Hardtails are where many of us start our mountain bike journey; however, most riders don’t ever swing their leg over one again after making the switch to a full-suspension bike. Some riders even leapfrog the hardtail completely, jumping straight in with a full-sus MTB.
While there’s no denying the benefits of rear suspension, especially for riders looking for maximum descending performance, it’s a shame to see the humble hardtail falling by the wayside in an industry that places performance and innovation at the forefront.
Here’s why every mountain biker should have a hardtail mountain bike in their life, even if it’s only on a weekend loan from a friend.
1. Hardtails encapsulate the essence of mountain biking
Most of us get into mountain biking for the pure thrill and enjoyment we get from riding new trails, seeing new sights and having an adventure in the hills and woods. We don’t fall in love with the sport for marginal gains, flashy tech or suspension kinematics…
Hardtails represent the root of what mountain biking is all about, offering all we need to tackle the trails with a massive grin without trying to sell us anything else.
If you get the chance, I’d implore you to take a hardtail out for a lap of your local trails. You might not set your fastest times or end up riding the most gnarly trails, but once you drop those expectations and focus instead on the trail in front of you, I bet you won’t regret it.
Who knows, you may just remember the feelings that got you hooked on mountain biking in the first place.
2. They’re simple and reliable
Hardtails are simpler than full-suspension bikes, and therefore more reliable. Without a second suspension component and the multitude of bearings, seals and bolts that come with it, they’re bombproof workhorses for riding in all weather conditions.
If you’re put off by the complexity of full-suspension frames and want a bike that will just work, a hardtail is a great, consistently reliable option. Of course, as with any bike, you could end up sidelined due to issues with the components, but when it comes to durability, there’s not much stronger than a good hardtail frame.
3. They make you a better rider
Time spent on a hardtail will undoubtedly make you a better mountain biker. Just like flat pedals, they highlight the weaknesses in your riding technique. Perhaps you rely on the help from your rear suspension’s rebound to get you airborne during a bunny hop, or maybe your cornering technique isn’t quite as dialled as you thought it was…
Even confident and experienced riders will get a lot from spending some time on a hardtail – the naturally unforgiving nature and direct trail feedback that come with having no rear suspension make for a perfect mirror to show you where you can further improve your riding skills.
4. They’re (sometimes) good value
If value for money is a priority, hardtails pack a punch, especially around the sub-£2,000 mark. Comparatively, they’re cheaper for manufacturers to make and spec, so you’ll often get a better deal on components compared to a similarly priced full-suspension bike. There are also lower maintenance costs involved.
Of course, you can also go all-out on a bespoke hardtail if you want. There are many beautiful bespoke frames out there, often made from steel for the ultimate blend of stiffness, compliance and weight.
5. They are outrageously fun
There’s also no denying the fun to be had riding a hardtail. Equally at home at trail centres as they are on rolling singletrack and mountain paths, a good hardtail brings every trail to life. The undamped trail feedback and responsive handling that make up their character allow the trail to shine.
Even trails that you've previously written off as boring will be given a new lease of life, and you will most likely discover a newfound appreciation for the singletrack that’s all around you.
6. Bonus: they’re incredibly versatile
No other off-road-worthy bike is as versatile as a hardtail mountain bike. From pump track laps to huge multi-day bikepacking expeditions, hardtails take it all in their stride.
Their simple frames and all-round abilities make them true jacks of all trades, and their relatively light weight and efficient pedalling performance mean they can hold their own on long days, covering big miles. If you only want one bike to do it all, a hardtail is a great option.
