For the most part mountain bikes split into two distinct camps, hardtail and full suspension with distinct advantages for both types, however, both are designed to handle trails less travelled. We here at Scotby Cycles are proud to stock a range of fantastic mountain bikes from industry leaders such as Specialized and Cannondale whom between them are responsible for much of the innovation we see on mountain bikes across the whole sport.
Hardtails are by far the most popular form of mountain bike we stock – models such as the Specialized Pitch and Rockhopper or Cannondale Trail, these feature a front suspension fork and a traditional rear end which overall simplicity of design and maintenance. They also are typically far more economical as they don’t feature complicated swing arms or rear shocks which incidentally also saves considerable weight. Such bikes are perfect for trail and cross country use and range from entry level sub £500 models to elite featherweight carbon models costing upwards of £2000.
Full suspension bikes, on the other hand, are for venturing to where trails might not even exist, ideal for so-called “all-mountain”, freeride or downhill use. Obviously, these bikes feature suspension at both ends of the bike for absorbing big shocks from the variable terrain, there are also trail and enduro models which aren’t quite so burly as their downhill/freeride counterparts but are typically lighter.