Types according to suspension Hardtail Mountain Bikes The bike frames of Hardtail Mountain Bikes do not have rear suspension. Most models have a front suspension fork instead. Dual Or Full Suspension Mountain Bikes Dual Or Full Suspension Mountain Bikes feature both rear and front suspension forks. It is designed with a rear shock and linkage that allows the rear wheel to pivot. Soft Tail Mountain Bikes Soft Tail Mountain Bikes have bike frames with very little rear suspension. The suspension is activated by frame flex, not pivots. Types according to design Cross country (XC) mountain bikes Cross country mountain bikes are made with a very light frame and components. They usually weigh as light as nine kilograms or 20 pounds, or as heavy as 14 kilograms or 30 pounds. They are weaker than other types of mountain bikes because of this. Most models feature front and rear suspension with air shocks and forks. Models with no suspension make use of a rigid front fork to save weight and negate rough terrains. Enduro Mountain Bikes Enduro Mountain Bikes are heavier than cross country bikes. They are usually 14 to 16 kilograms or 30 to 35 pounds. They are ideal for ascending and descending steep and rough mountains. Freeride Mountain Bikes Freeride Mountain Bikes have greater front and rear suspension. They are lighter, smaller, and more versatile than Enduro Mountain Bikes. Most models feature steeply-angled frames that enhance maneuverability, making them ideal for uphill travel. Downhill Mountain Bikes Downhill Mountain Bikes are heavy, usually over 23 kilograms or 50 pounds. They usually have more than eight inches of suspension travel. Good models are very durable, have high gears, and are ideal for long distance travels and downhill riding. Trail Mountain Bikes Trail Mountain Bikes are used in bicycle trails. They do not have suspension. They are lightweight, usually weighing only 15 to 25 pounds. Their maneuverability is superior to other types of mountain bikes. Most Trail Mountain Bikes do not have seats as riders usually spend most of their time out of the saddle. Dirt Jumping Mountain Bikes Dirt Jumping Mountain Bikes are very strong bikes. The have three to six inches of front suspension. Most models have up to nine gears and make use of fast-rolling or slick tires. |