Own Both Safe and Affordable: Best Full Suspension Mountain Bikes
However, a full suspension mountain bike has certain distinctive features that give it the edge over its hardtail counterpart.
When it comes to tackling those tough, technical, rocky and difficult terrains, you would want a robust and performance oriented bike as your main weapon.
A full suspension mountain offers just that. These are the types of terrains that full suspension mountain bikes are built for.
So, what is a full suspension mountain bike?
Full suspension bikes are arguably the most popular mountain bikes available, thanks to the high level of efficiency they offer.
We’ve witnessed dramatic advances in fork and frame technology, reduced weight and cutting-edge rear shock function and incredible suspension designs.
All these features make a typical suspension bike a rider’s ultimate choice.
Hardtail mountain bikes feature a solid frame and usually have a suspension fork on the front.
A full suspension mountain bike has the same fork at the front.
But comes equipped with a frame that consists of two parts; a rear triangle and front triangle, which are joined by pivots.
This functionality enables the two sections to move independently, and the rate of the movement is controlled by a shock absorber.
Something to note is that full suspension mountain bikes feature shock absorbers at both rear and front.
And this offers incredible varying amounts of suspension travel, allowing you to tackle obstacles and bumps with ease.
What’s more, this provides a relatively smoother ride, increased control and improved handling.
Typically, the main purpose of a full suspension bike is to allow bikers ride through rough and tough terrain with minimal effort.
If pedaling through those rock gardens full of plant roots is your idea of a fun biking, then you need a full suspension bike at your disposal.
The combination of rear and front suspension creates a smoother and comfortable ride with improved traction and handling.
And this translates to the amazing amount of fun on rough terrains.
Advantages of full suspension mountain bikes?
Improved comfort
Mountain biking is usually a rough, tough and demanding sport. You not only need to be at your best physically, but you also need high-end equipment at your disposal.
A full suspension mountain bike is designed to help you handle all types of rough landscapes while offering unrivaled levels of comfort.
With a full suspension, you will have a smoother ride due to both front and rear suspension systems that absorb the shock of rugged terrain.
A comfortable ride means reduced fatigue, more fun, which in turn, helps you to ride relatively faster and for longer periods.
Increased speed with much more control
Though you’ll probably need marginally more effort during your uphill sections, you’ll ride with speed on your downhill stretches on a full suspension mountain bike.
What’s more, full suspension bikes are excellent at absorbing bumps and you can equally carry more speed even through those technical sections of the trail than you would achieve if you were using a hardtail bike.
Even better, the rear suspension allows you to have complete control over your bike, even at breakneck speeds!
Increased traction levels
Bearing in mind that the double suspension helps to keep your wheels on the ground, bikers will likely enjoy a lot more traction over tough terrains with these types of bikes.
And with more traction, you’ll be able to negotiate sharp bends faster and with more stability as well. Simply put, more traction, fewer spills.
Non-impact jumps
Jumps are arguably one of the best experiences of a good trail riding. However, landings, especially on uneven ground can be a tricky prospect.
This is where full suspension mountain bikes come to your rescue.
They have the rare capacity to absorb much of the impact of your landing, ensuring that you are not only comfortable but fully under control.
You don’t always get this from a hardtail mountain bike.
It means more fun
With your modern full suspension mountain bike, mountain riding will be enjoyable, full of fun and an experience not to forget.
You’ll ride for longer distances without getting fatigued. It also means you’ll be able to tackle all the tough terrains at high speeds and with minimal effort.
A full suspension mountain bike is all you need to conquer those rugged and difficult terrains.
Disadvantages of full suspension mountain bikes?
They can be costly
This is arguably their main drawback. This implies that you’ll basically have to dig deep into your pocket to acquire a good suspension mountain bike.
They require more maintenance
Of course, the added complexity comes at the cost of durability.
There are lots of service-prone components in suspension bike including the rear and front shock absorbers and the pivot bearings.
To keep your mountain in a tip-top condition, you would need to service and maintain it on a regular basis.
Of course, this adds up to the overall cost of having one.
They can be relatively heavy
Because of the addition of extra features and components, full suspension bikes can be heavier.
As a result these bikes might not be good for commuting or biking in areas you will need to lift it or carry it, even short distances.
Features to look for when buying a full suspension mountain bike?
Though full suspension mountain bikes offer more or less the same level of performance, there are a few features that set them apart.
You should consider these three features when buying your first full suspension mountain bike:
Weight
As an amateur, the prospect of riding a bulky full suspension mountain bike can potentially present a challenge.
Generally, full suspension bikes will be heavier than their hardtail cousins.
Of course, this is as a result of the extra rear shock, tubes, and pivots which all unavoidably come with added weight.
Unless you are highly experienced, you’ll need a lighter bike for easier cycling uphill.
Remember that you will have to pay more for a lighter full suspension bike!
Easily Adjustable seat posts
This is another essential feature you must consider.
Adjustable seat posts boast a telescopic mechanism which allows for easy dropping and raising of the seat as you ride.
It is a critical feature, especially if you plan to ride on trails with technical descents interspersed with climbs.
It allows you to instantly raise your seat for climbs, and then instantly lower it for added speed and comfort on flatter terrain.
What should be the frame component of your full suspension MTB?
Regardless of the type of your bike, you can’t overlook the frame element on any mountain bike.
This is because the usability, design and the weight of your mountain largely depend on this.
A significant number of entry products are made of aluminum, which is not only versatile framing material but comfortable to ride as well.
On the other hand, carbon frame bikes are relatively light but not as stronger and durable as their aluminum counterparts.
The stiffness to weight ratio of carbon fiber is what sets it apart.
As a result, it is the most universally chosen material for mountain bike in the professional ranks.
Before carbon fiber and aluminum, steel was the most preferred choice for mountain bikes.
Steel is relatively inexpensive and strong but weighs more than both carbon fiber and aluminum frames.
Finally, titanium is rarely used in average full suspension mountain bikes because of its high cost.
It is super lightweight, not susceptible to corrosion like steel and equally highly durable.
It takes a lot to break down or damage titanium and this is why people often choose it as a premium, luxury and lifetime investment.
Our best picks for the best full suspension mountain bike under 1000 dollars.
North woods Full Suspension Aluminum Mountain Bike
The highlights of this innovative mountain bike are its glossy design, color choices, lightweight sturdy frame and wheel rims, and a high-end suspension system.
One thing to note is that this is a highly versatile model, and is perfect for both boys and girls who have a passion for mountain biking.
As such, is designed with a beginner mountain biker in mind, offering simplicity, durability, and user-friendliness.
It’s what you need to kick-start your mountain biking journey. Aluminum is usually revered for its unrivaled durability and lightweight design.
The North Woods full suspension mountain bike weighs just 42 pounds, which is quite light indeed.
What’s even more impressive is that the lightness doesn’t compromise the feel of the bike, speed or overall performance.
Regarding the suspension system, the front is powered by a 50mm travel steel crown fork.
Steel offers the system more protection against wear and tear which comes from harsh terrains.
The rear suspension acts primarily as a shock absorber, ensuring you remain as comfortable as possible during your entire ride.
The North Woods comes equipped with dual linear pull brakes that provide stellar stopping motion whenever necessary in whatever type of terrain the rider is in.
It boasts 24-inch tires which are wide and large enough to offer the much-needed traction.
Young girls and boys will definitely feel safe and secure with this bike in their ranks.
It has 21-speed levels and equally uses speed twist shifters which guarantees a smooth transition.
The rear derailleur comes from the industry leader Shimano, so you won’t worry about both durability and performance.
If you have a teen who’s willing to conquer the trails, this is the best gift for her.
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Protocol Schwinn 1.0 Men’s full suspension Mountain Bike 26inch Wheels
The Protocol boasts an aluminum full suspension frame, and this implies that it is lightweight and very much capable of absorbing all the ruts and bumps you’ll encounter on the trail.
Its front shock absorber handles all the bumps up front, so your shoulders and arms can concentrate on other things!
Great for climbs
It brings on board 24 speeds with Shimano EZ-Fire shifters and a Shimano rear Altus derailleur.
This allows you to climb even some of the toughest and steepest hills around.
The rear alloy linear pull brake and the Promax front disc brake function holistically to give you confidence since you’ll be able to stop instantly if need be.
The 26-inch wheels are robust and large enough to tackle nearly all types of terrains, ranging from dusty, rugged, bumpy and dirty trail surfaces.
Equally, the Arrow black anodized alloy rims at its disposal are typically designed for tough conditions.
The Shimano EF-50 trigger shifters deliver 24 varied speeds while the front disc and rear linear brake systems allow you to stop your bike dependably.
This bike comes covered with a one year warranty, and this only confirms that the Protocol is a premium quality equipment worthy of every penny spent on it.
Overall, the Protocol is one of the very few best full suspension mountain bikes under 1000 dollars.
It gives you a solid ride and the much-needed confidence to get out and try something new.
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Schwinn 29 Inch Wheel S29 Full Suspension Men’s Mountain Bike
Finding one would mean you’ll have to part with a lot of your cash which many of us may not afford altogether.
However, the Schwinn full suspension mountain not only comes equipped with everything you would want from a top-notch mountain bike, but is equally a pocket-friendly device.
Stability and Control
It has huge 29-inch tires that incredibly enhance its performance.
The large wheels increase both traction force and power, allowing the rider to seamlessly navigate through some of the toughest terrains.
The disk brakes are efficient enough to give you much greater control of your bike and assure you of your overall safety as you either cycle uphill or roll downhill.
Every biker would find the suspension forks quite useful, because they provide lots of comforts, especially when traversing uneven road surfaces.
If you are craving for durability, you are equally covered.
The bike boasts of a rugged and robust frame which comprises a strong aluminum bar which connects the saddle to the handlebar.
This makes it more comfortable and stable to ride as well. The adjustable saddle sits pretty on the bike, offering a comfortable sitting position for riders of all sizes.
Finally, it equipped with 21-speed trigger shifters which work holistically with the large tires to provide a great power output in terms of momentum and speed.
The Schwinn thoroughly deserves its spot as one of the best full suspension mountain bikes under 1000 dollars.
View On Amazon.comYou can check also the best mountain bikes under 1000 dollars here: 5 Best Mountain Bike Under 1000
Recoil Diamondback Bicycles 29er Complete Mountain Bike Full Suspension
It features an aluminum alloy full suspension 29er frame which is not only durable, but guarantees your safety.
For optimal speed, the bike has Shimano 24 speed drivetrain which provides reputable shifting through 24 gears.
This gives it improved ability to ride through stubborn climbs and rugged terrain.
Lightweight but durable
The hand-built four-inch travel aluminum alloy full suspension frame is super strong and durable.
It has an optimized single pivot with sealed cartridge bearings for maintenance-free, smooth and durable performance.
The Suntour SR XCT 100mm suspension fork coupled with the rear coil shock allows you to go over all types of terrain.
What’s more, the Shimano 8-speed drivetrain at its disposal provides reliable shifting whereas the Tektro mechanical disk brake offers instant great stopping power.
The overall design is lightweight, durable and glossy. It has 27.5-inch wheels which are large enough to provide smooth riding experience, comfort, and stability.
Overall, it is a fantastic mountain bike that comes packed with lots of useful features.
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A few tips on how to use and maintain your full suspension MTB
You can extend the lifespan of suspension by having regular service performed by a qualified suspension expert.
It is highly recommended that if you ride more regularly, you should at least have your bike serviced after every a hundred hours of riding time.
Routine maintenance may also prolong the life of your frame irrespective of the material. More tips include:
- It is critical to lube the shock and fork using only your manufacturer’s recommended oils. Other types of lubes can potentially eat through seals and harm your bike’s internal parts.
- Always set the right amount of sag. Sag is how much your suspension compresses with just your weight on the bike. Adjust the air pressure to achieve the recommended amount of sag ideal for both rear and front suspension. Sag allows the wheels to follow undulations in the ground with efficiency. More sag means a softer ride. Follow your manual for the correct sag settings.
- Always clean the stanchions as well as around the fork and shock seals.
- Use your rebound adjustment accordingly. When you are on a bumpy road, you want the suspension to revert to neutral as quickly as possible. This is what a rebound adjustment does. Thankfully, your user manual contains all the instructions regarding how to set your rebound accordingly.
Arguably most important, especially for first time riders, go slow on your first few rides. Riding a full suspension is fun and enjoyable but can be tricky as well.
Take it easy on your first ride and gradually adjust your speed after you’ve mastered the basics, and everything will just be fine.
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