Jun 27, 2025
Hardtail vs Full‑Suspension e‑MTBs: A Comprehensive Guide for Riders
Hardtail and full‑suspension electric mountain bikes both offer comfort compared to rigid models, but choosing the right type can significantly improve your ride. In this guide, we'll compare designs, performance, maintenance, and usage, helping you choose your next e‑MTB with confidence.
Why This Comparison Matters
Selecting between a hardtail e‑bike (which has suspension only in the front fork) and a full‑suspension e‑MTB (equipped with both front and rear suspension) affects how the bike handles typical British terrain, your comfort, and upkeep. Whether commuting to work or hitting rugged trails in the Peak District, the right bike makes all the difference.
1. Suspension System
Hardtail e‑MTB: Front suspension only. Suitable for smoother bike paths, canal trails, and well-maintained bridleways.
Full‑suspension e‑MTB: Comes with both front fork and rear shock. Ideal for rougher environments—forest roots, chalky descents, and wet winter trails.
👉 In summary: hardtails are lighter and efficient; full-suspension bikes provide superior comfort and control on rough ground.
2. Cost and Value
Hardtails: Generally more affordable (£1,000–£2,500), offering excellent value for everyday riders.
Full‑suspension: Typically priced from £1,500 to over £6,000, reflecting advanced suspension and frame complexity.
Choose based on your terrain and how much comfort, control, and durability you're willing to invest in.
3. Maintenance
Hardtail e‑bikes: Simpler design, fewer moving parts—easier to maintain and repair. Ideal for low-maintenance riders.
Full‑suspension: Requires more regular servicing of shock, pivot bearings, and seals. When maintained well, they’re durable—just be prepared for upkeep.
🔧 Tip: A professional service once or twice a year helps extend lifespan.
4. Handling and Control
Hardtails: Stable and manoeuvrable on smooth paths and urban environments.
Full‑suspension: Offers better traction and control on technical trails and uneven surfaces. Perfect for confident descending and tackling roots and rocks.
5. Speed and Efficiency
Hardtails: Lighter and more efficient on flat roads and gentle climbs. Better energy use and longer battery range.
Full‑suspension: Heavier but more stable on tricky terrain. Battery drains faster, but they maintain speed and confidence on off-road rides.
6. Comfort and Ride Quality
Hardtails: Adequate for smooth surfaces, but you’ll feel more vibration on rough terrain.
Full‑suspension: Dual absorbers make long rides much more comfortable, reducing rider fatigue and easing strain on joints.
Usage Scenarios
Hardtail e‑Bikes
Perfect for:
Urban commuting
Bike path outings
Light cross-country routes
Budget-conscious riders
Full‑Suspension e‑Bikes
Ideal for:
Mountain biking
Technical trails
Long epic rides
Riders who want comfort and control on rough terrain
Pros and Cons Summary
Aspect
Hardtail e‑MTB
Full‑Suspension e‑MTB
Price
✔️ More affordable
❌ More expensive
Weight/Power
✔️ Lighter & efficient on flats
❌ Heavier, more battery use
Comfort
✔️ Decent on smooth trails
✔️ Excellent on rough terrain
Control
✔️ Agile and responsive
✔️ Superior traction and stability
Maintenance
✔️ Simpler, reliable
❌ Requires routine servicing
Trail Capability
✔️ Light trails only
✔️ All-terrain & technical trails
Buying Guide: What to Consider
Budget: Hardtails approx. £1,000–£2,500 | Full‑suspension from £1,500+
Terrain: Smooth journeys = hardtail | Rough or varied = full-suspension
Maintenance: Simple upkeep vs more components
Experience level: Hardtails suit beginners | Full‑suspension best for experienced riders
Test Ride Tips
When trying bikes:
Assess comfort and fit
Test suspension performance
Notice gear and brake feel
Ride varied terrain: flat, hills, twisty paths
Check battery life during longer rides
Final Verdict
Hardtail e‑MTBs are ideal for practical, cost-effective transportation and light trail rides.
Full‑suspension e‑MTBs are better suited for adventurous riders seeking superior comfort, control, and performance across rugged terrain.
Why Choose Freesky?
Our range includes models to suit all riding needs:
Warrior Pro: A nimble full-suspension e‑MTB with 140 mm travel and Samsung-powered 48V 30Ah battery—perfect for technical British trails.
Alaska Pro: A long-travel, full-suspension powerhouse with 48V 41Ah battery—designed for endurance rides across diverse terrain.
Read More
Jun 20, 2025
Effortless Adventures Begin with a Full-Suspension Electric Mountain Bike
Full-suspension electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs) are redefining what’s possible on the trail. Whether you’re navigating the rocky descents of the Lake District or exploring forest paths in the South Downs, these bikes combine power, comfort and precision to give riders of all levels a smoother, more enjoyable off-road experience.
🚵 What Is a Full-Suspension e-MTB?
A full-suspension e-MTB is an electric mountain bike equipped with both front and rear suspension, designed to absorb impacts from rugged trails and improve overall ride stability. These bikes also feature a pedal-assist motor and high-capacity lithium battery, enabling riders to tackle climbs, cover longer distances, and ride with less fatigue.
In short, full-suspension e-MTBs deliver the perfect balance of power, control and confidence—making them ideal for UK riders exploring bridleways, moorland paths, and remote upland tracks.
Why Go Full-Suspension in the UK?
British terrain can be challenging—muddy woods, rocky descents, root-covered singletrack, and slippery climbs are all part of the fun. A full-suspension system helps you:
Smooth out harsh trails, reducing back and wrist fatigue.
Maintain traction on loose or uneven surfaces.
Ride longer and further, with less physical strain.
Control technical descents with greater precision.
Key Benefits for UK Riders:
✅ Comfort on rough trails
✅ Confidence on descents
✅ Better grip in wet or loose conditions
✅ Power assist on steep British climbs
Freesky’s Approach to Full-Suspension e-MTBs
At Freesky, we design full-suspension electric mountain bikes for real-world adventure. Our models blend premium components with rugged engineering, offering exceptional performance across the UK’s diverse riding environments.
🔧 Built for Performance
Hydraulic front and rear suspension systems absorb impact on demanding terrain.
Robust AL6061 alloy frames offer strength without added weight.
Plus-size tyres ensure maximum grip and shock absorption.
⚡ Powered by Proven Technology
Samsung battery cells in the Warrior Pro: 48V 30Ah
High-capacity Freesky cell battery in the Alaska Pro: 48V 41Ah
All batteries are UL 2271-certified for safety and durability.
🚴 Models Tailored for UK Riding
Warrior Pro
A responsive trail bike built for agile handling on twisty forest trails and rugged off-road tracks.
Alaska Pro
A long-range machine with extended suspension travel and massive battery capacity—ideal for day-long epics across British countryside.
Eco-Friendly Off-Roading
Choosing a Freesky e-MTB isn’t just a personal upgrade—it’s a more sustainable way to explore. By switching to electric transport, you reduce your carbon footprint while experiencing nature up close.
Why Choose Freesky?
Feature
Benefit for UK Riders
Full suspension front & rear
Comfort, control and technical capability
High-capacity battery options
More mileage on bridleways and trails
Durable frame & components
Reliable in UK weather & conditions
Premium motor & sensors
Smooth, consistent pedal assistance
British-based after-sales support
Confidence in servicing and spare parts
Ride Smarter. Ride Further.
Whether you’re upgrading from a hardtail or trying electric for the first time, a full-suspension e-MTB from Freesky opens up new possibilities. Ride further. Climb higher. Descend faster—with comfort, power and peace of mind.
Discover the Warrior Pro and Alaska Pro, and start planning your next off-road adventure today.
Read More
Jan 20, 2025
Can E-bikes Go Up Steep Hills? Exploring the Capabilities and Challenges
In the modern era of environmental consciousness and technological advancements, electric bikes, commonly known as e-bikes, have emerged as a popular mode of transportation. Their versatility, ease of use, and relative affordability have made them a favorite among commuters, fitness enthusiasts, and casual riders alike. However, the question remains: can e-bikes effectively conquer steep hills? This article aims to delve into this inquiry, examining the capabilities of e-bikes, the challenges they face on inclines, and the factors that influence their performance.
To understand the ability of e-bikes to climb steep hills, it's essential to first grasp the fundamental principles behind their operation. E-bikes are equipped with an electric motor that provides additional power to the rider, either through a throttle or by assisting with pedal power. This motor is powered by a rechargeable battery, which determines the range and duration of the bike's electric assistance. The amount of power delivered by the motor can vary depending on the model and settings, ranging from a subtle boost to a significant push.
When ascending a steep hill, the e-bike's motor must overcome the increased resistance caused by gravity. The steeper the incline, the greater the force required to ascend it. The performance of the e-bike on hills is influenced by several key factors, including the power of the motor, the capacity of the battery, the weight of the bike and rider, the gearing system, and the type of terrain.
The power of the motor is a crucial determinant. High-powered motors are better equipped to handle steep inclines, providing sufficient torque to overcome the resistance. However, powerful motors also tend to consume more battery power, limiting the range of the bike. Conversely, lower-powered motors may struggle on steeper hills, especially when carrying heavier loads.
The capacity of the battery is another essential factor. A larger battery can store more energy, allowing for longer periods of electric assistance. This is particularly important when climbing hills, as the motor may need to work harder and draw more power from the battery. Riders who frequently encounter steep hills may benefit from investing in a bike with a larger battery capacity.
The weight of the bike and rider also plays a role. A heavier bike and rider require more energy to move, putting additional strain on the motor and battery. Lightweight e-bikes may have an advantage on hills, as they require less power to propel.
The gearing system of the e-bike can also affect its hill-climbing capabilities. Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes often have multiple gears that allow riders to adjust the resistance when pedaling. Lower gears provide easier pedaling but slower speeds, while higher gears offer faster speeds but require more effort. Riders ascending hills may find it beneficial to shift to lower gears, reducing the amount of work required to pedal and relying more on the motor's assistance.
Terrain conditions can also influence the performance of e-bikes on hills. Loose soil, gravel, or slippery surfaces can reduce traction and make climbing more challenging. Riders should be aware of the conditions they are riding in and adjust their approach accordingly, such as reducing speed or taking alternative routes.
Despite these challenges, e-bikes are capable of climbing steep hills with varying degrees of success. The key is to choose a bike that is suitable for the rider's needs and the terrain they encounter. Riders may need to experiment with different settings and techniques to find the optimal balance between motor assistance and pedal power. Additionally, regular maintenance and proper care of the e-bike, such as keeping the battery charged and the motor clean, can help ensure optimal performance.
It's worth noting that not all e-bikes are designed for off-road or steep hill climbing. Some models are specifically tailored for urban commuting or casual riding on flat terrain. Riders interested in conquering steep hills should research and compare different models to find one that is suitable for their intended use.
In conclusion, the ability of e-bikes to climb steep hills depends on a variety of factors, including the power of the motor, the capacity of the battery, the weight of the bike and rider, the gearing system, and the terrain conditions. With careful selection and proper usage, e-bikes can be a viable option for riders who need to ascend steep inclines. However, riders should be aware of the limitations of their bike and adjust their approach accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Read More
