29 HT VS Dual Sus

[Heel Drop]

I just recently started MTB( 4 months ago) and did 7 races already .Love it no doubt . First bike 26 " HT and not a bad one at all , but I did the 70km on the weekend and really felt the kidneys at the end.

 

I am thinking about what I would buy when I upgrade and although I understand a 29 er might be more forgiving then a 26 " HT, I feel that maybe a dual will be the best all round in the long term.

 

I like the longer 50-70km races and will def be doing some stage races in future, but I also dont want a bike that that will be difficult to handle if I tackle a technical session.

 

My current HT is 13.3 kg so already on the heavy side and I can certainly get a good dual for less then 12kg which is already an improvement as well.

 

Some comments will be appreciated..............

[MrJacques]

For the kind of riding that you do I'd take the duallie.

[jared]

hi i have a 29er ht very fast and good but if you are looking for comfort go for 29er ST

[Vinnydabutcher]

Did Sani on a HT - body was hurting a bit but it can be done.

 

I would also say my FS is easier in the ruff stuff - especially DH.

 

However - you need to consider your riding style and pricing.

 

I prefer the single pivot-type FS - Scott, Spez, Santa Cruz - it just feels more responsive to me personally.

[DR ◣◢]

Dual Suspension bikes should be 26"or 27.5" at most and have no less than 140mm of travel from and back and come in 1x10 or 1x11 configuration only with a dedicated chain guide system.

 

29" bikes come in HT format with either rigid forks or short travel forks. Gears are optional.

 

I am stark raving mad and you should do what you want!

[Mr SingleTrack]

I say go for a ST, you'll welcome the comfort at stage races

[LOOK695]

I say go for a ST, you'll welcome the comfort at stage races

Would that be a 29ner or is a 26" still good enough?

[Guest]

test them all out on at least 10km and make an informed decision about what will work for you.

[Mr SingleTrack]

Would that be a 29ner or is a 26" still good enough?

I ride a ST 29er as it suits my riding style and the events that I do (and don't let anyone tell you 29ers are only for district roads, I ride at places like Kings Kloof without any hassles).

 

that being said, I agree with Karma, test them and see what you like...

[Heel Drop]

Would that be a 29ner or is a 26" still good enough?

 

Id say 29 but might wait and see maybe a 27half may be a good dual option

[Heel Drop]

If I do go dual what should I be looking out for ?

 

I see different pivot types and different travel distances ?

[LOOK695]

Id say 29 but might wait and see maybe a 27half may be a good dual option

There are so many options available. Makes for a difficult choice. 26" inch bikes are going for bargains at the moment

[Guest]

If I do go dual what should I be looking out for ?

 

I see different pivot types and different travel distances ?

 

Well, here's my experience:

Bike: GT Sensor 9er Pro, Full Suspension, 120mm front, 100mm rear.

Weight - Downside - 14.2kg

Fun factor - A lot.

Handling - not bad at all (lol)

 

Would i trade it for a 26er? never

Would i trade it for a HT? never

Would I trade it for another 29er, FS, with shorter travel? Probably.

Edited September 3, 2012 by Karma

[Mr SingleTrack]

If I do go dual what should I be looking out for ?

 

I see different pivot types and different travel distances ?

completely depends on the type of terrain that you are planning to ride. for most of the stage races in SA 100mm travel is sufficient, but there is nothing wrong with going 120mm if you please. More than 120mm will cost you to much time on stage races IMO

[Heel Drop]

I saw an article ( Bicycling) where they tested 10 Dual sus bikes and the Spec Epic Comp and PYGA ONE TEN 29 came out at the top

 

with the Scott sparck 29 elite and Giant anthem X also rated very good.

[Stewart69uk]

I just bought a 29er hard tail Momsen and kinda thinking i should have bought a DS bike my ass is sore after every race I know my body will get used it it but getting back on the saddle the next day with a bruised ass isn't fun, would i change to a DS? nah love my new HT even with the bruises maybe when the 27" start to drop down in price I'll buy a second bike with DS and see what I ride the most