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First of all, let’s look at the terms: As Hardtails is referred to as E-bikes that only have a suspension fork, i.e. they have no rear suspension. Fully is the Abbreviation for full suspension, i.e. with front and rear suspension. Rear suspension naturally also means higher material costs for manufacturers: shock absorbers, bearings and additional levers obviously cost money and add to the weight. Depending on the spec, the average weight increase for a full-suspension e-MTB is between one and two kilos.
When it comes to e-bikes, there are more arguments in favour of the full-suspension e-MTB
Whilst there are a number of arguments in favour of a hardtail when it comes to a traditional, non-motorised bike, the decision between a rigid main frame and full suspension on an e-MTB is mainly a question of budget. The reason: a lightweight, non-motorised hardtail saves a huge amount of energy when climbing and can be easily manoeuvred over obstacles off-road. Both of these advantages are lost on a motorised bike.
This is a case for full-suspension e-bikes
- Greater comfort
- Greater safety when going downhill
- “only” 1–2 kilos heavier than the e-bike hardtail
An e-MTB hardtail is only marginally lighter than its full-suspension counterpart, and it is difficult to take the weight off the rear wheel. If you ride aggressively, you’ll feel every root and every stone relatively unfiltered. The advantages of rear suspension in terms of comfort, safety and riding dynamics are often underestimated by beginners. Anyone who rides off-road seriously and frequently will, sooner or later, find that a full-suspension e-bike is essential. Incidentally, the comfort advantage is more pronounced on an e-mountain bike than on a non-motorised bike, as you spend much more time in the saddle on an e-MTB. This means that with a rigid rear end, far more impacts are transmitted directly to the spine. The e-hardtail, however, scores slightly better when it comes to servicing and adjustment. This is because the missing bearings and shock absorbers do not require maintenance or adjustment.
The case for e-bike hardtails
- cheaper than full-suspension e-MTBs
- Easier to service
The following online shops offer a wide selection of e-mountain bikes:
