Mountain bikes - 29" full suspension MTBs combine dual front and rear suspension system with large diameter wheels for excellent performance in off-road riding. Let's analyze the features and advantages of this type of MTB in detail.

29" full suspension frame

The frames of the full suspension 29" feature specific geometries to better handle oversize wheels. The main features are:

• Longer horizontal tubes: increase directional stability.
• More open steering angle: to balance the increased steering due to the larger wheel diameter.
• BB lowered: to shift the center of gravity downward and facilitate heel drop.
• Reduced standover height: makes it easier to get off the bike by lowering the height of the wheel rise.
• Rear extension: needed to make room for the 29" rear wheel.
• Structural reinforcements: to stiffen the frame subjected to higher stresses.

The most popular materials for 29" full suspension frames are carbon fiber, aluminum, mixed aluminum-titanium alloys. These provide rigidity while keeping overall weight down.

MTB full suspension 29

Shock absorbers for 29" wheels have specific characteristics:

• Increased travel: necessary to allow adequate travel of the increased wheel. It goes up to 150 mm in the front and 140 mm in the rear.
• Lower linkage ratio: more shock absorber travel is needed for each mm of wheel travel.
• Stiffer springs: since 29" wheels are inherently stiffer, the springs must also be harder for a balanced system.
• Hydraulic damping: essential for controlling the upper masses of 29" wheels at high speed.
• Dedicated compression and rebound settings: specially calibrated for large diameter wheels.

Geometries and frame sizes 29"

To identify the correct 29" frame size, one must consider:

• Higher ground height: affects the required pipe length.
• Size-for-size increase: 29" sizes are spaced 2 cm apart versus 1 cm for 26".
• Horizontal elongation: the horizontal tubes are longer to balance the increased headroom.
• Rear triangle width: must be larger to make room for 29" wheel.

Available sizes usually range from S to XL in 2 cm increments, equivalent to the corresponding 27.5" sizes and 2 cm larger than the 26" sizes.

Choosing the correct frame size should be done based on the desired ground clearance rather than relying on the traditional vertical tube height. Horizontal elongation compensates for the increase in front height.

Advantages 29" full suspension wheels

The advantages of 29" wheels on full suspension are:

• Improved downhill stability: the front wheel remains more composed due to the lower center of gravity.
• Improved roll-over ability: 29" wheels better level out unevenness in the ground.
• Optimized line holding: large-diameter wheels follow a smoother trajectory.
• Increased ability to overcome obstacles: you can overcome rocks and depressions more easily.
• Better rear traction: the 29" rear wheel stays well anchored to the ground.
• Increased comfort: better vibration absorption given the larger footprint on the ground.
• Higher downhill speed: Lower center of gravity and high inertia increase maximum downhill speed.

Potential disadvantages

The disadvantages of the full suspension 29" pair are few:

• Higher price: frames and suspension for 29" are more expensive and complex.
• Slightly higher weight: frame reinforcements and stronger suspension affect total weight.
• Slower initial rotation: the inertia of 29" wheels makes them less agile in sharp low-speed turning.
• Feeling of buoyancy: in bends, the very low center of gravity can give a vague feeling of instability.
• Difficulty in front lifting: the larger diameter of the front wheel makes it more difficult to lift.

Overall, the strengths far outweigh the few negatives. The 29" and full suspension combination is nearly unbeatable in challenging off-road riding.

Ideal use

Full suspension with 29" wheels are at their best:

• Downhill on very technical and steep trails: unparalleled stability and damping.
• On uneven and bumpy trail surfaces: excellent roll-over ability.
• Uphill on steep slopes: optimal traction and traction.
• When cornering: maximum line holding and precise trajectories.
• In high-speed driving: control and composure even at 40+ km/h.
• On mountain trails with high frequency of obstacles: optimized overcoming.
• For tall, high center of gravity riders: they lower the center of gravity.

Full suspension 29" full suspension bikes are the ideal choice for gravity enduro, downhill and the most technical and grueling trails, where they best express their strengths.

Optimal setup

To get the most out of a full suspension 29" full suspension, an accurate setup of:

• SAG: critical for optimal wheel-ground contact. 25-30% front, 30-35% rear.
• Excursion: increase the stroke to involve the excursion with 29″ wheels.
• Extension damping: medium speed to avoid rebound and provide traction.
• Compression damping: low in front for sensitivity, high in back for support in turns.
• Springs: stiff to compensate for less flexibility of 29″. Volume inserts for progressiveness.
• Pressures: slightly higher than 26" to balance the larger footprint on the ground.

A careful setup, combined with a specific 29" calibration, is essential to take full advantage of the benefits of large diameter wheels combined with a full suspension.

Conclusions

In summary, the combination of full suspension and 29" wheels has proven successful in modern mountain biking. 29" wheels enhance the strengths of dual suspension in damping, traction and braking. At the same time, full suspensions enhance the rolling and line-holding qualities of 29". A perfect combination for downhill and the most technical and grueling trails.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about MTB Full Suspension 29

1. What does "29" mean in the MTB Full Suspension 29? The number "29" refers to the size of the wheels, which are 29 inches in diameter. These wheels offer better obstacle clearance and greater stability on rough terrain.

2. What are the advantages of Full Suspension 29 MTBs over other wheel sizes? Full Suspension MTBs with 29-inch wheels offer greater speed on flat terrain and better ability to overcome obstacles. They are also more stable at high speeds and maintain inertia better.

3. Are full suspension 29 MTBs suitable for all cyclists? Full Suspension 29 MTBs may be suitable for many cyclists, but the choice depends on personal preference and the type of trail you plan to ride. Some cyclists may prefer other wheel sizes for more technical terrain.

4. Can I use Full Suspension 29 MTBs even on urbanized terrain? Yes, you can also use Full Suspension 29 MTBs on urban roads and trails. However, they are designed primarily for rough terrain and you might consider other options if most of your riding is on smooth surfaces.

5. What is the handling difference between 29 Full Suspension MTBs and smaller wheel sizes? Full Suspension 29 MTBs offer more stability and speed, but may require slightly more effort to turn than smaller wheel sizes such as 27.5 inches. The choice depends on your riding style and preferences.

6. Are full suspension 29 MTBs ideal for competition? Full Suspension 29 MTBs are also popular in competitions because of their ability to maintain speed over varied terrain. However, the choice depends on the type of competitions and your riding skills.

7. What does "Plus" mean in MTB Full Suspension 29 Plus models? The term "Plus" refers to bicycle models with 29-inch wheels but with larger tires. These wider tires provide greater traction on slippery and uneven terrain.

8. Are full suspension 29 MTBs suitable for long distance riding? Yes, many Full Suspension 29 MTBs are designed to tackle long distances. Suspension contributes to comfort, while 29-inch wheels can cover more ground with less effort.

9. How can I adjust the suspension on full suspension 29 MTBs? Suspension can be adjusted according to your weight, terrain and riding style. Check the compression, rebound, and locking settings for the best riding experience.

10. What is the typical price range for Full Suspension 29 MTBs? Prices vary by brand, specification, and performance level. High-quality Full Suspension 29 MTBs can range from moderately expensive to more expensive, depending on the features desired.

Remember that the answers provided are general and informative. Before making a choice, it is advisable to seek further specific information and, if possible, try out different bicycles at specialty stores.