All Mountain Dual Suspension Mountain Bikes

What to consider when shopping for All Mountain Bikes

When shopping for all-mountain bikes, the most important thing to consider is how you plan to ride. All-mountain bikes are built for versatility, meaning they handle both climbs and descents without specialising in either. This makes them a strong choice for riders who want one capable bike that can tackle weekend trail rides, mixed terrain adventures, or longer all-day outings where conditions change throughout the ride. When choosing, think about the type of trails you ride most often. If you're transitioning from cross-country riding into more technical terrain, an all-mountain bike gives you the confidence to push further without needing a dedicated enduro or downhill setup. Suspension travel, geometry, and frame material all play a role in how a bike feels on trail, but the right choice comes down to matching the bike to your riding style and ambitions. Read our FAQs further down to learn what to look for when choosing the right all-mountain bike.

Commonly Asked Questions about All Mountain Dual Suspension Mountain Bikes

What makes an all-mountain bike different from a cross-country or enduro bike?

All-mountain bikes sit between cross-country and enduro bikes in terms of geometry and suspension travel. They are designed to climb efficiently while still handling technical descents, whereas cross-country bikes prioritise speed and enduro bikes prioritise aggressive downhill performance. If you want one bike that handles a wide range of trail conditions without being specialised in either direction, an all-mountain bike is the right choice.

How much suspension travel do I need for all-mountain riding?

Most all-mountain bikes offer between 120mm and 150mm of suspension travel, which provides enough cushioning for rough and technical terrain without feeling sluggish on climbs. Less travel suits smoother trails and riders who prioritise pedalling efficiency, while more travel is better for rockier or more demanding terrain. Consider the trails you ride most often when deciding where in that range suits you best.

What wheel size should I choose for an all-mountain bike?

The most common wheel sizes for all-mountain bikes are 29-inch and 27.5-inch, each with different ride characteristics. 29-inch wheels roll over obstacles more easily and maintain momentum better, making them popular for trail riding. 27.5-inch wheels are more nimble and responsive, which some riders prefer on tighter or more technical trails. Taller riders often find 29-inch wheels a natural fit, while shorter riders may prefer the handling of 27.5-inch.

Is an all-mountain bike suitable for a beginner?

All-mountain bikes can be a great choice for beginners who know they want to ride off-road on varied terrain from the start. They offer more capability than a hardtail entry-level bike, which means you won't outgrow the bike quickly as your skills develop. That said, beginners on a tighter budget may find better value starting with a hardtail before moving to a full-suspension all-mountain bike.

Do I need a full-suspension all-mountain bike or will a hardtail do?

Full-suspension all-mountain bikes provide better comfort, control, and traction on rough or technical terrain by absorbing impacts through both wheels. Hardtails are lighter, lower maintenance, and more affordable, making them a solid choice for smoother trails or riders building their skills. If you regularly ride rocky, rooted, or demanding singletrack, a full-suspension bike will noticeably improve your confidence and control.

How do I find the right size bike?

Finding the right bike size can feel tricky, as different bike types have slightly different geometries. To make it easier, we’ve created a Find Your Size tool. Simply enter your height and inseam measurements (or those of the person you’re shopping for), and we’ll recommend the best size for each bike and pre-select the recommended option for you.

Not sure of your inseam measurement? No worries! We provide an estimated inseam measurement based on your height to help keep your recommendation as accurate as possible.

You can find the tool on each product page or at the top of categories when browsing. Try Find Your Size.