Full Suspension E-Bikes: Why Choose it? (2023 Updated)
Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, have grown tremendously in popularity in recent years. With the added power of a motor, e-bikes open up new possibilities for bike commuting, recreation, adventure, and more. One key decision you'll face when shopping for an e-bike is choosing a hardtail or full suspension model.
So what exactly is the difference, and how do you decide which is right for the type of riding you plan to do? This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about full-suspension e-bikes and compare them with hardtails. It will also overview the top models and provide tips on selecting the best e-bike for your needs. Let's dive in!
What Is a Full Suspension E-Bike?
First, let's cover some key terminology. Full-suspension e-bikes have a front fork suspension and a rear suspension shock. This dual suspension system works in tandem to absorb bumps, rocks, roots, and other obstacles on the trail.
In contrast, hardtail e-bikes have a rigid rear frame and only feature a suspension fork in the front. The lack of rear suspension makes hardtails simpler and more affordable.
On full-suspension e-bikes, the rear suspension is integrated into the frame, consisting of two parts - a front triangle and a rear swingarm. The rear shock absorber connects these two frame sections, allowing the rear wheel to compress upward and soak up bumps.
Diagram showing full suspension mountain bike rear shock and linkage.
This full-suspension system aims to keep the tires firmly planted on the ground, maintaining control and traction even over very rough terrain. The front and rear shocks isolate the bike and rider from hits, bumps, and vibrations.
Let's explore the key benefits this dual suspension offers in more detail.
Benefits of Full Suspension E-Bikes
Some of the major advantages of full-suspension electric bikes include the following:
a.Increased Comfort and Shock Absorption
The primary benefit of full suspension is a smoother, more comfortable ride. The front and rear shocks absorb the bumps, rocks, and uneven terrain, helping isolate you from trail chatter and reducing fatigue.
Full suspension bikes have a decided edge in rider comfort over long distances and challenging terrain compared to hardtails.
b.Improved Traction and Control
Full suspension isn't just about comfort. The increased wheel contact with the ground greatly enhances traction and control.
As the wheels react to obstacles, the suspension keeps them planted and in continuous contact with the surface below. This allows you to carry speed over rough sections and maintain control.
Traction is further improved while cornering and braking. The full suspension system keeps the tires glued to the surface, increasing grip for confident handling on descents.
c.Tames Very Rough Terrain
A full-suspension electric bike shines when the terrain gets extremely rough, steep, and technical.
With sufficient suspension travel to absorb larger hits, these bikes can traverse sections with big rocks, drops, roots, and other obstacles that would stop most riders on a hardtail.
The right full-suspension e-bike can be a game changer regarding the terrain you can explore and obstacles you can ride over.
d.Enhanced Handling Through Absorbed Impacts
Another advantage of full suspension's bump absorption is more controlled handling.
On a hardtail, large impacts can force the front wheel offline or disrupt your balance as the rear end pitches upward. With the full suspension, absorbed hits keep the bike composed and online.
This allows you to choose faster, more confident lines and smooth out especially rugged trails.
e.Keeps the Wheels Planted for Safety
Full suspension's excellent traction isn't just about performance - it also equates to increased safety and stability.
By keeping the tires adhered to the surface, full suspension bikes greatly reduce the chance of washing out, sliding, or losing control compared to hardtails.
This makes them ideal for descending rugged trails at higher speeds safely. The full suspension helps protect against accidents induced by rough terrain.
Now that you understand the core benefits of full-suspension electric bikes let's look at some key factors to weigh when choosing one.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Full Suspension E-Bike
As with any major cycling purchase, it's important to carefully consider the type of riding you plan to do and match the bike's capabilities accordingly. Here are some of the variables to keep in mind:
a.Intended Riding Terrain and Style
The terrain you'll ride should factor heavily into your full-suspension e-bike choice. Downhill and enduro riders require more travel and rugged builds to blast rock gardens and jumps. Cross-country riders still benefit from full suspension but may prioritize lower weight.
If you stay on smoother dirt roads and groomed singletrack, a hardtail could potentially suffice and save money. But full suspension is the way for serious trails, downhill, and enduro pursuits.
b.Motor Power Output
More powerful motors allow climbing steep grades with less effort while maintaining speed on punchy trail sections.
Motor wattage typically ranges from 250W to 750W on most full-suspension e-MTBs. Torque figures, measuring rotational force, span 35Nm to 85Nm.
Higher power and torque provide a burlier boost for aggressive riding. But a slightly lower assist could feel more natural for lighter trail use.
c.Battery Capacity and Range
The battery size, measured in watt-hours (Wh), determines how long your rides can last between charges.
Standard batteries for full-suspension e-bikes are around 500Wh to 700Wh. Models with integrated downtube batteries can exceed 900Wh for maximum range.
Remember that higher power modes and challenging terrain drain batteries faster. But full suspension bikes enable accessing more distant trails before recharging.
However, there is also the possibility of a battery fire, you may also want to read this article: How To Prevent eBike Fires: A Comprehensive Guide In 2023
d.Suspension Travel
Suspension travel refers to the maximum distance the front fork and rear shock can compress. More travel allows for the absorption of larger impacts.
Cross-country or marathon full-suspension e-bikes have 100-120mm of travel. Trail bikes offer 130-150mm. Enduro and downhill models max out at 180mm or more.
Match the suspension travel range to the terrain and obstacles you want to conquer. More is better for ultra-rugged riding.
e.Frame Material
Full-suspension e-bikes come in aluminum, steel, titanium, and carbon fiber frames.
Carbon is the lightest but very expensive. Most brands use high-quality aluminum to cut weight and cost. Steel boosts durability. Titanium combines strength, springiness, and low density.
Each material has advantages for certain applications and budgets. Test different frames to see what you prefer.
Tips for Maintaining Full Suspension E-Bikes
While full-suspension electric bikes require more maintenance than hardtails, regular care goes a long way
Here are some tips for keeping your full suspension e-bike running smoothly:
- Thoroughly clean suspension components using a damp rag after muddy/dusty rides. Avoid blasting with water pressure.
- Inspect the fork stanchions and rear shock shaft for any scratches or damage that require service.
- Use a lightweight lube or oil on the suspension fork's dust wipers after washing to prevent binding and extend lifespan.
- Follow the manufacturer-recommended service intervals for major fluid changes and damper/air spring rebuilds. This prevents premature wear.
- Consider less frequent fluid changes if the bike isn't subjected to extreme dust and grit from off-road use. Street use contaminates oil more slowly.
- If equipped, exercise the rear shock's compression-damping pedal lockout on smooth climbs to optimize pedaling efficiency.
- To avoid damage, transport and store the bike so the suspension isn't compressed for prolonged periods.
- Replace damaged or heavily scratched suspension fork stanchions/shock shafts that compromise sliding action and oil seal integrity.
With proper care, your full suspension e-bike's fork and shock will deliver miles of enhanced control, comfort, and traction on even the most demanding terrain.
Hardtail vs. Full Suspension E-Bikes Compared
Now that you know what full-suspension electric bikes are all about, how do they stack up against hardtails?
For certain riders and terrain, a high-quality hardtail e-bike makes perfect sense. But full-suspension models dominate competitive mountain biking for a good reason - they simply offer superior handling, control, and the ability to charge rough stuff
Here's an overview of the key differences:
| Aspect | Hardtail | Full Suspension |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Around 2-4 lbs lighter | Around 2-4 lbs heavier due to rear shocks and linkages |
| Simplicity and Affordability | Simple frames and fewer components, lower costs ($800-$1500 savings) | More complex frames and components, higher costs |
| Efficiency | More efficient pedaling on smooth surfaces | Slight pedaling "bob" but shock lockouts prevent it; better efficiency on rough terrain |
| Comfort | Transmits more vibration and shock; can feel harsh on rocky trails | Provides a smoother and more comfortable ride by absorbing bumps at both ends |
| Climbing | Better climbers on smoother surfaces due to lower weight and stiffness | Excels on technical climbs with enhanced traction |
| Descending | Can feel skittish and require more finesse | Allows faster and more controlled descents down rough terrain and steep grades |
| Handling | More direct steering feedback, but front wheel can be knocked offline more easily | Better handling with improved cornering traction and stability at speed |
| Maintenance | Simpler with fewer parts to adjust and maintain | Requires more frequent service of rear shocks and linkages |
For certain riders and terrain, a high-quality hardtail e-bike makes perfect sense. But full-suspension models dominate competitive mountain biking for a good reason - they simply offer superior handling, control, and the ability to charge rough stuff.
Weight
- Full-suspension bikes weigh around 2-4 lbs more than hardtails on average due to rear shocks and linkages.
- Heavier weight affects acceleration and climbing ability but matters less with pedal assist.
Simplicity and Affordability
- Hardtails have simpler frames and fewer components, translating to lower costs.
- Buying a hardtail can save $800-$1500 typically compared to a similar full-suspension bike.
Efficiency
- Hardtails are slightly more efficient pedallers, especially on smooth surfaces, due to the lack of rear suspension motion.
- Full suspension models can experience some pedaling "bob," but shock lockouts prevent this.
- On very rough terrain, full suspension maintains momentum better and is more efficient overall.
Comfort
- Full-suspension bikes provide a much smoother and more comfortable ride by absorbing bumps at both ends.
- Hardtails transmit more vibration and shock to the rider and can feel harsh on rocky trails.
Climbing
- On smoother surfaces, hardtails are better climbers thanks to lower weight and stiffness.
- For technical climbs full of roots and loose surfaces, full suspension excels with enhanced traction.
Descending
- Full suspension bikes allow faster and more controlled descents down rough terrain and steep grades.
- Hardtails can feel skittish trying to descend rugged trails at speed and require more finesse.
Handling
- Full suspension offers better handling overall, with improved cornering traction and stability at speed.
- Hardtails have more direct steering feedback, but rougher sections knock the front wheel offline more easily.
Maintenance
- Full suspension bikes require more frequent service of rear shocks and linkages.
- Hardtails are simpler, with fewer parts to adjust and maintain.
For certain riders and terrain, a high-quality hardtail e-bike makes perfect sense. But full-suspension models dominate competitive mountain biking for a good reason - they simply offer superior handling, control, and the ability to charge rough stuff.
Recommended Full Suspension E-Bikes
Looking for a high-performing full-suspension e-bike? Based on my research, here are three excellent options from DYU to consider:
a. DYU King 750 Full Suspension Ebike
The DYU King 750 is a rugged full-suspension e-bike powered by a 750W motor. It can reach speeds up to 28 mph and offers a range of up to 80 miles per charge. Key features include:
- 26" fat tires for stability and traction
- Front and rear suspension absorbs bumps and enhances control
- Large 48V 20Ah LG battery for extended range
- Powerful 750W motor with max torque for hill climbing
- Hydraulic disc brakes provide strong stopping power
- Adjustable shocks dial in your preferred ride feel
With its fat tire traction, plush suspension, and serious motor power, the King 750 can easily devour rough terrain and accelerate. It's built to last and perform in demanding conditions.
b. DYU V8 Off Road Electric Bike
Another burly full suspension model from DYU, the V8, packs a punch with its 750W motor and long-range 48V 15.5Ah battery. Key features include:
- 20" x 4" fat tires add stability and absorb vibrations
- Front and rear suspension smooth out rough trails
- Powerful 750W motor reaches 28 mph top speeds
- Large 15.5Ah battery provides up to 50 miles of range
- Shimano 7-speed shifting offers gearing options
- Hydraulic disc brakes deliver strong, consistent braking
The V8's fat tires, plush suspension, and high-torque motor equip it to devour bumpy trails with speed and control. It's built to perform off-road while keeping the ride comfortable.
c. DYU FF500 Front Suspension Electric Bike
The DYU FF500 is designed to deliver a full suspension bike experience while only having front suspension. Key features include:
- 20" x 4" fat tires for stability and shock absorption
- Front suspension fork smooths out bumps and rutted terrain
- 500W motor reaches 20 mph speeds with pedal assist
- 48V 14Ah battery provides up to 43 miles of range
- Foldable design for convenient storage and transport
- Rear rack to easily haul cargo or supplies
With its robust build, front suspension, and strategically chosen components, the FF500 handles demanding riding environments - delivering an impressive full suspension-like ride despite being a hardtail e-bike.
How to Select the Right Full Suspension E-Bike?
Choosing your ideal full-suspension electric bike boils down to a few key factors:
- Budget– Full suspension bikes span from about $3,000 to $10,000. Set a target budget and find models offering maximum value and performance for the price.
- Riding Style– Are you a casual trail rider or a hardcore downhill racer? Match the bike's capabilities for suspension, motor power, geometry, and components to how aggressively you ride.
- Terrain– Will smooth dirt roads or ultra-rugged mountains be your playground? Seek travel amounts, traction, and power appropriate for your conditions.
- Comfort– Test ride bikes from various brands to find the best ergonomic fit for your body to maximize comfort over long distances.
- Serviceability– Assess your mechanical skills. Some models are easier for home wrenching than others.
Know more please click here: E-Bike Buyer's Guide: Find Your Perfect Electric Bike!
The right full-suspension e-MTB for your needs is out there, whether you crave all-day adventures or search for endless downhill laps. As electric bike technology matures, their performance mimics the best pedal-only models. Trust demo rides and reviews to zero in on your dream machine.
Conclusion
Full-suspension electric bikes provide a transformative riding experience versus hardtails or traditional mountain bikes. With both front and rear suspension, they soak up rugged terrain, increase control and traction, and open up new possibilities on challenging trails.
Factors like intended riding style, motor power, battery range, frame material, and suspension travel all help determine the ideal full-suspension e-MTB. A leading brand, DYU offers advanced models to match your budget and riding goals. Test rides are invaluable for choosing your perfect full-squish e-bike match.
While full-suspension e-bikes demand more maintenance, regular cleaning and scheduled service dramatically extend their working life. The extra comfort, stability, and downhill shredding abilities outweigh any drawbacks for aggressive trail riders. If you're ready to take your off-road adventures to the next level, a properly matched full-suspension electric mountain bike will provide miles of grins.
