When you look at an electric bike for sale on the internet like the Magicycle Cruiser Pro, what is one of the features that stand out? It is the suspension system for most riders. This is the component that determines how comfortable you will ride.
With the suspension system, the bike has better control, better grip, and more comfort on tough terrains. Lacking this component can put a lot of pressure on the rider. Your body works harder to keep the bike steady through the potholes and road.
Many people don’t know anything about ebike suspension though. And that is why we put together this guide. We will discuss everything you need to know about a bike’s suspension.
What is the Suspension on an E-Bike
An ebike’s suspension is not very different from a vehicle’s. It performs the same functions of dampening the shocks and vibrations on the road, improving comfort and stability for the rider.
A collection of springs and dampers are used to lessen the impact of the road vibration. It absorbs the effects of bumps, potholes, and road unevenness.
Without the shock absorber, the vibrations can travel to the bike frame, and even break it. Or it can affect the rider’s back.
If you are a rider with back problems, for example, you are better off investing in a full-suspension e-bike. This is a bike that absorbs shocks from the front and at the back of the frame, giving you more protection.
Even though an ebike can function perfectly without a suspension, having one can significantly affect your riding experience. It’s all about getting the best bike and ensuring you never get affected by the road’s impact.
What Are the Types of E-bike Suspensions Available?
Suspension e-bikes’ costs depend on the type of suspension system used. Currently, there are four main types, hydraulic, pneumatic, resistance rubber, and spring:
Spring Suspension
Spring suspension is the least expensive, and perhaps the least effective. It comes with metal coils that collapse during the absorption of the shocks on the ground. They offer a remarkable degree of damping, even though they are the least expensive. They are often used in combination with another system to make them more effective.
Pneumatic System
In this type, a combination of compressible gas and the air chamber is used to create an effective shock damping system. They deliver a comfortable ride, better than the spring suspension. However, they are relatively less expensive than the others mentioned below.
Resistance Rubber
Another common type of suspension system in modern e-bikes is the resistance rubber. These are custom systems created from unique elastomers delivering exception effects. They are lighter and more effective than pneumatic and spring, making them more effective in any terrain. Also, they require less maintenance and are simpler to modify.
Hydraulic Suspension
Hydraulic suspensions are the most expensive. Instead of using compressed gas and chambers like pneumatic systems, they use oil. The fluid in them promises more cushioning and damping than the other options above. Apart from being the lightest, it provides more effective cushioning.
What Are the Types of Ebike with Suspension?
Aside from understanding the types of suspensions, you may also want to know the types of bikes depending on the systems they use. In this case, there are two options, hardtail ebikes and full suspension ebikes.
Hardtail Ebike
Hardtail ebike comes with a suspension system attached to the front wheel. The bike’s frame is one complete unit, and hence, rigid.
This suspension offers cushioning only from the front. It is assumed that the legs provide back cushioning when the rider is standing.
Generally, hardtail ebikes are not the best option for rough roads and mountains. This is because they provide much less cushioning again the rocks, roots, and holes in the terrain.
Full Suspension Ebike
Full suspension ebikes, also known as softail ebikes come with an extra suspension unit at the rear side. So, instead of the absorption happening only at the front, it also takes place at the back.
Full suspension electric bikes are more effective for tough terrain riding. You can jump the obstacles high and land hard while riding at top speeds downhill and still feel comfortable.
The front and rear systems work together for the most effective performance. This makes them faster and more comfortable. They are recommended more for riders with back issues and those who want to ride far.
Do You Need the Electric Bike Suspension?
The simplest answer is yes. A suspension system on an electric bike plays the most crucial role in ensuring the best riding experience. Here are some of the advantages you get:
Comfortable Rides
Are you looking for the most comfortable ride? You need the suspension system on your bike. As stated earlier, the roughness of the road can put so much pressure on the rider. It has caused back problems for many riders.
The suspension system reduces the strain and stress of riding through rough terrains by absorbing bump shocks. It is, therefore, necessary if you want to enjoy those mountain adventures.
Better Control
With a duo suspension system, your bike has more traction. It ensures contact between the wheel and the road at all times, which gives the rider more control. You will find negotiating those hard corners much easier than if the bike did not have any.
Durability
One of the reasons ebikes break down too fast is the road roughness. When vibrations and shocks go directly into the bike’s frame and shake other parts, which can reduce its lifespan. The suspension system reduces this impact keeping your bike protected. Even though proper care and maintenance are still needed, the suspension helps to protect your bike more.
Conclusion
You need the suspension system if you are looking for the smoothest and most comfortable ride. The suspension you choose depends on your specific needs and where you will be riding.
For the mountains and rough terrain, consider the full suspension ebikes. While the cities are smooth terrain, the hardtail ebike will still do. We hope now you can make a more informed decision.
