A Mountain bike should always have a proper full suspension system. This is important as it helps with a smoother ride when going over difficult terrain. You will find that full suspension bikes have both a front and back suspension. Hard tail mountain bikes have a shock system in place of the front fork and a solid rear fork. Lower end models of mountain bikes do not have a shock system either in the front or rear of the bike.

Mountain bikes with both descending and climbing ability are usually ideal for cross country riders. The rear suspension will only move about 4 inches so that it doesnt cause a problem when trying to climb uphill. When travelling over different terrain a greater number of gears are require to make it easier to navigate, because of this most cross country mountain bikes have 28 gears.

More robust bikes are available in the shape of a trial bike for the more technical rider. Trial bikes typically move a little more and you can expect the movement of the suspension to be between 4 and 7 inches. This will mean that you get a lot smoother ride but it is more difficult to pedal uphill. Riders of mountain bikes have to weigh up whether they need a smoother ride against decreased pedal efficiency. All terrain cycles is a great place on the web to look for Trek Track Bikes.

Specific downhill mountain bikes can expect up to 8 inches in suspension movement. If you are a downhill racer it is this type of bike that you will need. A downhill bike with more movement in the suspension is easier to control going downhill but a lot more difficult to pedal going uphill.