Mountain bikes have evolved significantly since their popularization in the 1970s in the United States. Over the decades, their design and technology have advanced to adapt to different types of unpaved terrain, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists of all levels. However, this evolution has also generated some confusion when choosing the right bike, especially for those looking for their first MTB or who do not have a deep knowledge of the market.
One of the main dilemmas when choosing a mountain bike is the type of suspension. Is it better to go for a hardtail MTB or a full-suspension one? Each option has advantages depending on the type of routes and the rider's level. Another key factor is wheel size. Many cyclists wonder if it's always better to opt for larger wheels, like 29", or if 27.5" wheels are still a valid alternative.
Despite these doubts, mountain bike technology has also influenced road bikes, incorporating improvements in frame design, transmission, and suspension systems in models specifically for gravel or mixed routes. If you're still not sure which is the best option for you, keep reading. In this guide, we explain when it's best to choose a hardtail MTB, when to go for a full-suspension one, and what wheel size best suits your riding style.
Tell me where you ride and I'll tell you what suspension you need
On the market you can find bikes with different degrees of shock absorption. There are those with front suspension, full suspension, or no mechanical suspension at all. The latter are intended for very specific high-competition uses, as is the case with the Orbea Alma M-LTD. Normally, they tend to have front suspension or full suspension. The first are called hardtails or semi-hardtails. The second are known as full-suspension bikes.
Hardtail and semi-hardtail mountain bikes
They are bicycles that either lack suspension or have a front suspension system in the fork. Normally, the travel of this suspension is less than 120mm, since they are designed to ride at full speed on unpaved trails and sections without major slopes or pronounced obstacles. They stand out for their lightness, dynamism, and agility. It's not an urban legend that in this type of bicycle the force is transmitted more directly to the bottom bracket; it's simply physics—without anything more than an iron bar between the saddle and it, the force doesn't dissipate as it does when there are suspensions involved. That's why they are faster. In addition, they are cheaper than others because their manufacturing is simpler, as the frame is either a single mold or the rest of the tubes are welded. By dispensing with rear or central suspension, they have fewer elements and parts, which also means fewer breakdowns and less cost and work in terms of maintenance. However, if we are unlucky enough that our back or joints often complain, it is more advisable to opt for another, more comfortable model. In summary, rigid or semi-rigid mountain bikes are suitable for those looking for lively handling and fast riding on forest trail sections. They are less advisable for technical trails, alternating steep climbs and descents on very rocky sections, and riding long routes.
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Full Suspension Bicycles
The more suspension, the greater the ability to absorb irregularities in the terrain and the more comfortable the ride. That’s why full suspension bikes are more comfortable. They weigh more than rigid bikes and their price is also higher, but in return they are much more comfortable. If you are a regular mountain rider, you don’t need us to tell you that, after several hours of activity, you are able to recognize and feel even the smallest vibration that occurs under the wheels. With a full suspension bike, you may need an extra dose of effort, especially on climbs, because you’re carrying more parts than with a rigid bike, but your body will appreciate how comfortable they are.
The wheel dilemma
The two main fork standards on mountain bikes are those that allow for 26” and 29” wheels. The first size was the most common until a few years ago, when all mountain bikes used wheels of this size. But little by little, the 29” size has taken over, especially in mid and high-end ranges. Recently, an intermediate solution has emerged: 27.5” wheels. In this scenario, 26" bikes have been relegated to very low-end models or bikes with downhill geometry. Which one should you choose? Smaller wheels will make it easier to accelerate because they are lighter, and they will also provide more stiffness. In other words: you need less effort to make a full rotation. This is especially noticeable when the terrain slopes upward. Larger wheels, like the 29”, will be more stable, which is greatly appreciated on rough terrain. Additionally, larger wheels will make better use of inertia and offer greater traction. That is, they allow you to cover more distance with each pedal stroke. If you are going to ride mostly on flat sections or with little elevation change, 29" wheels will help you move forward with less effort. If you alternate between climbs and descents and speed is not your main concern, opt for 27.5" wheels.
Get advice from experts
There are great professionals who can help you make the best purchase according to the type of bike you are looking for, the budget you have set, and the size of bike you need. Don’t hesitate to ask about anything you consider important, because buying a bike is an investment you will enjoy for a long time. Finally, before purchasing, also consider the time you have available for regular maintenance and the space you have to store it, whether at home, in a storage room, or any other place.