The debate between dual suspension mountain bikes and hardtail mountain bikes has been raging since the first full suspension mountain bike appeared.

Do you want to know which bike is the best … a full suspension mountain bike or a hardtail?

To put it simply the answer is both. Ok, ok, let me explain…

Hardtail mountain bikes and dual-suspension mountain bikes are both excellent at what they are designed for.

Hardtail bikes are the best… if…

• You are riding smooth single track and need accurate response
• You need good climbing ability
• You want a lighter bike
• You want pedalling efficiency (and to conserve your own energy)
• If you are a XC racer who is after the biggest weight saving
• You want a bike that is easier to maintain and keep in good working order
• Are a dirt jumper who wants better pump off of jumps

Full Suspension bikes are the best… if…

• You ride downhill
• Go off jumps
• Suffer from saddle-ass
• Ride in rough terrain
• Want an all round bike with less limitations
• Want a smoother ride on the trail
• Want a more comfortable bike

So what should you do?

Full suspension and hardtail bikes are made for different purposes so you should get whatever you want but get it for the right reasons! Firstly, you need to think about what sort of riding you want to do. Secondly, you need to look at where you go riding. These 2 pieces of information will allow you to discover which is right for you, hardtail or dual suspension.