Full Suspension Mountain Bike Frames
A mountain bike is that which is meant for cycling on conditions other than city roads. This includes riding conditions that are rough and rocky. These bikes are more sturdy than ordinary bikes. They have bigger tyre rims, front and rear suspension and many gears to facilitate the rider.
These mountain bike frames became popular during the 90s. Initially the full suspension frames that came out were bulky and made riding the bike difficult. There were problems with the brakes and a lot of effort was required while riding up hill. These problems were solved by Mert Lawwil. He designed full suspension mountain bike frames, known as Gary Fisher RS – 1. It had an A arm suspension design and four- bar linkage which was a new concept for full suspension mountain bikes of the time. Certain problems in the bike were then rectified by Horst Leitner, who came out with a bike known as Horst Link. His company, AMP, was involved in Research and manufacture of Mountain Bikes. AMP manufactured Full Suspension Mountain Bikes for about 10 years.
Full Suspension MTB – Made for Downhill ..
For mountainous downhill terrain, full suspension bikes are the best option. These bikes are preferred by professionals
due to the front and rear suspension in the entire body frame. The bike is meant for heavy duty use on the most rough terrain.
Bikes with a full suspension are meant for heavy duty usage. The rear suspension is especially to absorb the bumps that are associated with rugged terrain. They make it easier for the rider to pedal and control the bike.
A full suspension frame is more expensive than say, a hardtail bike. The rear suspension also makes the bike heavy. This additional weight on the bike frame makes it more difficult while climbing uphill and consumes more energy of the rider.
Full Suspension – Worth its weight (well not literally)..
Although these are disadvantages of the full suspension mountain bikes, the many advantages that outweigh the cons. The bike is very comfortable while riding and when riding downhill, the bike frame works very well. The bike is just as good on rough terrain as on the pavements. The rider also has an option to lock out the full suspension.
The full suspension bike also has to oiled and serviced regularly especially the rear suspension. Is this is not done, the bike’s chain may break unexpectedly.
The full suspension bike frame may be made up of various materials, like aluminium, carbon fibre, steel and titanium. Titanium frames are resistant to rust and corrosion. They are polished, not painted. The lighter the material of the frame, greater the expense of the bike. The rear derailleur hanger is replaceable and can be replaced easily when required. The brakes on the bike are either disk brakes or liner-pull rim brakes. The best option for full suspension mountain bikes is fully hydraulic disc brakes. These brakes are good during muddy and rainy conditions.
Special full suspension mountain bike frames for women are available. They have a smaller, lighter frame and a wider saddle.
