|
Long-travel full suspension mountain bikes are very popular among riders who prefer a full-suspension bike. These long-travel trail bikes were designed for long, technical, "epic" rides. More and more, they are becoming more popular as everyday, ride-anything bikes. They are a little heavier than their short-travel cross-country cousins; however, this slight increase in weight is offset by superior handling in technical terrain, more confident descending, and greater rider comfort. On long rides, getting bumped around on rough terrain is very exhausting. Having a little extra shock-absorption is very appreciated by many riders! Anything from 5-7" of travel is considered long-travel. Frame geometry is slightly different from short-travel (3-5") cross-country bikes. It has to accommodate the more dynamic action of a long-travel fork and shock. Usually this means a taller front end. Some riders don't like the feel of a long-travel bike when climbing since the rider weight is pushed to the back of the bike a little more; however, removing a few spacers on the steerer tube and lowering the stem can take away from some of that upright feeling. The upside to this position is felt on the descent. There is much less tendency to "endo" (an unexpected launch over the handlebars), again because rider weight is further back.
It seems that most riders who test-ride a short-travel bike and a long-travel bike end up liking the long-travel bike better, simply because of its superior comfort. Short-travel bikes are more popular with riders concerned with lighter weight and speed. Long-travel bikes are available both in 26" and 29" wheel versions. Many different shock and fork options and suspension systems are available as well. |
