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And how much is too much?
Let’s talk “travel”—mountain bike suspension travel, that is.
One of the most crucial factors in selecting a mountain bike is determining the appropriate travel for your riding style. "Travel" refers to the amount of suspension movement a bike has, and it plays a significant role in how your bike handles different terrains. This blog will delve into the different types of mountain bike travel and how to choose the best one for your riding style.
Mountain bike travel is categorized by the suspension's range of motion, measured in millimeters (mm). It affects the bike’s performance, comfort, and control over various terrains. Travel can range from as little as 80mm to as much as 200mm, and each range is suited to different types of riding.
Short travel mountain bikes typically feature 80-120mm of suspension travel. These bikes are often referred to as cross-country (XC) or trail bikes.
Cross-country riding emphasizes speed, efficiency, and climbing. XC bikes are lightweight and agile, making them ideal for racing and long-distance rides on less technical trails. The shorter travel provides sufficient cushioning for small bumps and rough patches while maintaining efficiency for pedaling and climbing.
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Medium travel bikes, with 120-160mm of suspension, are versatile and well-suited for various riding styles. These bikes are often categorized as trail or all-mountain bikes.
Trail riding involves a mix of climbing and descending on moderately technical terrain. Trail bikes strike a balance between climbing efficiency and descent capability.
All-mountain riding is more demanding, involving rougher terrain and more technical descents. All-mountain bikes offer more travel than trail bikes, providing better control and comfort on aggressive trails.
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Long travel bikes feature 160-200mm of suspension travel and are designed for more aggressive and extreme riding styles. These bikes fall into the enduro and downhill categories.
Enduro riding involves racing on timed downhill stages with untimed uphill transitions. Enduro bikes are built to handle rough, technical descents while still being capable of climbing.
Downhill riding focuses exclusively on descending steep, technical, and challenging trails. Downhill bikes are heavy, robust, and designed to withstand the rigors of extreme terrain and high speeds.
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Selecting the appropriate mountain bike travel depends on your preferred riding style, the type of terrain you ride, and your skill level. Here are some key considerations:
Hey, it’s easy to get confused by all this. Don’t fret–come down to theDurango Outdoor Exchange, where our biking experts can explain it all in simple terms.
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