29ers on the rocks

[jkurdys]

I realize that this may not be the least biased forum to ask this question but here goes: How do 29er hardtails compare to full suspension bikes in rocky singletrack conditions i.e. rocky flat sections, climbs and downhills? I was in Rothrock State Forest (near State College, PA) last weekend and it occurred to me that full suspension might be fine and all, but maybe being able to roll over things better would be more valuable than the added traction provided by a full suspension bike. With that said, I should say that I've never ridden a full suspension bike or a 29er--and the question arose in the first place because on the weekend in question, I had locked out my front fork because I was going over the bars too often with it opened up--so my real question pertains to the riding characteristics of each type of bike, their strengths and weaknesses, and the specific conditions each is suited for.

[Browne]

Hey jkurdys,

My Brain Fart article that I wrote a few weeks ago dealt with a very similar situation to the one you're asking about.

In short, yes, they roll over rocks better.

I wish I had more time to get into this with you, but we're on deadline!

Hope this helps!

http://www.dirtragmag.com/articles/page-farts.php?ID=119

[jkurdys]

Browne, your brain fart helped answer one of my lingering suspicions: namely that people riding 29ers tend to be far too expert to be trusted. After getting my butt kicked at Rothrock on numerous occasions, I'm not sure how much I can trust someone riding around out there on a rigid bike, and a singlespeed no less! No, seriously, I'm quite impressed with the 29er and singlespeed cliques and would like to join their ranks but the essence of my original question is concerned with whether this is an attainable goal--that is, for a novice rider, would a 29er or a full suspension bike make rock gardens more manageable and, if you want to wax theoretical, which would produce a better effect on the rider, in terms of good riding habits and technical proficiency?
Also, I recently heard that its harder to get going on a 29er, how does the Beast of the 'Burgh fair in this regard?

[wooglin-at-home]

for a novice rider, would a 29er or a full suspension bike make rock gardens more manageable and, if you want to wax theoretical, which would produce a better effect on the rider, in terms of good riding habits and technical proficiency?
Well, those are easy questions. You'll be more confident in the rocks with an FS, but you'll be lazy as well. For learning tech proficiency and good habits (i.e., picking a line), a hardtail can only be beat by a full rigid bike, whatever the wheel size.

[Browne]

for a novice rider, would a 29er or a full suspension bike make rock gardens more manageable and, if you want to wax theoretical, which would produce a better effect on the rider, in terms of good riding habits and technical proficiency?
Also, I recently heard that its harder to get going on a 29er, how does the Beast of the 'Burgh fair in this regard?

I think they will make rock gardens more manageable. BUT, and this is a big BUT, I don't think it's the best way to start.

I've always thought the best way to start out is with a fully rigid 26" geared bike. A fully rigid 26" bike doesn't let you make mistakes like a suspension bike or a 29" wheel bike. People who come into the sport on full sus bikes and clipless pedals develop bad habits from the start-- poor bunnyhopping and less overall finesse and even less strength.

with a rigid bike, you'll feel the difference of a fork or a 29" wheel. You'll have the skills to really use the equipment you have, and you'll be appreciative of it!

As for the get-up-and-go, it's apparent that there's a bigger wheel up front, but since the power is going through a smaller (26" wheel) wheel, it's not as painful as a 29er. That's what I like about it--it's a compromise--one that I've chosen for my specific reasons, and one that's catered to my strengths and weaknesses.

[Fergie]

Good points about starting on a rigid gearie with platforms. That will force you to learn a good set of skills.

On the other hand, full suspension and clipless have their own set of skills as well.

Both are important, and each will help you with the other.

26" vs. 29"? Both are good to ride, and get a feel for... and don't forget to try out a 24" bike as well. See how you like 20" wheel bikes, and if you ever get a chance, hop on a 48"!

Ride every bike you can, as much as you can, and keep an open mind. Never judge a bike until you have put in a few days on it in different conditions. There is no wrong bike, or wrong way to ride, and every skill you learn will always be there to help you. As time goes by, you will customize your bike and your riding style, and everything you have learned will make you a better rider.

[squirrl_poker]

As long as you are having fun and challenging yourself, you will improve as a rider. I used to ride a 26" ridged bike that was several sizes too small for me (with a seat post extender) and currently I ride a 4" full suspension 29" that is probably on the larger end of the fitting preference. When I stop and think about it, I really can't say there is a huge difference. While there physically is, I think it is outweighed by my body's and mind's ability to adapt. The difference in the way I rode/ride each is quite subtle and not something I could easily express. I'd probably make a horrible bike reviewer/connoisseur eh?

My favourite thing about the 29ers is their extra grip for carving turns. You can really lean into turns and maintain traction.

The 29er is going to bounce right over those smaller rock gardens. It's not as much about feeling each individual rock as it is about flowing over the general terrain shapes. If you are the kind of person who likes bombing hills I think the 29ers will feel more like that for you, even on flat ground. If however, you always like to know exactly where your wheels are, and want to be aware of everything they are negotiating, I'd say the 26" wheels are a more accurate incarnation.

In my opinion full suspension will never give you the same feeling of skipping over the uneven ground as the 29". With a 29" you won't have the same traction that a full suspension bike with negative travel will, but you will get a unique "faster" feel from the 29er. I think this is the result of almost flying over the ground. Like it feels to bomb down a hill. The forward momentum holds all other forces hostage. Like a rock skipping on the water.

So the 29" wheel is for going full speed ahead without regard to what you are traveling over, and the 26" wheel is for slower more deliberate maneuvering, both in turning and in weight shifting. Thats the way I see these two different styles leaning. Though, I am sure some people will prefer it differently. Whatever you want. You can do anything with any bike. It will just feel subtly different.

[squirrl_poker]

I really what to ride one of those...

Hey, do you guys recommend getting a bmx bike? I'm tempted because they are generally cheaper than mountain bikes, and it would give me something else to play with, to practice jumping and flatland style tricks.