A hardtail mountain bike is an excellent choice for a beginner to intermediate level rider. They are typically more affordable than full-suspension bikes and are lighter weight, making them easier to maneuver. Hardtails are better suited for cross-country and singletrack riding, as they are more efficient and require less energy to climb hills.
Full-suspension mountain bikes are great for more advanced riders who want to tackle steep and technical trails. The extra suspension provides greater control and comfort, allowing you to descend with more confidence. They are also ideal for riders who want to jump and do technical tricks. However, full-suspension bikes are heavier and more expensive than hardtails.
Cross Country (XC) full-suspension bikes are usually lightweight and designed for speed. They have relatively short travel (80-120mm) and are designed to climb efficiently. XC full-suspension bikes are great for riders who want an efficient climbing machine that can handle a variety of terrain.
Trail full-suspension bikes are designed for a balance of efficiency and capability. They have more travel (120-150mm) and are designed to handle more challenging terrain. They are a great choice for riders who want an all-around bike that can handle climbing, descending, and jumping.
All-Mountain full-suspension bikes are designed for aggressive riding on technical terrain. They have the most travel (150-180mm) and are designed to handle big drops, jumps, and rock gardens. All-mountain bikes are great for riders who want a bike that can handle anything.
Enduro and downhill bikes are specialized full-suspension bikes designed for downhill racing. They have the most travel (180-200mm) and are designed to handle the toughest terrain. Enduro and downhill bikes are great for riders who want a bike that can handle the most extreme terrain.
Mountain bike head tube angle (also known as head angle) is the angle between the head tube and the ground. It is one of the most important characteristics of a mountain bike's frame geometry, as it determines how the bike handles on the trail. Head tube angle is measured in degrees, and it can range from around 68 degrees (slack) to 72 degrees (steep). A steeper head angle creates more responsive handling, while a slacker angle provides more stability at higher speeds. The choice of head tube angle largely depends on the type of riding you plan to do, as well as the type of terrain. In general, mountain bikes with a steeper head angle are more efficient on climbs and tend to have a more responsive handling, while bikes with a slacker head angle are more stable at higher speeds and tend to have a more relaxed handling.
General MTB Head Tube Angle