The Different Types of Mountain Bikes

There are basically two types of mountain bikes: the so-called
hardtail and the dual suspension. There are also, in general, two
types of mountain biking: downhill riding and cross country
riding. This article describes which type of mountain bike is
more suitable for the type of mountain biking that a rider might
participate in.

Cross Country Mountain Biking

Cross country mountain bike riding is simply riding a trail. The
rider negotiates the terrain whether it requires climbing a steep
incline or maneuvering the mountain bike down a long descent.
Cross country bikes are typically lightweight and are built for
fast trail riding. Quality cross country bikes have at least
front suspension to help absorb the bumps on a rough trail.

Many bike manufacturers are creating so-called all-mountain
bikes, or trail bikes, which have dual suspension. These types of
bikes are great for long, casual or sporty rides on mountainous
trails. The suspension is enough to help absorb the typical trail
shock but not beefy enough to be a true downhill racing rig.

The only problem with full-suspension is the extra weight it adds
to the bike making it more difficult to ascend hills. There are
not many cross country racers riding full suspension, especially
on very mountainous courses. However, sport riders tend to opt
for comfort over the weight advantages.

Downhill Mountain Biking

Downhill mountain biking is simply riding your mountain bike down
the hill or mountain. Much of the terrain on downhill courses are
extreme so it requires a beefier cycling rig to manage the
demands of the trail. The mountain bikes used are very durable
and heavy compared to cross-country bikes. They have long travel
front and rear suspension to absorb the bumps and drops from the
obstacles on the downhill course.

Many ski resorts open their slopes to downhill mountain bikes in
the off-season. The riders use the ski lifts to transport
themselves and their bikes to the top of the slopes and then
speed down the hill at maximum speeds. Downhill mountain biking
requires more safety than typical cross-country riding. Downhill
riders will typically wear a full face motorcycle style helmet as
well as body armor, elbow and knee pads.

Best of Both Rides

Many mountain bike riders own both a downhill and cross-country
mountain bike. If you enjoy both disciplines there is no way
around it. It would be too difficult to try to ride your
cross-country bike down a downhill course. You may in fact hurt
yourself or damage your bike. Conversely riding a 40 pound dual
suspension mountain bike up a mountain may not be very enjoyable
either. The lightweight of a cross-country bike may be more
advantageous. Manufacturers are building all-mountain bikes to
try to serve both disciplines. The idea is to create a
lightweight machine with dual suspension and that are durable for
those moderate downhill trails.

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