Are you a lover of adventures on rough terrain, and you are looking for an electric mountain bike? If so, you should get one with a suspension system, especially considering everything the suspension system offers.

Now, with that said, when it comes to suspension systems, there are two common forms of electric mountain bike:the full suspension electric mountain bike and the hardtail electric mountain bike. Both of these electric bike are designed for specific terrains, and they have different suspension system.

So, which is the best suspension system on an electric mountain bike? This is what we are going to look at in this article. We will tell you which is the best suspension system and why by giving you the advantages of each. So, keep reading to learn more;

What is a hardtail electric mountain bike?

This is an electric MTB that features a front suspension fork but no rear suspension, which gives them a rigid and unsuspended frame. The front suspension system helps the rider in navigating challenging terrain, especially when traveling over lumps, bumps, and jumps. It essentially absorbs some of the impacts, which then lessens the strain that’s otherwise placed upon the rider. These bikes are known for their all-purpose riding capabilities, lower price point, and lighter weight, and they are a pretty popular choice among off-roaders.

These bikes are mainly used for riding in many environments and terrains, especially due to their versatility and resilient nature. This means that they are able to perform really well in places like mountain trails, roads and tracks. Also, the hardtails are suitable for less experienced riders and are perfect for less intense trails

What is a full suspension electric mountain bike?

Sometimes known as softail, this is an ebike that comes with both the front suspension fork and rear suspension system. For this reason, they can also be referred to as dual suspension electric mountain bikes. Now, the addition of the rear suspension system makes a whole lot of difference as it makes the bikes more efficient and comfier to ride even on the most challenging terrains. The rear shock basically improves the bike’s traction and control, which, in turn, results in more rider comfort.         

What is the difference between the two?

There are a number of ways in which both of these electric bikes differ. They include the following;

Weight – one of the major and obvious differences between hardtails and full suspension electric bikes is the weight. The hardtail ebike is usually lighter than the full suspension ebike, as it doesn’t come with the added weight of the rear shock and suspension linkages. This means that hardtails are a bit faster when it comes to climbing efficiency, especially on less intense terrain.

Terrain – both of these types of e-bikes can tackle a wide variety of challenging terrain, but one thing to keep in mind is that the riding experience you get from each of these e-bikes will; be different. You see, due to its rear shock absorber, a full suspension ebike will feel a lot smoother to ride when on a challenging terrain than a hardtail ebike. So this means that this is the most ideal bike to take to the most off-road and challenging terrains. And if you are a new rider, the full suspension ebikes will also be ideal as with the rear suspension system, it will protect you from the shock and vibrations from the ground, which will reduce the rider’s fatigue and, in turn, enable the rider to keep up the pace for longer distances.

Climbing vs descending – the other difference between these two electric bikes has to do with their strengths when it comes to hills. When climbing long hills, hardtail ebikes would be the better choice, all thanks to their rigid rear end, stable riding position, battery conservation, and lighter frame. But when it comes to going downhills, full suspension ebikes have an edge. Considering the added rear suspension and the riding position, you are able to get more control, particularly on steeper declines. Also, if the terrain is rough and more technical, full suspension ebikes are more suitable for uphills, as the rear suspension helps to keep the tire on the ground while you wiggle your way through the climb.

Which is the better option for an electric mountain bike?

Now that we have looked at the differences, you may be wondering which type of suspension system you would want to have on your bike. Here is what we recommend; if you are planning to do a lot of technical riding – that is, on rough terrain, steep descents, and jumps – then a full suspension electric mountain bike would be the most ideal. With the absorption of the trail impacts and smoothening out of the ride, the rider is able to get more control and hence a more comfortable ride.

And if you are planning to go cross-country riding, where efficiency and speed are crucial, then a hardtail electric mountain bike would be the most ideal. You see, these bikes are relatively lighter and are more efficient, thereby making them faster when on smooth terrain.

Essentially, what we are simply saying is that the type of suspension you choose will entirely depend on what it is you want from the bike, the type of riding you do, and your personal preferences. So, how about you maybe go for a test ride on both electric bikes to see the one that feels more comfortable and also performs much better for you.

Bottom line

When deciding on the best suspension for you, between full suspension and hardtail electric mountain bikes, first, you should know that there is no better or worse option. It all comes down to your specific needs as a rider. Both options offer varying benefits, with full suspension electric mountain bike offering added comfort and faster downhills, and also the ability to tackle the toughest terrains, while hardtail electric mountain bikes offer lighter frames, better battery efficiency, and lower price. Whatever you choose, make sure that it fits your riding style and also meets its intended use.