Mountain bikes are designed to handle rugged terrain, and many feature suspension systems to absorb impacts and provide a smoother ride. These systems range from full suspension to hardtail, and even no suspension at all. Full suspension bikes have shock absorption in both the front and rear, while hardtails have a solid rear fork and suspension only in the front. Lower-end mountain bikes may lack suspension entirely.
**Types of Mountain Bikes:**
* **Cross-Country Bikes:** Ideal for small to moderate trails, cross-country bikes excel at both climbing and descending. The rear suspension travel is typically less than four inches to maintain climbing efficiency. With around 28 gears, these bikes offer a wide range for varied terrain.
* **Trail Bikes:** More robust than cross-country bikes, trail bikes are built for technical mountain biking. Suspension travel ranges from four to seven inches, providing a smoother ride at the cost of uphill pedaling efficiency. Riders must balance these factors based on their preferences and trails.
* **Downhill Bikes:** Featuring front and rear shocks with up to eight inches of travel, downhill bikes are designed for downhill racing. The extensive suspension makes uphill pedaling extremely difficult, so these bikes are almost exclusively used for downhill races where they allow for maximum speed and control over rough terrain.
* **Dirt Jump Bikes:** These bikes have front suspension only and are designed for aerial maneuvers. Typically equipped with around 16 gears, they allow riders to build up the speed needed for jumps.