What is the best mountain bike model to get started? Front or Full?
We try to examine in depth both types, see the strengths and weaknesses, make a comparison of settings, driving styles and usability.
The substantial difference between a mountain bike front and mountain bike full is in the suspension. The front ones mounts a front cushion, while the latter mounts one front and one rear.
The mountain bikes front are suitable for a beginner, are made up of a single frame and a front cushioned fork. Geometries and compact angles allow for a more direct transmission of the muscular power.
The mountain bikes full are composed of a frame with joints and front and rear cushioned fork. Geometries and more relaxed corners give a better comfort especially downhill.
DIFFERENCES AND AFFINITY
- Drive
The front one is more responsive and maximize pedaling power as opposed to the full one in which, the latter is partly absorbed from the back shock absorber (or shock). On the other hand, the full one provides a high level of comfort on all soil and is unbeatable even downhill. The shock absorbs much of the vibration and ensures more fluid and comfortable driving. - Settings
Two mountain bikes from the same builder, a front and a full, certainly the front one would proposes better setup because the cost of the shock, which is lacking, would be invested in other components like the gearbox.
At parity of components, the full one will surely cost more as the shock entails a higher cost than the front. - Maintenance
The front one is certainly easier and cheaper with regard to maintenance because it is devoid of some components such as frame joints and shock. The present suspensions must be inspect periodically. - Weight
The difference in weight between the two is about 1kg to 1.5kg at the expense of the full one. - The use out of the paths
To travel both off-road and road the best bike is a mountain bike front. The best power transmission allows you to move well even on the road.
IN CONCLUSION
To make the right choice between mountain bike front and mountain bike full you have to have in mind your needs and especially the use you make of the bike.
Here are some examples where you might recognize yourself:
- Neophytes – you approach to the mountain bike for the first time and your goal is to go on more or less sketched trails on the weekend: choose a front one, bring a lesser expense and allow you to know the discipline.
- Passionate – you already experience mountain biking and look for something to improve the technique: choose a front.
- Road cyclists – even cycling champions alternate race bikes and mountain bikes to keep the shape: choose a mountain bike front as they do.
- Hikers – you plan to go on a mountain trail with considerable altitudes and several adrenaline slopes: choose a full one.
- Cyclotourists – You plan to travel off-road or in remote parts of the world: both solutions might be ideal. Consider your path, how much asphalt you will encounter and how much off-road, what you will find on front, etc … a front one is better if you do long stretches on asphalt, but if you have to deal with high altitudes it is better a full one.