The mountain bike is used by many users as a robust city bike or city bike. But mountain bikes are also highly specialized sports equipment – and as such, the individual types more or less suit your own riding style. The most important mountain bike categories include cross-country/marathon, all-mountain as well as enduro, downhill and E-MTB (electric mountain bike). In addition, a distinction is also made between “Fully” and “Hardtail” mountain bikes, meaning the spring-loaded rear end. The hardtail has no rear suspension – but a spring-loaded fork is also standard on the hardtail. The Fully (“Full Suspension”), on the other hand, has full suspension.
Advantages of a hardtail: These mountain bikes are usually cheaper to buy – or have higher-quality equipment for the same price. In addition, the mountain bikes have a more direct power transmission, are easier to care for and lighter than fullys.
Disadvantages of a hardtail: Due to the lack of suspension, shocks are passed on directly to the body. The bikes are therefore only recommended for very experienced bikers, especially in rough terrain. There are also routes that should not be ridden with a hardtail.
Advantages of a fully: With the full-suspension mountain bikes, routes are possible that you would not have dared to tackle years ago. Trails, inclines and descents are possible with fullys.
Disadvantages of a fully: In comparison, the power transmission is usually not as good or less direct. In addition, the suspension requires occasional maintenance. Fullys are usually more expensive to buy.
In the following table we show you three hardtail mountain bikes up to around 1,000 euros. In this class you already get very high-quality bikes that can be used as all-rounders for streets, fields and meadows. More details about the individual bikes can be found below.