Mountain biking is an amazing sport for all skill levels. Not only does it get your heart rate up, but you also experience the great outdoors while having a blast! The full-suspension mountain bike was invented to make riding over rough terrain more comfortable and enjoyable. However, be warned—there are many full-suspension bikes out there, but not all of them are created equally.
A full-suspension mountain bike is one of the best investments you can make if you want to enjoy a full day on the trails. These bikes offer dual suspension, which means that they will be able to handle any terrain that comes your way, and with ease! So, if you want to find out which full-suspension mountain bike is right for you, keep reading.
Today, full-suspension bikes are quickly gaining popularity among bike enthusiasts. A full-suspension bike has a fork on the rear and front, which greatly affects the performance of the bike and the comfort of the rider. Compared to other bikes, a full suspension is more expensive and requires more maintenance. So what are the components of a dual-suspension mountain bike that makes it the better choice? Let’s take a closer look:
The suspension fork on the front and rear of the bike help absorb the shock from riding. Riding on rough roads and jagged trails can be hard on a rider’s back. This bike is perfect for people with lower back pains but who love going on extreme rides.
The dual fork suspension that absorbs the shock of bumpy rides allows less stress on the arms and back, letting you enjoy extreme terrains for a longer time.
The front and rear suspension make the riding smoother, even on rough terrains. In addition, the suspension fork allows better handling and traction, so you have full control of your bike. If you like rocky trails and mountain uphills with a bit of speed, a full-suspension bicycle will not disappoint.
If you like biking on different conditions and terrains to test your skill or simply enjoy the activity, a full-suspension bike can take you anywhere. Whether it's a cross-country ride, snowy and sandy terrain, uphill or downhill, you perform at your peak while experiencing a smooth and comfortable ride.
This bike is also friendly for beginners. You can enjoy the performance of a dual-suspension even if you are not a professional rider. Also, you get to level up your skills with this bike and might see yourself participating in extreme rides in no time.
There are a lot of good things you can say about a full-suspension mountain bike. However, if you are new to the hobby or looking to shift from your old bicycle to a full-suspension bike, some things may feel different on the first ride.
Some riders take time to adjust to the different feel and build of the bicycle but eventually, the performance of a full-suspension proves to be an overall great experience. Here are some elements that mark the difference between dual-suspension bicycles:
Lightweight bikes are very popular these days because of their convenience. But full-suspension bikes are heavier than other bicycles mainly because they have two suspension forks. When coming from aluminum or titanium mountain bikes, you may easily get tired when you switch to full suspension.
But the heavy bike rides can build your strength, give you better control on your bike, and have a more durable frame that absorbs shock and can withstand strong impacts.
The components of a full-suspension bike are a combination of top-quality materials. However, repairing and maintaining the overall build of your bike requires a professional touch unless you are knowledgeable on bike repairs.
Aside from maintenance and repair, a full-suspension bike's base price costs twice as much as a standard mountain bike. But with its monster performance, it is a wise investment.
Even with the most high-quality bike components and construction, it is still very important to learn how to take care of your 2-wheeled companion so that you can take it anywhere and for longer periods. Here are valuable tips you can use to maintain your bike and continue riding at maximum performance.
Going on intense rides on muddy terrains, passing through grime and water can make your bike dirty. It is important to wash your bike regularly, especially when covered in dirt after your rides. Don't let the muddy substances dry on your bike because it can affect the metal plating of your bicycle's frame.
Use a gentle spray with water and mild soap for washing your bikes. Using a pressure jet can peel off the plating of the frame. Using oils and lubricant for cleaning your bike can loosen the gears and bearings of your bike, so avoid this stuff too.
Wipe your bike chain regularly with a dry cloth to keep its shiny, silvery appearance. Also, remember to lubricate your chains every after ride. Only put the lubricant on the chain and not on the cassette because it can cause corrosion. WD40 bike chain lubricants are perfect for oiling up your bike chains.
Checking the tire pressure of your wheels is important, especially if you are going on a long ride. A flat tire can ruin your momentum. In addition, too much pressure can make the wheel explode, and not enough pressure can make your bike ride sloppy and slow. You can find the right tire pressure for your wheels embedded on the side of your bike tires.
Regularly check your brakes for their stopping power. After prolonged use, the brake pads can thin down and eliminate the friction with the wheels for proper stopping. Make sure to replace them before they are completely worn down to avoid accidents.
Small particles such as dirt, mud, and tiny rocks can penetrate the brake pads and affect stopping efficiency. So make sure to free your brake pads from these tiny particles.
Riding on long bumpy rides can loosen a few bolts in your bike. Bounce your bike a few times to feel if components are loose and tighten them to keep the parts of your bike secure while riding.
Bike stands keep your rides upright. Leaning your bicycles on the wall and hard surfaces can dent the metal body frame. Also, pedals are one of the most overlooked parts of the bike. Some bicycles come with plastic pedals, and some bicycle manufacturers give you the option to install your own.
Invest in a lightweight metal pedal made from aluminum and titanium. These pedals are less likely to wear down even after a long time and will not require you to replace them frequently, giving you significant savings after a long time.
Make it a habit to have your bikes checked by an expert at least once a year. Take your bikes to service shops for maintenance. Some components of your bikes require professional help. Service shops can maintain the excellent general health of your bike and help it last longer.
Owning a full-suspension bike is every cyclist's dream come true. It comes with an expensive price tag, but it will not disappoint you in the quality of the individual components and its monster performance. It is the perfect bike for beginners and professional riders alike. Choose the bike that fits your interest and skill level. Invest in a dual suspension bike and feel the difference of riding an all-star bicycle that catches up with your performance at every ride. There are several options for the best full-suspension mountain bike under $2500, and we hope this article was of great help.
