Bike Mania Club

Downhill mountain (DH) biking is pure, gravity-assisted fun. Held at ski areas worldwide, DH races are individual time-trials (racing against the clock, riders go one at a time down the course). The terrain is mostly very steep and often extremely technical. There are many impossible-looking obstacles and drops that the riders jump, and the entire course is designed for high-speed descending. DH bikes are not designed for climbing!

DH riders wear motorcycle-style full-body protection. Even non-racers are encouraged to wear full body armor because of the danger of the sport. This is not a sport for beginning riders. DH requires superior bike handling skills, and above all, no fear. Being timid on a DH bike will only lead to crashes! In DH, speed is a friend, not an enemy – but it takes skill to control the bike on a fast, rocky, steep course.

DH has brought welcome business to ski areas during the summer. Many ski areas offer DH bike rentals and classes. DH bikes are transported to the top of the mountain by chairlift, and the riders descend back to the base on a variety of trails. Most ski areas have beginner, intermediate and advanced courses.

I have started to loose count of the number of times I've heard questions such as, "What type of mountain bike should I buy?" and "What is the difference between a full suspension mountain bike and a hardtail mountain bike?" One type of bike is not better than the other. The choice between the two should be made based on the riders' personal riding preferences, budget and physical capabilities. The FAQ below was compiled in order to help you with this all-important choice.
Question: What are full suspension bikes?
Answer: Also known as dual-suspension mountain bikes, these bikes have shock absorbers installed in both the front and rear tires.
Question: What are hardtail bikes?
Answer: Also known as front or single suspension mountain bikes, these bikes have shock absorbers installed in the front tire only.
Question: Which type of mountain bike tends to be faster?
Answer: Hardtail bikes tend to be faster and pedal easier in smooth terrain than full suspension mountain bikes because of the former's light weight and stiff rear end.
Question: Which bike is better at handling obstacles and rough terrain?
Answer: Because of the shock absorbers in both the front and the rear, full suspension bikes outperform hardtails in rough terrain. The suspension absorbs the impact of obstacles and allows for more traction to be transferred to the ground.
Question: Which bike is better at climbing hills?
Answer: Because of their light weight and easier handling, hardtail mountain bikes are better at climbing hills. However, full suspension mountain bikes do outperform hardtails on hills that are made up of rough terrain.
Question: Which bike is easier on the body?
Answer: F.S. bikes are more comfortable than their counterparts. It minimizes the stress on riders' arms and backs caused by vibrations and jolts during long rides.
Question: Which is more affordable?
Answer: Hardtail bikes are usally more affordable than full suspension bikes of similar quality.
Now you are equipped with the information you need to make the right choice. Happy Trailing!