Why Choose a Full Suspension Electric Bike? A Guide for Trail Riders
Written by: Rémy Rossi | December 19, 2024 | Time to read 4 min
Is splurging on a full-suspension mountain bike worth it? If you ride rougher terrain, a full-squish setup will make you faster, more confident, and happier on the trails.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
When it comes to riding off-road trails, mountain bikers can reach for a hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike. But which electric bike is best? In this article, I’ll explain why you may want to choose a full-suspension electric mountain bike. You can think of it as a love letter to full-suspension e-MTBs, but I’ll be realistic about some of the drawbacks of these squishy adventure bikes. All is not perfect in paradise? Don’t worry, it’s not that deep.
Pros of full-suspension e-Bikes
- Better traction on rough terrain
- Increased comfort on bumpy trails
- Better control for jumps and gnarly terrain
Why do full-suspension bikes even exist? Hardtails— bikes with front suspension only— are quite capable and can take on tons of demanding trails with confidence. However, the addition of a rear shock allows the back wheel to move and better respond to impacts, increasing traction, grip, and comfort. The complete suspension system absorbs shocks from obstacles like bumps, roots, and rocks to keep the tires in contact with the trail. As a rider, you’ll be more comfortable and have better control which is especially important on rough, technical terrain.
Full-suspension bikes are also more forgiving. Let me explain. Riders often describe being able to “bulldoze” through rough terrain because the bike can float over trail obstacles with ease. In contrast to a hardtail, full-suspension bikes mean you won’t have to be as careful with line choice— if there’s an unexpected root, your bike will likely ride right over it without issue.
Full-squish setups are more forgiving on your body, too. There’s less bone-rattling chatter because the suspension soaks up the bumps, meaning less fatigue. This increased wiggle room means you can simply point the bike down the mountain and let it rip— alright, there’s a bit more to it than that, but you get the idea.
Full-suspension bikes are also more forgiving. Let me explain. Riders often describe being able to “bulldoze” through rough terrain because the bike can float over trail obstacles with ease. In contrast to a hardtail, full-suspension bikes mean you won’t have to be as careful with line choice— if there’s an unexpected root, your bike will likely ride right over it without issue.
Full-squish setups are more forgiving on your body, too. There’s less bone-rattling chatter because the suspension soaks up the bumps, meaning less fatigue. This increased wiggle room means you can simply point the bike down the mountain and let it rip— alright, there’s a bit more to it than that, but you get the idea.
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Cons of full-suspension e-Bikes
- More expensive than hardtails
- Complex maintenance
- Heavier
- Less efficient over smooth surfaces
The clearest drawback of full-suspension bikes is the higher price tag. The addition of a rear shock, linkages, and frame pivots understandably adds complexity and cost to the bike. Those extra parts also mean maintenance or servicing will be more involved processes, and will cost more if you bring it to a bike shop. Dirt and grime can gradually make their way into the suspension systems and lower performance, and hard use in tough conditions can increase the need for more frequent servicing.
Full-suspension bikes will also weigh more than their hardtail or rigid counterparts. However, this isn’t a big issue for electric bikes since there’s a motor that’s helping you out. The full-suspension setup can add between 2 to 10 lbs. of extra weight and some riders can feel the difference when it comes to bike handling. The added weight shouldn’t be a deal-breaker when choosing the right electric MTB.
And sometimes riding a full suspension bike simply doesn’t make sense for the type of riding you’ll be doing. Full-suspension bikes are best suited to rough terrain but may feel slow, inefficient, or too “squishy” on smoother trails. The rear shock can lead to a bobbing sensation while pedaling uphill or over smooth surfaces. If you ride smooth singletrack, light trails, or paved roads, a hardtail is likely a better option.
Full-suspension bikes will also weigh more than their hardtail or rigid counterparts. However, this isn’t a big issue for electric bikes since there’s a motor that’s helping you out. The full-suspension setup can add between 2 to 10 lbs. of extra weight and some riders can feel the difference when it comes to bike handling. The added weight shouldn’t be a deal-breaker when choosing the right electric MTB.
And sometimes riding a full suspension bike simply doesn’t make sense for the type of riding you’ll be doing. Full-suspension bikes are best suited to rough terrain but may feel slow, inefficient, or too “squishy” on smoother trails. The rear shock can lead to a bobbing sensation while pedaling uphill or over smooth surfaces. If you ride smooth singletrack, light trails, or paved roads, a hardtail is likely a better option.
When a full-suspension e-MTB is right for you
Full-suspension bikes are the go-to choice for more demanding mountain bike disciplines, including trail, enduro, and downhill riding— even some cross-country bikes have a full-suspension setup. If you’re expecting to ride steep and chunky terrain, fly through jumps, or navigate rock gardens, full suspension is the way to go.
Full-suspension bikes show their strengths when the trail points downward. It may not be as efficient on the climbs, but a full-suspension adventure e-Bike will be the fastest way down the mountain. It provides more control over the rough stuff and increases confidence on descents. The added suspension also goes easy on your body and joints, ideal for riders who need that extra cushion.
Looking for model recommendations? I recently wrote about the 5 best electric mountain bikes of 2025.
Full-suspension bikes show their strengths when the trail points downward. It may not be as efficient on the climbs, but a full-suspension adventure e-Bike will be the fastest way down the mountain. It provides more control over the rough stuff and increases confidence on descents. The added suspension also goes easy on your body and joints, ideal for riders who need that extra cushion.
Looking for model recommendations? I recently wrote about the 5 best electric mountain bikes of 2025.
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💸 Do you want to sell your electric bike?
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced Trail Performance: Full-suspension electric bikes offer better traction, control, and comfort on rough terrain, making them ideal for steep descents, jumps, and technical trails. The added suspension absorbs shocks, reduces fatigue, and improves rider confidence.
- Consider the Trade-Offs: While full-suspension bikes excel on demanding trails, they come with drawbacks, including higher costs, increased maintenance, added weight, and reduced efficiency on smoother surfaces or climbs.
- Best for Rugged Adventures: These bikes are perfect for trail, enduro, and downhill riders tackling challenging terrain. However, for smoother trails or paved rides, a hardtail may be more practical.
