Semi-rigid or full-suspension: how to choose the right mountain bike?

For beginners, the term "semi-rigid" mountain bike (with only one rear suspension) is often used. fork suspension fork) and full-suspension MTBs (with a double shock-absorbing fork and suspension fork). shock absorber shock absorbers on the frame) may not ring a bell. However, depending on your tastes, your riding style and your budget, this is the first choice you'll have to make when purchasing a MOUNTAIN BIKE. Here are a few points to guide you.

In the past, the choice came down to comfort or performance, but kinematics have made enormous progress in recent years, virtually eliminating the pumping effect of rear suspension and thus greatly erasing the differences in performance between the two types of bike. However, there are still some notable differences. For the same price range, a semi-rigid model will be lighter, easier to maintain and more affordable. Full-suspension bikes, on the other hand, offer greater comfort, traction and shock absorption.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SEMI-RIGID MOUNTAIN BIKES

As the name implies, a semi-rigid mountain bike is built around a suspension fork and a rigid frame. Easier to design and manufacture, the latter logically costs less to produce than a full-suspension. A semi-rigid will therefore be more affordable, making it the ideal bike for the beginner or the person wishing to ride occasionally for rides around their home on weekends or vacations.

For the more experienced rider, it will offer the same price as a full-suspension bike, but with access to a higher range (e.g. carbon frame vs. aluminum for the full-suspension) and/or superior equipment (fork, transmission, braking).

The simpler frame structure and absence of shock absorbers also mean that, for the same level of performance, the bike is lighter and requires less maintenance.

The absence of shock absorbers generally leads to greater overall rigidity, which ensures good performance. But the corollary of this is poorer traction, since without suspension, the rear wheel is not held on the ground, and less comfort on uneven terrain.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FULL-SUSPENSION MOUNTAIN BIKES

Combining a suspension fork at the front and a shock absorber at the rear, all-suspension mountain bikes are becoming increasingly popular in the mountain bike market, whether muscle-powered or electrically assisted. They're the perfect choice for nature-lovers looking for optimum comfort and unfailing safety, allowing them to explore terrain inaccessible with a semi-rigid.
The first thing you notice when you switch from a RIB to an All-Suspended is the comfort provided by the rear suspension, which makes it possible to pass (almost) anywhere with peace of mind.

The presence of the shock absorber also guarantees exceptional traction, keeping the rear wheel firmly planted on the ground whatever the unevenness of the terrain. What's more, manufacturers have made great strides in neutralizing the pumping effect inherent in the bike's articulation, thanks to significant work on the kinematics. Combined with the fact that some shock absorbers offer the option of partial and/or total locking to tackle rolling sections with maximum efficiency, you get a bike whose performance is now as good as, if not better than, a semi-rigid.

Which mountain bike is right for me?

For a Rando type of riding, where price and simplicity are the main criteria, a semi-rigid steel or aluminum mountain bike is ideal. Some will prefer a full-suspension for greater comfort, but the cost won't be the same. More likely to be a 27.5" or 29", with fork travel between 100 and 130 mm for greater versatility.

For cross-country riding, a semi-rigid aluminum or even carbon mountain bike will provide maximum lightness and responsiveness. Preferably with 29" wheels, and a fork between 80 and 120 mm, to be the fastest on rolling sections, but also on rougher terrain. On the other hand, when it comes to longer rides (such as Marathons), you'll need a full-suspension bike.

For All-Mountain outings, we recommend a semi-rigid if you're on a tight budget, but more likely an all-suspension bike with 130 to 150 mm of travel. The frame is usually made of aluminum, but you can choose from a range of materials and wheel sizes to suit your needs. So many possible choices for a mountain bike capable of both climbing very well and being at ease on even the most challenging downhill.

For Enduro riding, we recommend an all-suspension frame. The amateur will opt for an aluminum frame, generally in 27.5", while the competitor will be tempted by carbon, also with 27.5" wheels in most cases. For travel, the minimum will be 140 mm, with the more daring on the terrain taking up to 180 mm. Not necessarily the best for climbing, it's primarily for descending.

And finally, if you want to go DH/Freeride, you'll need a full-suspension bike with 200 mm of travel, generally in aluminum, even if carbon is becoming increasingly popular in this field for those chasing seconds at the finish line.

Semi-rigid / full-suspension comparison