Basket
In the world of cycling, full-suspension mountain bikes are gaining ground! While they share the market with semi-suspended mountain bikes, these frames are becoming more and more popular. Let's face it, their additional rear suspension, the shock absorber, is a great technology that brings more comfort and precision in riding. How it works, kinematics, advantages and disadvantages... Ekoï offers you a focus on the full suspension mountain bike!
What are the characteristics of a suspension frame?
What is a fully suspended mountain bike? You should know that "full" are much more than just bikes with two wheels, two pedals and handlebars. They are true gems of technology with a double damping mechanism, perfected over the decades and advances in cycling equipment.
A suspension frame consists of two components designed to absorb the irregularities of the terrain on which the rider rides:
- the front suspension, which is the suspension fork;
- the rear suspension, commonly known as the ATV shock absorber.
Why choose an all-suspension ATV?
If you've ever ridden steep terrain on a rigid ATV, your butt, arms and hands probably still remember it. Today, the majority of mountain bikes are equipped with front suspension to prevent, let alone put your body through such trauma. These are semi-rigid mountain bikes.
The full-suspension mountain bike offers to go further in the search for comfort and offers an answer to the requirements imposed by certain mountain bike disciplines. Its use is ideal on heavily hilly trails: such a machine swallows all obstacles without difficulty!
His advantages are multiple:
- Comfortable and serene rides: the rear suspension maximizes shock absorption, erasing the roughness of the ground. You can ride safely without worrying about hurting your back.
- Infinite exploration possibilities: the dual damping system enhances the ATV's versatility to allow the discovery of new playgrounds that were previously difficult to access on a semi-rigid ATV. Enough to quench one's thirst for adventure!"
- Easy riding: the shock absorber offers incredible traction and remarkable grip on the ground in all circumstances.
- Demonstrated performance: the suspended mountain bike will be your best riding companion on the technical and brittle trails it excels on. Fearsome efficiency and sensations will inevitably be at the meeting.
What are the disadvantages with the full suspension mountain bike?
While it has many advantages, the full-suspension mountain bike is not necessarily the preferred alternative for mountain bikers. The development of this machine involves advanced technology that is expensive and is reflected in the sales price. This high price tag is a first hurdle for tight budgets.
In addition, the extra components contained in the damping system make the ATV heavier. This added weight may dampen the spirits of some riders who will need to put in more effort on climbs. Finally, the rear suspension requires rigorous maintenance that can add up to a nice chunk of change when a part needs to be replaced (e.g. wheel bearings).
How does an all-suspension ATV work?
Now that you know a little more about what an all-suspension ATV is, let's delve into more detail about suspension architecture and its mechanics.
Suspensions consist of an assembly of two components:
- The air (air) or coil spring: it gathers the energy generated during compression, then releases it by returning to its original shape. This is known as the spring effect.
- The hydraulic damper: its role is to control the depression and rebound of the spring through the circulation of rolling oil through a piston.
On the front suspension, there is also the frame that conditions the rigidity of the fork. This organ includes the pivot, the tee, the plungers and the sleeves that connect it to the suspended frame.
What is the kinematics of a rear suspension.
The operation of a full-suspension ATV revolves around the deformation of the frame that allows the rear wheel to move and absorb the roughness of the terrain. The shock absorber thus uncouples the rear wheel from the bike. This complex device and related movements are referred to as kinematics.
There are three main families of rear suspension kinematics:
- the monopivots;
- the four pivot points;
- the virtual pivot points;
The single-pivot models are the simplest to design and the most financially accessible. They are perfect for taking pleasure in a leisurely practice. The other two kinematics are more advanced and reserved for demanding riders who aim for high-speed performance.
Which mountain bike to choose: semi-rigid or full suspension?
Semi-stiff mountain bikes (featuring a single front suspension with a rigid frame) are aimed at beginners or occasional riders for occasional touring-type escapades. Less expensive and lighter than the full-suspension version, the semi-rigid is ideal on large paths with low or medium relief. Its responsiveness is also prized by cross-country racers.
Riders who are eager to get out on the trails will find it a great choice
Riders eager for thrills, meanwhile, will turn to a full-suspension mountain bike. This type of bike is a wise choice for all mountain, enduro and downhill mountain bike trips on mountainous trails and rough terrain littered with roots, rocks and bumps. It will ensure maximum comfort and optimized control of your machine. Similarly, XC marathon race participants ride these dual-suspension, long-distance performance frames for their competitions.
How to properly set up your suspensions.
If you invest in a full-suspension mountain bike, you'll need to learn how to manage your suspension settings to get the most out of your rides, namely travel, damping and reaction time.
This adjustment varies according to the weight of the mountain biker and his practice. A few simple manipulations and calculations allow for an optimal adjustment of the rear and front suspensions. Don't hesitate to ask the seller for a hand or get in touch with a professional if you need help.
You now know all about the full-suspension ATV! Want to learn more about the world of mountain biking? Check out all our tips on how to properly choose your mountain bike, your mountain bike tires or even the right mountain bike size.
