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Mountain Bike Rear Shocks: Coil-Over And Shock Springs

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Published: March 20, 2007

There are many reasons why mountain biking appeals to people of all ages. It could be the great surroundings that a biker often sees on their bike journey, or it could also be the rush of riding across rough and unkempt terrain. Riding mountain bikes can be a rocky experience, leaving the bike and rider feeling ragged by the end of the day. Rear shocks can greatly ease the pain caused by rough rides.

Mountain bikes didn't used to have rear shocks. Up until the nineties, mountain bikes only had front shocks keeping the rider at ease. These bikes were called “hard tailed.” Fortunately, mountain bike manufacturers decided to improve upon the classic design that had been used for so long.

They eventually created full suspension mountain bikes that used rear shocks in addition to the ones in front. This created an easier ride for those who liked their terrain rough, but not their riding experience. Ever since the change, full suspension bikes have become more and more in the favor of professional mountain bicyclists.

There are two popular types of rear shocks that go on mountain bikes: air shocks and coil-over shocks. Each version is special and helpful in its own way. Where one style of rear shocks lacks, the other makes up for it. There are some important things to note when shopping for either variety.

Air shocks use air. They are lighter than coil-over shocks, making storing and transporting a mountain bike easier. Air rear shocks are also easier to calibrate, making them ideal for someone who just wants to get out there and go. Air shocks usually sell for $175 and up depending on the brand.

While air rear shocks are lighter and more customizable, they can't take nearly as much action as coil-over shocks can. Since mountain biking can be a rough sport, this is a very important aspect to consider. The biggest selling point of coil-over shocks is the durability. They're heavy duty and can take a lot of action. Coil-over shocks sell for as low as $240.

Shock springs are used on mountain bikes to hold the rear shocks in place. They also do a great job of helping with shock absorption. It's very important to find good quality shock springs to help for a smoother ride. When purchasing shock springs, weight must be considered. Each spring has a pound limit. Speaking with a bicycle shop employee can help even the most knowledgeable buyer choose the right spring. Compared to rear shocks, shock springs are pretty inexpensive at only $35 a piece.

Rear shocks can greatly improve the mountain bike riding experience. A bike without rear shocks becomes very painful after a few hours of riding. Be sure to purchase rear shocks to combat this problem. Nothing beats a smooth and comfortable ride through the mountains and tree-lined hills.


Sources:
"Mountain Bike." Wikipedia. 18 March 2007. 18 March 2007
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountain_bikes
An Introduction to Mountain Bike Rear Shocks. The Biking Hub. 22 Feb. 2006. 18 March 2007
http://www.thebikinghub.com/mtb/an-introduction- to-mountain-bike-rear-shocks/
Rear Shock Springs. Cambria Bicycle Outfitter. 2006. 18 March 2007
http://www.cambriabike.com/shopdisplayproducts.a sp?id=154&cat=Rear+Shock+Springs
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