Full Suspension vs Hardtail Mountain Bikes
Both are mountain bikes, the difference is the rear shock. A hardtail has front suspension only. A full suspension bike has both a front fork and a rear shock. The rear shock adds comfort and control on rough trails but it adds weight and a few service items.
Choose Hardtail If
- You ride smoother trails
- You want a lighter bike
- You prefer simpler maintenance
- You want a lower price point
Choose Full Suspension If
- You ride rougher terrain
- You want more comfort
- You need more control on descents
- You ride rocks, roots, drops or technical trails
Find the Right Full Suspension Mountain Bike by Travel
Suspension travel is the first decision. Travel measures how far the fork and rear shock compress, in millimeters. More travel handles bigger hits and steeper ground. Less travel keeps the bike lighter and quicker on climbs.
Short Travel - Cross Country & Down-Country
Built for speed, climbing and distance. Light frames, snappy pedaling and efficient on smoother singletrack. Best for race days, long rides and riders who climb more than they descend.
Mid Travel - Trail
The middle ground and the smartest start for most buyers. Climbs well, descends with control, handles roots and rock gardens without blowing through travel.
Long Travel - Enduro
Slacker geometry up front and steeper at the seat tube. More confidence on aggressive descents without turning the bike into a sled on climbs. For riders pushing harder on rougher terrain who still pedal full trail loops.
Mixed Wheel (MX / Mullet)
A 29" front wheel paired with a 27.5" rear. The bigger front rolls over obstacles; the smaller rear tightens corners and adds a playful feel. Common on enduro builds. Available as a wheel size filter in the Colorado Cyclist collection.
Not sure where you land? Start with Trail. It's the most forgiving across the widest range of real-world riding.
Top Full Suspension Mountain Bike Brands at Colorado Cyclist
After travel, brand is the next decision. It shapes suspension design, geometry and how the bike rides. Yeti is the most represented brand here, running Switch Infinity suspension that reduces pedal bob without losing small-bump sensitivity. Kona builds playful trail and XC bikes, while Norco takes a geometry-first approach with long reach and active suspension. Marin hits price points below premium without giving up geometry or specs and Santa Cruz brings carbon frames with VPP suspension and strong resale value. GT Bikes, Fuji, Ibis, Intense and Niner also appear in the collection. Use the brand filter to narrow the list.
Fit and Features to Consider
Once travel and brand are settled, the remaining filters fine-tune the ride. Use them to compare bikes by handling, weight and price.
Wheel Size
Most full suspension bikes here run 29" wheels - they roll over obstacles with less effort and hold momentum on climbs. MX builds (29" front, 27.5" rear) add corner agility for enduro riding. 27.5" is rare in the current lineup but suits shorter riders or anyone wanting a more playful feel.
Frame Size
The collection spans X-Small to 2X-Large. Sizing affects reach, standover and how you move on the bike in technical terrain. Between sizes? Riders who prioritize control tend to size down. Riders who prioritize speed stability tend to size up.
Frame Material
Aluminum is strong, dependable and keeps the bike more affordable. Carbon fiber is for riders who want less weight and a firmer ride feel and are comfortable paying more for it.
Why Buy a Full Suspension Mountain Bike from Colorado Cyclist
Colorado Cyclist carries a broad range of full suspension mountain bikes across trusted brands, travel options, wheel sizes and frame sizes from X-Small to 2X-Large. You get expert rider support, fast shipping, easy returns and fit help before and after purchase.
Before your first ride, check the gear that makes trail days safer and easier — a well-fitted MTB helmet, a shock pump to set sag properly and reliable bike tires.
FAQs About Full Suspension MTBs
Do full suspension bikes climb well?
Modern full suspension bikes climb better than many riders expect. The rear shock helps the back wheel stay connected to uneven ground.
What does MX mean on a full suspension mountain bike?
MX (also called "mullet") pairs a 29" front wheel with a 27.5" rear. The bigger front rolls over obstacles; the smaller rear tightens corners and adds a playful feel. Common on enduro.
Can I return a full suspension mountain bike if it doesn't fit?
Yes. Colorado Cyclist offers a 90-day return window but bikes must be unassembled and unridden to qualify, in their original packaging. If you're between sizes or unsure about geometry, contact the team before ordering. See the full returns policy for details..
Are full suspension bikes harder to maintain?
They need more care than hardtails since they have a rear shock and more moving parts. Regular cleaning, bolt checks, suspension service and drivetrain care help keep the bike running well.
How long does shipping take for full suspension bikes from Colorado Cyclist?
Riders close to Colorado see the quickest delivery and Next Day or Two-Day shipping is available at checkout. Full details on the shipping policy page.
