WHICH MOUNTAIN BIKE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Now that we know exactly what rear suspension does, it's time to decide. Will you go for a full or a hardtail mountain bike? This mainly depends on what you want to use the bike for. Are you a beginner or do you want to ride mainly on flat or reasonably flat ground? Then a hardtail mountain bike is a good choice: cheap, reliable and very suitable for Dutch trails or paved roads. Are you looking for more of a challenge and is rougher terrain not a problem for you? A full suspension mountain bike will make sure you can handle all obstacles.
Already know which type of mountain bike is perfect for you? Check out our hardtail mountain bikes or our full suspension mountain bikes. Would you like more advice on the choice between a hardtail or a full? Then drop by one of our CUBE Stores. Our bike experts will be happy to help you make the right choice.