Be extra thoughtful and experimental with your tire choices. You don't have rear suspension to aid traction, and "too much" tire can also nuke the potential benefits of a HT (lighter, more efficient). Learn the least amount of tire/traction you can get away with. A fast, zippy HT is so damn fun..
Choose the bike that suits the trails you're going to be riding 80% of the time. No need to buy a LTHT for flat tracks or an XC bike for very hard trails
Picked up a hardtail instead of a full sus because I wanted to keep even the most boring local trails somewhat fun for my day to day riding. Do not regret even a bit.
@@gmbn yeah.... I got a cross country 29er hardtail it's around 10kg, hydraulic breaks, air fork and all the other good stuff.... on a downhill the speed and responsiveness feels GODLIKE pumps the adrenaline to ALMOST uncomfortable levels but it feels SUPER AMAZING!!!
@@fasdrI agree, I have a XC hardtail (BMC two stroke AL 1) currently around 23 pounds and with a alloy frame, I enjoy riding it more then my full suspension trail bike! Nothing like a XC hardtail race weapon!
Due to Blakes awesome „hardtail advertisement clips“ I couldn’t resist. Bought a Scout frame and a complete full sus on sale, took off the parts, sold the FS frame and got a really nice spec hardtail on a really low budget. And I just LOVE it, most fun bike I ever had! Thanks Blake 🤘
I just got my first hardtail at 59, learning now how to jump and whip, hopefully I don't whip myself into the ER. Maybe another 15 years I think about ebike.
Avalanche is a damn good hardtail, i love their tail designed coz it's functional and really absorb some vibrations so it won't be too harsh on your legs..
I love Hardtails, so much simpler to set up and maintain. If I had to give one tip, I'd say learn to use your legs as suspension when you're going over rough stuff, it's a good workout and really makes it feel like you're part of the bike.
Good call 👍 Getting your body position right to really make the most of your legs is great for improving your riding on your hardtail, but also carries over to full suspension bikes too!
@@joshallen1846 I ride flats, but I'm not a pro or anywhere near it, personally I don't see the point in going to extremes like that when it's just for pleasure. I also wouldn't feel comfortable being clipped to the bike, I like the security of being able to take my foot off easily when the need arises.
@@DJ.V-W yep I completely agree I have hardtail at the moment and was looking to upgrade this year maybe and had my eye on a Nukeproof scout high spec or a budget level full sus and I think I’m going for the scout just for the sheer fun I already have on my Vitus Nuclues, as for pedals I too love being able to get my feet down when I need too
@@gmbn and once you learn to relax and go with the flow it REALLY feels like you are one with both the bike and the trail especially when you start to move yourself almost predicatively withe the bumps so much so you don't feel a thing 'cause you do the motion as it happens...... it feels like flowing water and you being a part of it and that feel of being one with the flow is AMAZING!!!
I only have a hardtail and its the only one I can afford, but the fun it gives me way exceeds its relative affordability. 🤟🏻 I'm not closing my doors on having a full sus someday, but I can't complain on the one I got. It does what it's supposed to give me: pure unadulterated fun! 🥰
@@gmbn I run on a 140mm travel on a small 29er frame. We don't have too gnarly trails but I've done jumps, drops, gaps and some moderately technical sections - even fun races - and in my 9 months of mountain biking, I would say the progression has been quite satisfying. Loving the hardtail. Couldn't say it enough. 😊
Big up maan :) Ppl have tendency to overbike for what they riding. That causing all fun and challenge to leave the chat :D I spending majority of a year in Netherlands. No hills or gnarl.... Vitus Sentier VRS 27,5 doing splendid job. Pumptracks, dirts, skatepark, flowy trails ... He is true Do it all machine and i love it. Got myself pair of maxis icons for pavement and keeping original schwalbe for Holidays in Slovakia where this beast still can keep up with FS on natural trails. 2000euro and i am able to ride wherever i want.... For bikeparks i am borrowing FS from them without the constant need for regular maintenance of that nasty linkage :D
I started on a HT thirty plus yrs ago, then went to full suss over a period of nearly 25 yrs. I decided to go back to a HT after riding several 27.5+ demo bikes. I ended up buying a 120mm forked Plus HT 3 yrs ago and haven't regretted it one bit.
@joshuaallswang8016 Yep, 2020 Roscoe 8. Bikes were getting scarce due to supply at that time, and I managed to get the last size large in my area. It may not have the through axle in the rear, but that hasn't been an issue just like the first thirty years of riding (I have never had a QR fail). I upgraded the fork and went with a shorter stem and wider bar. Still loving it for my type of riding; hand cut/natural terrain and black diamond rated tech/rock/exposure.
@@johnnydoe66 that’s what’s up man, sick bike. I just know my Hardtail’s. When you said 120 fork with plus tires, I instantly knew👍 there’s NOTHING wrong with Quick release. My 2021 Gt avalanche was a 141 boost QR and the bike performed flawlessly. Kinda wish I never sold it. But even now having two bikes with boost(hardtail and full sus). I can’t tell a damn difference. I think it’s just a way for the bike industry to sell more bikes and for people to throw/sell there old ones. Keep killing it brotha💪 #hardtailsforhardmen
@joshuaallswang8016 Thanks, will do. Just finished talking to a couple guys who are e-bike converts, but I plan on going "analog" as long as possible. I turn 57 next month and still prefer riding under my own power. Keep the rubber side down and just Enjoy the Ride.
I just had a budget of £2K and so went for a quality hardtail rather than a mediocre full-sus. I also try to include some decent climbs to push myself so for me this was a good compromise. When we walked up Snowdon and Cadair Idris, we saw lots of Mountain Bikers coming down some really steep descents on hardtails - so I guess descents on hardtails are manageable with skill. I'd certainly rather have good brakes on a hardtail rather than rear suspension and mediocre brakes.
I bought a full rigid All Terrain Bike and kitted it with the biggest front tire I could fit. It smoothed the whole ride out and made it a fair bit more difficult than usual to push. But push it I did and with that training I was finally able to pick up a hard tail for the first time ever! I loved it! They have way better handling and braking characteristics than a full suspension. With that said I'm not a sender and anyone looking for speed with a lil fun in the air should consider a hard tail.
I started on a hardtail, switched to a full sus for 2 years, then went back to a hardtail.... I have not missed my full suspension bike, but I SEVERELY missed my hardtail for those 2 years.
On a hard tail you need to be work the bike more / rider more actively compared to a full sus. Lots of moving around the bike to unweight on the rear wheel or push the rear down as the trail needs. Another difference is that your choice of rear tire can completely changes the feel of the bike. The bound and rebound of the tire is felt directly, changing tires helped me tackle let fatigue as the new ones have a bit less rebound
I ride my hardtail xc bike in the netherlands (Not much elevation about 30 m where i ride) but my top tip is choosing the lines is really important (GMBN made a video about this awhile back)
Absolutely love riding my hardtail. Feeling everything on the trail is a huge positive for me, as well as the simplicity and budget of it. Plus it works as an equivalent of a gravel bike (ok I know it’s not quite the same) so far more riding options with it. No regrets at all about about choosing a hardtail over a full sus. Oh and great to hear 24” wheels mentioned. That’s actually what I ride - it’s perfectly suited to my height.
I love sending my xc hardtail bike and I love hardtails in general, specially since I still can't afford a full sus, gotta enjoy what you got and get the most of it!
At my stage of learning to ride mtb-on a hardtail-I feel like a full sus would lead me to get in over my head and be more likely to wipe out and get hurt. The feedback is a major part of the learning.
“Hardtails for Hard trails! ”Currently have a Full Suspension Giant Trance, but will NEVER forget my hardtail (2021 GT Avalanche), it was a killer bike and gave me great memories on it, looking forward to getting a hardtail again one day soon, this time as my second bike to mix things up!
If you're lucky enough to have more than one bike, a hardtail is a great option as an alternative bike - they really help give you a fresh perspective, even on trails you're really familiar with 👍
Hey, I simply love hardtails despite owning a Full Suspension Trail. As a matter of fact, perhaps like the majority, I've started in a HT. In Brazil, XC is way more popular than Trail so my first bike was a XC Hardtail. Opportunity came up and I switched to a Full Susp Trail which I also love but, had to quit on any possibility of podium in XC competition (In Brazil, XCM is very common). Today I also have a road bike for training but I am considering buying again a HT for Competition. So I will keep 3: my Trailbike, my road bike and, I hope, my XC HT
Line choice. Line choice. Line choice. Avoid insanely rocky trails, just hell when there's no line to pick. Body suspension goes only so far. Love the Hardtail!
I am loving my new Giant Fathom 29er. Our local trails are pretty boring, but I can explore with this one and go into the Florida black diamonds. Everything is pretty flat. I have even been able to get into the Vortex to do some jumping.😊
Still got my old Giant XTR HT from 2012. Will never give it up - so clean and light and simple. Climbing delight. Dreading having to replace it when the drive train dies...
Never ridden a FS on trails, every one I looked at in a shop was so much heavier than my Hardtail. Maybe someday, but for now, I like the lighter, more flickable bike.
I bought a full sus over 20 years ago didn't ride as much because I never felt comfortable on it, bought my hardtail and love it looking to ditch the 3x8 drivetrain for a 12x1 best upgrade yet were the DMR V12 pedals yes I run flats.
I’ve got 2 bikes. A full suspension and a Hard Tail. The FS is for the weekends trail riding. The HT XC is my commuting bike and for taking part in XC events.
I’ve got a hardtail fat bike (On One fatty with a 120mm Bluto fork) and it’s hands down the best bike I own in terms of fun, style and performance for pounds spent. It climbs faster than my Whyte G160s and descends faster than my Cotic Bfe. Hardtail fat bikes. Serious dopamine 👌🏻
Recently, I built myself an aggressive hardtail, and suddenly, all my other bikes became obsolete. I had a 2014 trail bike that was sketchy on downhills and gravity stuff, so I bought a big travel freeride bike. However, it is a nightmare when commuting to the trails and back (I live in a pretty hilly town). After that, I built a carbon hardtail for cross-country rides. As my first trail bike became too old, I decided to try what aggressive hardtail feels like, built it, and realized that it actually can do everything and it is super fun. Commuting, climbing, jumping, trails, chunk... and it is just one bike and even one ride! Quick takeaway is you don't need 3-5-or-more bikes for each discipline and subdiscipline of MTB unless you really want to become "pro" at everything. Just buy hardtail, have fun, and be a true member of the community)
Some time ago I was riding with a friend on some trails, we both ride hardtails and all people that we saw asked us how we shred these trails so hard on a hardtail, so I like them😂🤘
Ppl not realizing how much the modern geometries pushed hardtails forward. It's incredible to see how modern hardtails are able to shred Wordcup downhill tracks from early 2000. And lot of times with even better time. Ofc it's bit harsher but with proper body work and well chosen components like vibrocore, thicker grips etc. pretty doable even for longer rides. Eventually even steel frame... than you really have nothing to complain about ...
I bought a full sus and a hard tail and I still choose my hard tail when it’s time to head out. It’s more fun on the trails and makes me a better rider
Fell in love with MTB when i bought a bike to commute on, but wanted to have a seperate bike for weekends so i dont trash how i get to work! Went for a Whyte 909 as got it at a bargain price! For a fixeed budget I could get way better spec for my money!
I have both hardtail and full suspension. I will take my hardtail almost every place I travel it have perform solid and less moving parts to brake Some times there are no bike shop around. I will ride up to some black diamond with it.
I bought a super cheap hardtail with shimano tourney groupset. I had to buy a new rear wheel cause the previous wheels’ axle and hub got destroyed. Its good to buy on a budget but dont sacrifice quality cause you will have a bad experience. Frame, hubs and suspension is the most important to look at when considering a bike
Just about to buy a new hardtail, I love them! Got my eye on a Whyte 529 the geo is absolutely spot on for me. Can't wait to get it and get out riding.
Love the hard-tail. Question: is 2x dying/dead? Is swapping to 1x going to make life easier in the long run (maintenance wise)? Keep up the good work folks!! Cheers
3x may be in a deep coma but I keep it alive. I will never downgrade to a 1x 😁 I ride gravel, rocks and road. I need the wide range of gearing without cross chaining like crazy.
@@radiocontrolled9181 interesting. When I had my first mtb, I never understood 3x transmissions. I always asked myself: why? Then, years have passed and we got the 1x. And now I truly understand that the 3x I bashed since forever is an even bigger pain in the butt that I've initially thought. It's so bad. Never understood it, never will. Way too many gears, redundancy, weight, confusion, complexity. And that front derailleur always has to be off. You fix it, it gets funky again. Even in deore XT. Interesting that opinions differ to such an extent.
I went from a full suspension Cross Country to a Carbon Fibre 29r ... I chose a 29r because I thought it would help compensate for lack of rear suspension. .. I assume I was correct ... my rides are usually about 5 hours continuous with a 15 minute break when possible and I really notice the difference in my body condition during the last few hours ... I'm definitely more sore so you do require better physical conditioning .... full suspension is really more comfortable after hours of riding but the speed and ability to climb allows you to cover more distance in the Hardtail ...
I've moved up to 29r hardtail, and can ride for 4-5 hours including several climbs though with a few more breaks than you. I'm 59, fitter and 15Kg lighter than when I was 39.
Have a Giang trance (140/140mm) here, a giant Faith, a Cotic BFe, Meta HT and now bought a nordest Bardino frame… when I will ride my trance again 🤔🤣 Hardtails rock 🤘🏻
My new canyon stoic arrives on Thursday, the suspension is 140mm, do you think I should put a more mm fork? I like to do a lot of descents, if you change it, which o
I started on a hardtail that I built up and love. Picked up a FS this year and it eats everything. Having gone for my first hardtail ride since getting the FS, I still love it. The FS gives me the confidence to push myself, the hardtail keeps me honest. Both are a ton of fun on the same trail for different reasons.
I started racing BMX, and later on MTB's, and later a FS. Everything seemed wrong. Lost my interest. Stopped MTB'ing. Years later bought a new HT and loving it! Will never make the mistake of getting a FS again
I am fairly new to mtb (had a hardtail on loan last year for a few months), it was a 27.5. Being a complete beginner I didn't need a fast rolling bike, instead I had a bike that was good through technical stuff, good to learn the basic techniques on and has the ability to accelerate fast and easy to change direction quickly if I get into trouble. Tried my son's 29er and although it rolled fast and easier over the rough stuff, It felt to cumbersome/big and gave me less time to handle what's coming. Yes of course with time on it I would be fine but I just preferred the 27.5, so that is what I'm going to get again 😊
Very excited and leaning towards picking up a hardtail. Would love your opinion on it for an older (58) yr old rider. I do train pretty hard with Kettlebells and ruck walking and have a 20 yr. old trek 850 with zero suspension. I stopped riding dirt because my elbows shoulders and lower back were taking a big beating. I definitely want to get back into it but I cannot afford a full suspension bike. I love the idea of a more responsive connected to the ground bike. I drive a manual transmission car if that explains anything lol. Just wanted your opinion on dealing with elbow shoulder and lower back issues. Generally speaking, they do not bother me but guessing after a few hours on the tracks I might have some aches. If you think I could get away with the hardtail, I would love to hear that!
Got the v3 scout because it shows up well in pictures for my family and it came in size xxl. My old hardtail is still great, but dented and needs paint. The scout is better than i expected in comfort, it jumps also jumps with less effort than my fs trail bike.
I'm a fan of the hardtails, due to its versatility and easy to maintain. Yup...it's harsh on your knees and ankles alright, at the same time it's teaching me not to be lazy on trails and made me thinking fast while riding...busy²... Hardtails will push you to your limits and gets you expanding that limits higher...maybe makes your harder and stronger too...haha maybe it's just me.
Got back into Mtb after 15 years, built myself a tank of a hardtail with a 2007 Norco Torrent (pristine) frame that i paid 20$ loll, build it up to modern standards with a 160 Pike ultimate, then bought a full (cause so excited to get back into the sport), was riding the HT more often than not, ended up selling the FS loll
I have a 2023 Devinci Kobain 29er, i'm super unsure if its the correct bike for me though, The size feels alright its a large and im 6'1. The bike feels somewhat strong, but I've found it a bit rough to ride on the Vancouver Island, BC, Canadian trails with lots of roots, we mostly have either walking trails or downhill here, I'm a bit scared of it holding up on drops of any sort, and I emailed Devinci themselves about doing any mild jumps on it and they said its just designed for trails, except our trails have lots of jumps so I dont know what to do. I have ridden BMX street and park for 25+ years of my life and MTB is new for me. I'm pretty sure I dont want to sell my bike to get a high maintenance enduro though. I hope they will honour the lifetime frame warranty no matter what, but I am somewhat disappointed I cant take it to the dirt jump park according to the company, guess i'll have to finally learn dirt jumps on the BMX as I dont want to own multiple mountain bikes, just one that can do it all basically.
HT bikes are awesome/ But the 'cheap' aspect of a hardtail leaves the chat when you start upgrading... XD. Riding an Orbea Laufey H10. Done break modifications, got beefy tires, wider bars. I am on the fence with buying a full sus. I can have only one bike and a HT seems to be a swiss army bike sort of deal. Can go shredding on Saturdays and ride with my kids on Sundays.
Are you thinking of buying a hardtail? If you’ve already got one, what’s your top hardtail tip? Let us know below 👇
Choose your line, its still going to be bumpy ride. 😂
Be extra thoughtful and experimental with your tire choices. You don't have rear suspension to aid traction, and "too much" tire can also nuke the potential benefits of a HT (lighter, more efficient). Learn the least amount of tire/traction you can get away with. A fast, zippy HT is so damn fun..
Rear tyre insert!
Choose the bike that suits the trails you're going to be riding 80% of the time. No need to buy a LTHT for flat tracks or an XC bike for very hard trails
Get out of the saddle when you're riding over roots. It does not feel good.
Picked up a hardtail instead of a full sus because I wanted to keep even the most boring local trails somewhat fun for my day to day riding. Do not regret even a bit.
That is the hardtail super-power! They really connect you with the trail and make you appreciate whatever it is you're riding.
@@gmbn yeah.... I got a cross country 29er hardtail it's around 10kg, hydraulic breaks, air fork and all the other good stuff.... on a downhill the speed and responsiveness feels GODLIKE pumps the adrenaline to ALMOST uncomfortable levels but it feels SUPER AMAZING!!!
Like being bucked by a donkey ? How do you know how that feels ?
@@douglasalexander4348what??? Your comment makes no sense🤣
@@fasdrI agree, I have a XC hardtail (BMC two stroke AL 1) currently around 23 pounds and with a alloy frame, I enjoy riding it more then my full suspension trail bike! Nothing like a XC hardtail race weapon!
This one Person in the park that shred it all on a HT. Be this guy;)
Due to Blakes awesome „hardtail advertisement clips“ I couldn’t resist. Bought a Scout frame and a complete full sus on sale, took off the parts, sold the FS frame and got a really nice spec hardtail on a really low budget. And I just LOVE it, most fun bike I ever had! Thanks Blake 🤘
I just got my first hardtail at 59, learning now how to jump and whip, hopefully I don't whip myself into the ER. Maybe another 15 years I think about ebike.
Love my GT Avalanche hard tail, I do everything on that bike. From training to hitting the local trails.
I have one too. Upgraded everything except the fork. That’s next but it super fun.
@@blaccteezy I have also done some upgrades on mine. SLX cranks, XT pedals, ODI grips, 180mm rotor and SRAM chain. Gonna upgrade the fork next
@@nevillepretorius8948 I have an Oval Chainring, AdventX 1x, PNW Loam Dropper, specialized tires, corki grips, rock bros pedals, riser bars, short stem, basically everything lol. What colors your? Mines Black/Neon Yellow
@@blaccteezy wow really cool upgrades! Mine is grey and orange. Its a 2021 model.
Avalanche is a damn good hardtail, i love their tail designed coz it's functional and really absorb some vibrations so it won't be too harsh on your legs..
I love Hardtails, so much simpler to set up and maintain. If I had to give one tip, I'd say learn to use your legs as suspension when you're going over rough stuff, it's a good workout and really makes it feel like you're part of the bike.
Good call 👍 Getting your body position right to really make the most of your legs is great for improving your riding on your hardtail, but also carries over to full suspension bikes too!
Do you find the being one with the bike is better with or without clipless pedals?
@@joshallen1846 I ride flats, but I'm not a pro or anywhere near it, personally I don't see the point in going to extremes like that when it's just for pleasure. I also wouldn't feel comfortable being clipped to the bike, I like the security of being able to take my foot off easily when the need arises.
@@DJ.V-W yep I completely agree I have hardtail at the moment and was looking to upgrade this year maybe and had my eye on a Nukeproof scout high spec or a budget level full sus and I think I’m going for the scout just for the sheer fun I already have on my Vitus Nuclues, as for pedals I too love being able to get my feet down when I need too
@@gmbn and once you learn to relax and go with the flow it REALLY feels like you are one with both the bike and the trail especially when you start to move yourself almost predicatively withe the bumps so much so you don't feel a thing 'cause you do the motion as it happens...... it feels like flowing water and you being a part of it and that feel of being one with the flow is AMAZING!!!
I only have a hardtail and its the only one I can afford, but the fun it gives me way exceeds its relative affordability. 🤟🏻 I'm not closing my doors on having a full sus someday, but I can't complain on the one I got. It does what it's supposed to give me: pure unadulterated fun! 🥰
Same here bro and I love it 😀
If you're having fun on your bike, that's all that really matters - however much travel it has 🤟
@@gmbn I run on a 140mm travel on a small 29er frame. We don't have too gnarly trails but I've done jumps, drops, gaps and some moderately technical sections - even fun races - and in my 9 months of mountain biking, I would say the progression has been quite satisfying. Loving the hardtail. Couldn't say it enough. 😊
@@K.V.P14 couldn't agree more. 🤙🏻
Big up maan :) Ppl have tendency to overbike for what they riding. That causing all fun and challenge to leave the chat :D I spending majority of a year in Netherlands. No hills or gnarl.... Vitus Sentier VRS 27,5 doing splendid job. Pumptracks, dirts, skatepark, flowy trails ... He is true Do it all machine and i love it. Got myself pair of maxis icons for pavement and keeping original schwalbe for Holidays in Slovakia where this beast still can keep up with FS on natural trails. 2000euro and i am able to ride wherever i want.... For bikeparks i am borrowing FS from them without the constant need for regular maintenance of that nasty linkage :D
I love my hardtail. It's great for the type of riding I mostly do. I'm not a fan of losing my power to squishiness.
I started on a HT thirty plus yrs ago, then went to full suss over a period of nearly 25 yrs. I decided to go back to a HT after riding several 27.5+ demo bikes. I ended up buying a 120mm forked Plus HT 3 yrs ago and haven't regretted it one bit.
Let me guess… trek Roscoe🤔
@joshuaallswang8016 Yep, 2020 Roscoe 8. Bikes were getting scarce due to supply at that time, and I managed to get the last size large in my area. It may not have the through axle in the rear, but that hasn't been an issue just like the first thirty years of riding (I have never had a QR fail). I upgraded the fork and went with a shorter stem and wider bar. Still loving it for my type of riding; hand cut/natural terrain and black diamond rated tech/rock/exposure.
@@johnnydoe66 that’s what’s up man, sick bike. I just know my Hardtail’s. When you said 120 fork with plus tires, I instantly knew👍 there’s NOTHING wrong with Quick release. My 2021 Gt avalanche was a 141 boost QR and the bike performed flawlessly. Kinda wish I never sold it. But even now having two bikes with boost(hardtail and full sus). I can’t tell a damn difference. I think it’s just a way for the bike industry to sell more bikes and for people to throw/sell there old ones. Keep killing it brotha💪 #hardtailsforhardmen
@joshuaallswang8016 Thanks, will do. Just finished talking to a couple guys who are e-bike converts, but I plan on going "analog" as long as possible. I turn 57 next month and still prefer riding under my own power.
Keep the rubber side down and just Enjoy the Ride.
I just had a budget of £2K and so went for a quality hardtail rather than a mediocre full-sus. I also try to include some decent climbs to push myself so for me this was a good compromise.
When we walked up Snowdon and Cadair Idris, we saw lots of Mountain Bikers coming down some really steep descents on hardtails - so I guess descents on hardtails are manageable with skill. I'd certainly rather have good brakes on a hardtail rather than rear suspension and mediocre brakes.
Great points 👍
Indeed you can partly substitute rear shock with legs, fading overheated brakes and crappy eagle gears not so much. :D
My GT Avalanche works for me. Trails, fitness and fun upgrading some bits.
I bought a full rigid All Terrain Bike and kitted it with the biggest front tire I could fit. It smoothed the whole ride out and made it a fair bit more difficult than usual to push. But push it I did and with that training I was finally able to pick up a hard tail for the first time ever! I loved it! They have way better handling and braking characteristics than a full suspension. With that said I'm not a sender and anyone looking for speed with a lil fun in the air should consider a hard tail.
I started on a hardtail, switched to a full sus for 2 years, then went back to a hardtail.... I have not missed my full suspension bike, but I SEVERELY missed my hardtail for those 2 years.
On a hard tail you need to be work the bike more / rider more actively compared to a full sus.
Lots of moving around the bike to unweight on the rear wheel or push the rear down as the trail needs.
Another difference is that your choice of rear tire can completely changes the feel of the bike. The bound and rebound of the tire is felt directly, changing tires helped me tackle let fatigue as the new ones have a bit less rebound
I ride my hardtail xc bike in the netherlands (Not much elevation about 30 m where i ride) but my top tip is choosing the lines is really important (GMBN made a video about this awhile back)
Absolutely love riding my hardtail. Feeling everything on the trail is a huge positive for me, as well as the simplicity and budget of it. Plus it works as an equivalent of a gravel bike (ok I know it’s not quite the same) so far more riding options with it. No regrets at all about about choosing a hardtail over a full sus.
Oh and great to hear 24” wheels mentioned. That’s actually what I ride - it’s perfectly suited to my height.
The blooper at the end...one of many reasons why I love this channel. Great info and great personalities.
One bike quiver here...love my Yeti Arc!
Never a dull moment with Blake around 🤣
I love sending my xc hardtail bike and I love hardtails in general, specially since I still can't afford a full sus, gotta enjoy what you got and get the most of it!
Love a hardtail- Scout isn’t too bad choice Blake & Anna 👊
At my stage of learning to ride mtb-on a hardtail-I feel like a full sus would lead me to get in over my head and be more likely to wipe out and get hurt. The feedback is a major part of the learning.
“Hardtails for Hard trails! ”Currently have a Full Suspension Giant Trance, but will NEVER forget my hardtail (2021 GT Avalanche), it was a killer bike and gave me great memories on it, looking forward to getting a hardtail again one day soon, this time as my second bike to mix things up!
If you're lucky enough to have more than one bike, a hardtail is a great option as an alternative bike - they really help give you a fresh perspective, even on trails you're really familiar with 👍
My GT Avalanche is alsoba 2021 model, I love it!🤟
You will never forget your hardtail and all the great memories from way back in 2021.
I ride a hard tail for the same reason that I drive a stick shift, I feel more connected to the trail/road. Cheers
My father always says: I want to drive, not to be transported like a bananas. :D
im still ridin a no sus fully stiff steely n im still shreddin trails!
Adding a dropper to my 10-year old mild XC hardtail was game changing.
Hey, I simply love hardtails despite owning a Full Suspension Trail. As a matter of fact, perhaps like the majority, I've started in a HT. In Brazil, XC is way more popular than Trail so my first bike was a XC Hardtail. Opportunity came up and I switched to a Full Susp Trail which I also love but, had to quit on any possibility of podium in XC competition (In Brazil, XCM is very common). Today I also have a road bike for training but I am considering buying again a HT for Competition. So I will keep 3: my Trailbike, my road bike and, I hope, my XC HT
Line choice. Line choice. Line choice. Avoid insanely rocky trails, just hell when there's no line to pick. Body suspension goes only so far. Love the Hardtail!
Absolutely love my Nukeproof Scout! Hardtails bring so much fun.
I just picked up a 2022 Rocky Mountain Growler 50, on sale at Rocky Mountain here in Canada and I am simply blown away with this bike.
I just got a Ragley Blue Pig, he has been out on the coastal path but not yet hit the trails
I am loving my new Giant Fathom 29er. Our local trails are pretty boring, but I can explore with this one and go into the Florida black diamonds. Everything is pretty flat.
I have even been able to get into the Vortex to do some jumping.😊
I've been riding a Trek Roscoe9 and loving this trail weapon
Sticking with a hardtail; work commute, trails, dirt brevets, gravel, tours....one that does it all.
Still got my old Giant XTR HT from 2012. Will never give it up - so clean and light and simple. Climbing delight. Dreading having to replace it when the drive train dies...
Never ridden a FS on trails, every one I looked at in a shop was so much heavier than my Hardtail. Maybe someday, but for now, I like the lighter, more flickable bike.
So glad I decided to pick up a nukeproof scout frame last year, cause everytime I see it in this channel it makes me want to go for a ride.
I went from hardtail to full suspension back to hardtail as I feel a lot more connected to the trail, yes it's very bumpy but it's fun.
The fun is the important part 👍
@@gmbn yes indeed couldn't agree more
I bought a full sus over 20 years ago didn't ride as much because I never felt comfortable on it, bought my hardtail and love it looking to ditch the 3x8 drivetrain for a 12x1 best upgrade yet were the DMR V12 pedals yes I run flats.
I’ve got 2 bikes. A full suspension and a Hard Tail. The FS is for the weekends trail riding. The HT XC is my commuting bike and for taking part in XC events.
I’ve got a hardtail fat bike (On One fatty with a 120mm Bluto fork) and it’s hands down the best bike I own in terms of fun, style and performance for pounds spent.
It climbs faster than my Whyte G160s and descends faster than my Cotic Bfe.
Hardtail fat bikes. Serious dopamine 👌🏻
Recently, I built myself an aggressive hardtail, and suddenly, all my other bikes became obsolete.
I had a 2014 trail bike that was sketchy on downhills and gravity stuff, so I bought a big travel freeride bike. However, it is a nightmare when commuting to the trails and back (I live in a pretty hilly town). After that, I built a carbon hardtail for cross-country rides.
As my first trail bike became too old, I decided to try what aggressive hardtail feels like, built it, and realized that it actually can do everything and it is super fun. Commuting, climbing, jumping, trails, chunk... and it is just one bike and even one ride!
Quick takeaway is you don't need 3-5-or-more bikes for each discipline and subdiscipline of MTB unless you really want to become "pro" at everything. Just buy hardtail, have fun, and be a true member of the community)
Some time ago I was riding with a friend on some trails, we both ride hardtails and all people that we saw asked us how we shred these trails so hard on a hardtail, so I like them😂🤘
Ppl not realizing how much the modern geometries pushed hardtails forward. It's incredible to see how modern hardtails are able to shred Wordcup downhill tracks from early 2000. And lot of times with even better time. Ofc it's bit harsher but with proper body work and well chosen components like vibrocore, thicker grips etc. pretty doable even for longer rides. Eventually even steel frame... than you really have nothing to complain about ...
I’m considering getting a used rental Rocky Mountain Growler 40 for a good price at a LBS in Arizona. The shop maintains their bikes very well.
I bought my hardtail so I could learn and go bikepacking with it. Two years later I love it and see no reason to get a full sus.
I bought a full sus and a hard tail and I still choose my hard tail when it’s time to head out. It’s more fun on the trails and makes me a better rider
Fell in love with MTB when i bought a bike to commute on, but wanted to have a seperate bike for weekends so i dont trash how i get to work! Went for a Whyte 909 as got it at a bargain price! For a fixeed budget I could get way better spec for my money!
Bought a Nukeproof Scout 275 a few months ago, done about 800 miles on it, great bike
I like having a rear rack with a bag on top. I don't ride trails much, but front suspension is good when rocks/roots come along.
I built myself a steel pole taival at the beginning of the year. Since then I only rode my HT....my FS propain spindrift has spider web on it 🤣
Definitely agree, i started with a hardtail absolutely loved everything about it,!
I’ve built my hardtail from ground up. But added a sr Suntour shock post for the seat. Very comfy 😊
I see you love the Nukeproof Scout. You are not alone ...
Just finished assembling a hardtail Stanton Swich9er with a Pike Ultimate in the front to ride the trails around Bromont, Québec, Canada 😊
I got a hardtail instead of full sus, it makes even simple trails allot of fun, once you learn to bunny hop the bike properly it's endless enjoyment
one thing that you forgot about in terms of versatility is that a hardtail will make a better commuter
Picked a hard tail way back in 2009, still my favorite.
Love the out take that was quality ..... Hanna that made me laugh propper and Blakes laugh is infectious lol
I have both hardtail and full suspension. I will take my hardtail almost every place I travel it have perform solid and less moving parts to brake Some times there are no bike shop around. I will ride up to some black diamond with it.
I went out on my hardtail the other day and loved it. It’s a different style of riding from my full sus but just as much fun.
I bought a super cheap hardtail with shimano tourney groupset. I had to buy a new rear wheel cause the previous wheels’ axle and hub got destroyed. Its good to buy on a budget but dont sacrifice quality cause you will have a bad experience. Frame, hubs and suspension is the most important to look at when considering a bike
Just about to buy a new hardtail, I love them! Got my eye on a Whyte 529 the geo is absolutely spot on for me. Can't wait to get it and get out riding.
Love the hard-tail. Question: is 2x dying/dead? Is swapping to 1x going to make life easier in the long run (maintenance wise)? Keep up the good work folks!! Cheers
2x is excellent especially for a hardtail
3x may be in a deep coma but I keep it alive. I will never downgrade to a 1x 😁 I ride gravel, rocks and road. I need the wide range of gearing without cross chaining like crazy.
My 1x has low gearing which is great for climbs but on good paths I can be in top gear even when going up slight inclines - so 1x is a compromise,
@@radiocontrolled9181 interesting. When I had my first mtb, I never understood 3x transmissions. I always asked myself: why? Then, years have passed and we got the 1x. And now I truly understand that the 3x I bashed since forever is an even bigger pain in the butt that I've initially thought. It's so bad. Never understood it, never will. Way too many gears, redundancy, weight, confusion, complexity. And that front derailleur always has to be off. You fix it, it gets funky again. Even in deore XT.
Interesting that opinions differ to such an extent.
I went from a full suspension Cross Country to a Carbon Fibre 29r ... I chose a 29r because I thought it would help compensate for lack of rear suspension. .. I assume I was correct ... my rides are usually about 5 hours continuous with a 15 minute break when possible and I really notice the difference in my body condition during the last few hours ... I'm definitely more sore so you do require better physical conditioning .... full suspension is really more comfortable after hours of riding but the speed and ability to climb allows you to cover more distance in the Hardtail ...
I've moved up to 29r hardtail, and can ride for 4-5 hours including several climbs though with a few more breaks than you. I'm 59, fitter and 15Kg lighter than when I was 39.
@@simonwebb7431 I started Cross Country Mountain Biking when I was 54 years old ... I'm 67 years old now ...
canyon stoic with 29x2.8 tyres and 180mm travel here!! it rides like a dream!!!
Have a Giang trance (140/140mm) here, a giant Faith, a Cotic BFe, Meta HT and now bought a nordest Bardino frame… when I will ride my trance again 🤔🤣
Hardtails rock 🤘🏻
My new canyon stoic arrives on Thursday, the suspension is 140mm, do you think I should put a more mm fork? I like to do a lot of descents, if you change it, which o
after life on a full-sus, went back to a hardtail. Rocky Mountain Growler 40, and I haven't stopped smiling!
I started on a hardtail that I built up and love. Picked up a FS this year and it eats everything. Having gone for my first hardtail ride since getting the FS, I still love it. The FS gives me the confidence to push myself, the hardtail keeps me honest. Both are a ton of fun on the same trail for different reasons.
Couldn't agree more 🙌
Eats everything except a tree
@@James-hh1lq If it's carbon frame then it can evenget eaten by tree :D
I started racing BMX, and later on MTB's, and later a FS.
Everything seemed wrong. Lost my interest. Stopped MTB'ing.
Years later bought a new HT and loving it!
Will never make the mistake of getting a FS again
loving the simplicity of a heard tail. bearings on the full sus always break in a short amount of time
I've got an old Orange P7 (steel frame, 26" wheels) and thinking of upgrading to a Nukeproof Scout Comp Alloy 275
I am fairly new to mtb (had a hardtail on loan last year for a few months), it was a 27.5.
Being a complete beginner I didn't need a fast rolling bike, instead I had a bike that was good through technical stuff, good to learn the basic techniques on and has the ability to accelerate fast and easy to change direction quickly if I get into trouble.
Tried my son's 29er and although it rolled fast and easier over the rough stuff, It felt to cumbersome/big and gave me less time to handle what's coming. Yes of course with time on it I would be fine but I just preferred the 27.5, so that is what I'm going to get again 😊
Same here, on 29 i feel like driving a freaking tank. I am 190cm and anyway prefer the nimbleness of 27,5 over rollover capabilities.
Picked up a Kona Lava Dome a few months ago. Having fun upgrading. It is now spec’d better than bikes 3x it’s initial cost. Hardcore!!
Upgrading your bike is part of the fun of owning it, although seeing your bank balance afterwards isn't 😂
Literally just bought one perfect timing for this video!!
We hope you enjoy it! 🤟
Very excited and leaning towards picking up a hardtail. Would love your opinion on it for an older (58) yr old rider. I do train pretty hard with Kettlebells and ruck walking and have a 20 yr. old trek 850 with zero suspension. I stopped riding dirt because my elbows shoulders and lower back were taking a big beating. I definitely want to get back into it but I cannot afford a full suspension bike. I love the idea of a more responsive connected to the ground bike. I drive a manual transmission car if that explains anything lol. Just wanted your opinion on dealing with elbow shoulder and lower back issues. Generally speaking, they do not bother me but guessing after a few hours on the tracks I might have some aches. If you think I could get away with the hardtail, I would love to hear that!
Got the v3 scout because it shows up well in pictures for my family and it came in size xxl. My old hardtail is still great, but dented and needs paint. The scout is better than i expected in comfort, it jumps also jumps with less effort than my fs trail bike.
My only bike is hard tail, its bring childhood memories when bike is just about fun ❤
Im in love with Nukeproof Scout for almost year
I was shopping for a hardtail. It made more sense on paper. Then I feel in love with a full sus and just bought it
I own a spectral 29 with a 170 fork which is great, I cant wait to get my Stoic in a few weeks though and enjoy the hrardtail life :D
I'm a fan of the hardtails, due to its versatility and easy to maintain.
Yup...it's harsh on your knees and ankles alright, at the same time it's teaching me not to be lazy on trails and made me thinking fast while riding...busy²...
Hardtails will push you to your limits and gets you expanding that limits higher...maybe makes your harder and stronger too...haha maybe it's just me.
Got back into Mtb after 15 years, built myself a tank of a hardtail with a 2007 Norco Torrent (pristine) frame that i paid 20$ loll, build it up to modern standards with a 160 Pike ultimate, then bought a full (cause so excited to get back into the sport), was riding the HT more often than not, ended up selling the FS loll
I have a 2023 Devinci Kobain 29er, i'm super unsure if its the correct bike for me though, The size feels alright its a large and im 6'1. The bike feels somewhat strong, but I've found it a bit rough to ride on the Vancouver Island, BC, Canadian trails with lots of roots, we mostly have either walking trails or downhill here, I'm a bit scared of it holding up on drops of any sort, and I emailed Devinci themselves about doing any mild jumps on it and they said its just designed for trails, except our trails have lots of jumps so I dont know what to do. I have ridden BMX street and park for 25+ years of my life and MTB is new for me. I'm pretty sure I dont want to sell my bike to get a high maintenance enduro though. I hope they will honour the lifetime frame warranty no matter what, but I am somewhat disappointed I cant take it to the dirt jump park according to the company, guess i'll have to finally learn dirt jumps on the BMX as I dont want to own multiple mountain bikes, just one that can do it all basically.
I only ride hardtails, I've never gone to full suspension. I've rented the full suspension, on some local mountain trial. I still prefer my hardtail.
Was at dyfi bike park in February, one lad on a hard tail 💚
Ti ht next for me, to go with my stanton, crush mx, zero 29 and laufey.
I'm really happy about my Hello Dave on the Germans Trails
I'm started biking 1year ago and I needed a new bike i am thinking of getting the trek Roscoe 8 I just want your opinion
Hey Blake! I have the Pike Select with 150 mm. Any significant diffferences with the Ultimate? I have a Paradox V3. Thanks in advance.
HT bikes are awesome/ But the 'cheap' aspect of a hardtail leaves the chat when you start upgrading... XD. Riding an Orbea Laufey H10. Done break modifications, got beefy tires, wider bars. I am on the fence with buying a full sus. I can have only one bike and a HT seems to be a swiss army bike sort of deal. Can go shredding on Saturdays and ride with my kids on Sundays.
I’ll be ordering a Rocky Mountain growler 20 this week
I think my riding would remain on paved and moderate packed unpaved with the hard tail. In that case, very good drive with a solid tail.
Thanks, I needed that!!
Hardtail is king. Love my tiktik.
🤔One said no setup get on and ride in the beginning and the other said setup is key when referring to suspension at the end 🤙🏾
Absolutely love my nukeproof hardtail, make for mega wheelies
Gr8 choice hardtail’s specially going fully rigid😅
I have both and much prefer my hard tail, so much so I'm going sell on the full suspension.
I like a hardtail it's so much fun ...
Picked up my HT Santa Cruz Chameleon and I'm loving it! Looking for another HT bike for my 15 yo boy, any recommendations as to wheels size?