It wasn’t too long ago that bicycles were simple modes of transportation used by children to travel in their neighborhoods.  However, today bicycles are not just used by children, but by adults and for a variety of reasons. 

Generally, early day bikes were constructed using two wheels, pedals, gears connected by a chain, seat, handlebars, etc.  However, depending upon the need of the individual, there are many modifications available to bicycle enthusiasts.  Bicycles can be used for touring, racing, vigorous exercising, etc.

One additional sporting activity that utilizes a ruggedly constructed bicycle is mountain biking.  Typically a mountain bike is made from a heavily constructed frame, equipped with multiple gears, special brakes and fatter wheels.

Another unique feature found on mountain bikes is suspension equipment.  Before purchasing a mountain bike it is important to understand the advantages of having bicycles with built-in suspension and the difference between a single and a dual- suspension mountain bike.

Advantages Of Suspension Built Bikes

Before considering the purchase of a dual-suspension mountain bike or one with single suspension, it is important to understand the advantages that suspension equipment brings.  Understanding those advantages will help the customer in purchasing the right bike to meet the safety needs of the biker.

The purpose of suspension equipment being built on to mountain bikes offers a number of safety factors.  The first factor is that the wheel remains in contact with the ground through a quality suspension feature.  This is due to the fact that the spring mechanism moves up and down.  This increased traction allows for the biker to travel faster, maintain control and provide an added safety feature.

Another advantage of adding suspension is that it provides less wear and tear on the biker.  This is because the suspension feature found on a mountain bike acts as a shock absorber.  This shock absorbing feature absorbs more of the punishment rather than the shock being transferred to the biker's body.

Single Suspension

When considering the purchase of a mountain bike with suspension, the next decision is whether to purchase a dual-suspension mountain bike or a single suspension mountain bike.  The obvious major difference between a single suspension and dual-suspension mountain bike is the number of suspension devices located on the bike.

Typically, a single suspension mountain bike is lighter and slightly more efficient.  This is because the single suspension is only located on the front of the bike.  The single suspension bike is easier to maintain and less expensive. However, being only a single suspension unit, the absorption of shock incurred is less.

Dual Suspension

However, a dual-suspension mountain bike has become more popular.  This is due to the fact that modifications have been made with this system to minimize the loss of mobility and speed due to the added weight of the system.  Also, with a dual-suspension mountain bike there is a substantial difference in the traction afforded to the rear wheel which adds to the enjoyment or competitive edge of mountain biking. 

In addition, there is more shock absorption afforded to the rider.  This not only produces less wear and tear on the biker, but helps to conserve the individual’s strength.