How Much Travel Should You Have?

These days, when looking at a new or used mountain bike, it's no longer a question of suspension or no suspension, it's really a question of how much suspension. There certainly are exceptions, such as hard core XC racers, single speeders, but for most of you who are making mountain biking a part of your lives, suspension is in your future.

So how much do you need? For most people, a good trail bike with 4 to 6 inches of travel will make for a good, comfortable ride that will still pedal quite efficiently. This is the fastest growing category of mountain bikes and there are lots bikes to choose from. You can't help but have fun on this kind of bike.

If you're still trying to figure out what's right for you, check out our Guide To Suspension travel for more insight.

Photo: Santa Cruz Nomad 165mm Rear Travel - Look for an upcocoming review - Reprinted with permission from Santa Cruz Bicycles