why are full suspension mountain bikes so expensive

Why Are Full Suspension Mountain Bikes So Expensive?

Full-suspension mountain bikes are among the premium and costly bicycles available, with prices ranging from several thousand dollars based on the make and model. Is the high cost justified? Does the price correspond to the quality?

Why Are Full Suspension Mountain Bikes So Expensive?

why are full suspension mountain bikes so expensive

There are a few reasons why complete suspension mountain bikes tend to be more expensive than their hardtail counterparts:

  1. Full-suspension mountain bikes are pricier due to the more intricate suspension system they feature, which requires a greater amount of components and labor.
  2. Additionally, these bikes often incorporate top-notch components, which add to the cost.
  3. The extra weight of full-suspension bikes compared to hardtails is also a factor in their elevated cost.

What Makes Full Suspension Mountain Bikes Expensive Than Hardtail Mountain Bikes?

The full suspension mountain bike’s high cost can be attributed to its advanced rear suspension and use of premium components in its intricate design, which enhances its performance.

Full Suspension Bikes Require More Complex Manufacturing

full suspension bike rear shock absorber

The full suspension bikes have two sets of suspension, meaning that there are twice as many moving parts and components that need to be put together. They also have more linkages and pivots than hardtail bikes, meaning there are more potential areas for manufacturing tolerances and inaccuracies. Additionally, full-suspension bikes often have more complex shock systems than hardtail bikes, adding even more complexity to the manufacturing process.

Higher-End Components Cost More

Full-suspension mountain bikes provide advanced off-road riding features but come with a high price tag due to their premium components. They feature frames made of materials like carbon fiber or titanium, high-end suspension systems such as RockShox or Fox shocks, and wider, more durable tires with higher tire pressure to reduce rolling resistance and ease pedaling.

How Expensive Are Full Suspension Mountain Bikes?

It can come with a heftier price tag if you’re in the market for a full-suspension mountain bike. Depending on the bells and whistles you’re after, prices can range from $300 to a jaw-dropping $5,000 for a top-of-the-line model. But don’t worry! Plenty of great options won’t break the bank for those who want to keep their wallet a little heavier.

Below we have listed some of the best budget and high-end full-suspension mountain bikes to get you a better idea of price:

Product PreviewProduct NamePrice
[amazon fields=”B008B2N1KK” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike”][amazon link=”B008B2N1KK” title=”Northwoods Aluminum Full Suspension Mountain Bike”]$205
[amazon fields=”B07PYQWNYJ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Full Suspension Mountain Bike 21 Speed Bicycle”][amazon link=”B07PYQWNYJ” title=”EUROBIKE Full Suspension Mountain Bike 21 Speed Bicycle 27.5 inches Mens or Women”]$289
[amazon fields=”B00OW1PMTW” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike”][amazon link=”B00OW1PMTW” title=”Kent KZ2600 Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike, 26-Inch”]$299.99
[amazon fields=”B08BLCNBXZ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike with Full-Suspension”][amazon link=”B08BLCNBXZ” title=”Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike,Full-Suspension 21 Speeds Drivetrain with Disc-Brake”]$319.99
[amazon fields=”B00GM1MMEI” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes Aluminum Frame”][amazon link=”B00GM1MMEI” title=”Gravity FSX 1.0 Dual Full Suspension Mountain Bike with Disc Brakes Aluminum Frame”]$449
[amazon fields=”B07RN2K24Z” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike, 29-Inch Wheels with Dual-Suspension”][amazon link=”B07RN2K24Z” title=”Schwinn S29 Mens Mountain Bike, 29-Inch Wheels, Aluminum Frame, Dual-Suspension, Mechanical Disc Brakes”]$581
[amazon fields=”B06XWYS3NN” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike, Full Dual Suspension”][amazon link=”B06XWYS3NN” title=”Schwinn Traxion Mountain Bike, Full Dual Suspension, 29-Inch Wheels”]$736.90
[amazon fields=”B084HJQNV9″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Mongoose Salvo Trail Adult Mountain Bike”][amazon link=”B084HJQNV9″ title=”Mongoose Salvo Trail Adult Mountain Bike, 29-inch Wheels, 18-Speed Trigger Shifters”]$874.99
[amazon fields=”B0BGHXP496″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_align=”center” image_alt=”Eahora AM200 Air Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bike 1000W Peak Fat Tire”][amazon link=”B0BGHXP496″ title=”Eahora AM200 Air Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bike 1000W Peak Fat Tire”]$1,899.99

Is It Worth Buying An Expensive Full Suspension Mountain Bike?

Full suspension bikes bring a smoother, more stable ride to the table and make tackling tough terrain a breeze. They also offer a more comfortable experience, making them a great option if you spend a lot of time on the trails. If you’re looking to take your riding experience to the next level, investing in a full-suspension mountain bike is smart.

Bottom Line

A full-suspension mountain bike typically costs more than a hardtail due to its use of higher-end, more intricate components. This includes a more robust rear suspension and an array of durable parts throughout the frame. Additionally, full-suspension bikes tend to be heavier than hardtails, adding to the overall cost. While it may be pricier, investing in a full-suspension mountain bike often results in a more capable and long-lasting ride on rough terrain.

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