What suspension travel is ideal for your MTB? Guide to choosing the right one

What is suspension travel on a mountain bike?

The suspension travel refers to the maximum distance that the fork or shock can compress when absorbing an impact. It is measured in millimeters (mm) and defines how much capability the bike has to absorb bumps, roots, rocks, or jumps.

For example, a fork with 120 mm of travel can compress up to that amount before bottoming out.

Difference between front and rear suspension

• Front suspension: provided by the fork, and is responsible for absorbing impacts that come from the front wheel.
  
  

• Rear suspension: present only on full suspension bikes, improves traction and comfort on rough terrain.
  
  

How travel affects bike performance

The greater the travel, the more capability the bike has to absorb impacts, but it also loses some pedaling efficiency.
That’s why the ideal travel depends on the type of MTB you ride: shorter for efficiency, longer for control and stability.

Types of suspension on MTB

Front suspension (fork)

This is the most common system. All MTBs, except for some rigid models of gravel or XC, include a front fork with between 80 and 180 mm of travel.

Rear suspension (shock)

Present on full suspension MTBs, it improves comfort and control, especially on descents or very rough terrain.

Hardtail vs full suspension bikes

• Hardtails: only have front suspension. They are lighter, more efficient, and more affordable.
  
  

• Full suspension: they offer greater comfort and traction, but are a bit heavier and require more maintenance.
  

How travel affects performance

Control and impact absorption

Longer travel absorbs hard hits better, but can create a feeling of less precision on climbs or flat sections.

Weight and pedaling efficiency

Long suspension adds weight and can “sag” more while pedaling, reducing efficiency. Short travel is stiffer and allows better transmit the power.

Comfort on long routes

If you do routes of several hours or mixed terrain, a medium travel (120-140 mm) offers the ideal balance between performance and comfort.

Stability on descents

The greater the travel, the more absorption and control on fast or technical descents. That's why enduro and downhill bikes use suspensions of more than 160 mm.

How much travel you need according to your MTB discipline

Tuvalum Tip: if you do varied routes and want an “all-round” bike, the 130-150 mm range is the perfect balance point.

How to properly adjust your MTB suspension

Air pressure (SAG)

The SAG is the amount of travel the suspension sags when you get on the bike.
It should be set to 20-30% of total travel depending on the type of use: less for XC, more for enduro or downhill.

Rebound and compression

• Rebound: controls the speed at which the suspension returns to its original position.
  
  

• Compression: regulates how much the suspension stiffens against impacts.
  A correct adjustment prevents the bike from “bouncing” too much or sinking excessively.
  
  

Adjustments according to weight and riding style

Each brand recommends specific pressures according to the rider's weight cyclist. Adjust the fork and shock according to the manufacturer's charts and check the pressure frequently.

Suspension maintenance

• Frequent cleaning after every ride.
  
  

• Seal inspection every 50 hours of use.
  
  

• Full internal maintenance every 100-150 hours or once a year.
  

Recommended MTB travel for XC, Trail, Enduro and Downhill

The ideal suspension travel depends on how and where you ride your bike:

• XC: 80-120 mm for lightness and efficiency.
  
  

• Trail/All Mountain: 120-150 mm for balance and versatility.
  
  

• Enduro: 150-180 mm for control and safety on descents.
  
  

• Downhill: more than 180 mm for maximum absorption.
  
  

If you're looking for an MTB that can handle all types of terrain, a trail with 130-140 mm of travel is the most versatile option.

At Tuvalum, you'll find mountain bikes inspected, certified, and guaranteed, with all travels and setups so you can choose the one that best suits your style.