Looking to bring your rides to a whole new level with full suspension mountain bikes for trails? Well, read on.
We’ve gathered some of the best full suspension mountain bikes you can actually buy. Consider these if you want to take your rides up a notch. Here, you can find bikes from under $1,000 to much higher price points, with top-notch quality components.
These are versatile workhorses that you can use to discover the best trails hidden all around the place.
If you are looking for the best eMTBs, then click here
— For Beginners —
Cannondale Habit 5
Winner! Best FS Bike for Trails
What is the best affordable full-suspension mountain bike? Do you know? We do.
Cannondale Habit 5 introduces riders to the dual-suspension world with ease. It is meant as a stepping stone in the full suspension world, especially for riders who plan to stick around.
It comes equipped with a Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain with a wide-range 11-51T cassette and a 30T crankset.
When it comes to the colors, this model is available in a beautiful jet-black paint job!
The Habit 5 is by far the best full-suspension mountain bike for trail enthusiasts who are interested in learning the ropes of riding front and rear squish.
Thanks to an aggressive head tube angle, the handling is stable and perfectly suitable for challenging trails and descents, which is what most riders aspire to do.
It has 140mm of front travel provided by a RockShox 35 Silver R. The rear shock is a RockShox Deluxe Select from the same quality class with 130mm of travel. A dropper post is included in the package as well.
The Habit 5 is equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes which means a lot on the trails when you’re attacking sketchy descents and need precision and power.
This bike is available in four sizes and rolls on 29″ wheel with 2.4″ Maxxis Ardent tires.
Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3
Size-Specific Wheels
Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 is a good-looking trail bike intended for intermediate riders and those who are still learning the ropes of hitting jumps and speeding around berms.
This is an all-around capable model that does well on singletracks, in parks, and even on downhills thanks to its large 29″ wheels. Though, keep in mind that the XS and S frame sizes come with 27.5″ wheels, which guarantees an ideal fit for all types of riders.
The front and rear suspension will dampen vibrations when you’re riding off-road and give you a lot more control and grip when the terrain becomes rough.
Learn more: Mountain Bike Suspension
The RockShox Revelation Motion Control RC fork offers 120-130mm of travel (depending on the frame size), and the same goes for the RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock.
Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 is a fantastic full-suspension bicycle for trail enthusiasts who want size-specific wheels and the best bang for their buck thanks to an affordable aluminum frame.
DRT 3.3 also comes with a 1×12 Shimano SLX drivetrain that consists of a 10-51T cassette and a 32T crankset. A granny gear like that will never leave you lacking the right cadence for any hill. The stopping power is ensured by Shimano SLX hydraulic disc brakes with plenty of strength that is not often seen in this price range.
Full overview of Co-op Cycles DRT Series
All in all, Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 is a bargain as it gives you more than enough in terms of performance and style but doesn’t leave you without a dime in your pocket!
— For Trails & Racing —
Devinci Spartan A 29 GX
Best for Technical Descents
MSRP $4.799
The Devinci Spartan A 29 GX is an attractive and capable trail bike that will make itself visible on the trail in numerous ways. The most important of those are speed, great components, sturdy 29″ wheels, and versatile capabilities.
Devinci Spartan is an aluminum bike that offers outstanding value for its price which is reflected in the carefully picked parts. Moreover, it has tons of travel, which makes it a serious contender on the trails.
If you’re an experienced trail rider or you’re planning to become one, the Spartan bike is right for you. It offers 170 mm of front and 160 mm of rear travel with its Rockshox ZEB fork and the Rockshox Super Deluxe rear shock.
If you want to have a bike that’s capable of bombing any descent, you should aim for a bike with plenty of travel and even more stopping power, such as Devinci Spartan.
Devinci Spartan has a super-slack head tube angle that allows the bike to react the moment it gets input from the rider.
Other positive aspects include powerful SRAM Code R hydraulic disc brakes, and a high mid-range SRAM GX Eagle 12-Speed rear derailleur.
Honestly, there are few bad things we can say about Devinci Spartan. It’s a well-balanced trail bike that offers a lot of value for the money and looks super sleek as well.
Santa Cruz Blur C S
Best Carbon Frame
MSRP $5,499
A top-notch carbon trail bike for around $5,500 can give you a lot in terms of on-trail performance, precision, and fun. Santa Cruz is shaking the market with this high-end Blur Carbon C trail machine that we can best describe as exciting! Of course, we understand it costs a lot of money, but it’s not that much when you consider the value you receive.
The Blur C S is an outstanding trail bike that features 29″ wheels, stiff and responsive handling, and mid-range reliable Shimano Deore components.
When you’re on the trail and hit the downhill part of the track, all you will be worrying about is travel. Luckily for you, the Blur boasts a RockShox SID Select+ fork with adjustable travel and a lockout option for climbing. Therefore, you will have maximum squish when the trail becomes the hardest.
The rear shock is a RockShox SIDluxe Select+, which also has several levels of adjustability to fine-tune your ride.
On top of that, this Blur model comes with ultra-strong SRAM Level TL hydraulic disc brakes with massive rotors, as well as Maxxis 2.4″ tubeless-ready tires. It’s a combination that translates to confidence on the challenging trails.
All in all, not many bikes will give you as much as Santa Cruz Blur C S for such an attractive price.
Revel Rail GX
Best Pedaling Performance
MSRP $5,999
The Revel Rail is one of the best full-suspension bikes for gravity riders you can get right now. It has super-long travel and super-slack geometry, so there are few downhill courses that will present a challenge for it.
The best thing about this bike is definitely the CBF suspension that can transform the bike either into a pedaling machine or into a descending monster. It all depends on what you need at the time. The RockShox Lyrik Select fork and Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock offer 170mm and 165mm of travel, respectively.
Revel Rail is built around a lightweight carbon frame with a 65-degree head tube angle. This aggressive geometry will help you descend faster and tackle more technical trails.
Component-wise, the SRAM GX Eagle groupset puts 12 gears at your disposal. The SRAM G2 R hydraulic brakes will stop you on a dime and help you control your speed easily. That’s possible thanks to massive rotors.
One of the more impressive parts of Revel Rail is its Maxxis Minion DHF 2.5″ (f) and 2.4″ DHR II (r) tires that grip any kind of surface. Plus, they are wrapped around Industry Crank Bros. Wheel Synthesis Alloy Enduro I9 rims that are tubeless-ready.
Bottom line: Revel Rail is one of the best full-suspension mountain bikes on this list for a reason! All in all, if you want some of the best components with a reasonable price tag, this carbon beast is the best FS bike for enduro courses.
Kona Process 153 DL
Crème de la Crème of All-Mountain Riding
MSRP $4,199
The Kona Process 153 DL is a flagship bike with a versatile nature that will allow you to use it for different types of riding.
This Kona full-suspension mountain bike has a very high bottom bracket which means that you can finally start going more “over” obstacles than trying to find a way “around” them. It’s a great choice to tackle rockier terrain thanks to the higher ground clearance.
This bike isn’t cheap, but it has some mouth-watering components and offers top-class performance. What impressed us the most and what you’ll like the most is the RockShox Lyrik Select RC fork and RockShox Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock. They provide 160mm and 153mm of travel and come with some handy adjustments.
Few things can get in the way of the Kona Process 153 DL and hold their ground against its massive wheels, progressive geometry, and high travel.
What also makes this bike special are the Maxxis Assegai 2.5″ and Minion DHR II 2.4″ tires. The SRAM NX/GX Eagle groupset does not need any special introduction. The same can be said for SRAM G2 RS brakes.
The head tube angle is very slack at 64.5 degrees, which is just right for more aggressive rides. This slack geometry is excellent for riders who like testing their limits and choosing challenging lines.
In conclusion, if you want to hit the podium in races, the Process is the bike that will help you do it.
Santa Cruz Nomad C R
Best Race-Ready Full Suspension Trail Bike
MSRP $5,649
If we had to use just one word to describe Santa Cruz Nomad C R, it had to be FUN. If we could use two, then we’d characterize it as fun and capable.
Santa Cruz Nomad C R is a versatile high-end trail bike that can jump, descend, drop, and set rough and loose trails on fire.
The Nomad plows trails with a Maxxis Minion 27.5″ x 2.4″ rear and a Maxxis Assegai 27.5″ x 2.5 front tire. These are some of the best tires you can find on any trail bike out there.
The SRAM NX Eagle groupset is a real treat in this price range — it gives you 12 speeds, a wide-range drivetrain, and precise shifting.
Braking is provided by SRAM G2 RE hydraulic discs, combined with massive rotors that will disperse heat and enlarge the braking surface.
For those who like spending the day outside or even multiple days, Santa Cruz has allocated enough room for a water bottle cage on the frame.
All in all, don’t hesitate to get Santa Cruz Nomad C R if you want a high-performing and fun trail bike that’s ready for races and all sorts of mountain adventures.
Bottom line is that the Nomad is one of the best full-suspension mountain bikes out there for the price.
— For Maximalists —
Yeti SB150
Best Value Race-Ready Enduro Rig
MSRP $8,600
If you still haven’t considered this modern USA-based manufacturer as your next bike supplier, maybe it’s time to change that. We’ll try to do it by showing you the fantastic new Yeti SB150. This is the company’s entry ticket into the elite enduro and all-mountain bike scene.
Yeti SB150 comes with 29″ wheels that make it nimble, fast, and predictable even on the most challenging trails.
This bike comes with a super-stiff carbon frameset with a premium Switch Infinity suspension. This combination will fill you with confidence and give you utmost control when storming technical descents.
One thing that puts Yeti SB150 in the enduro category is the luscious 170 mm of travel on the Fox Factory 38 GRIP 2 fork, combined with a Fox Factory X2 150mm rear shock. Thanks to the Switch Infinity translating pivot, the pedaling and braking forces will not affect the suspension performance.
This bike has a slack head tube angle of 64.5 degrees which makes it ride really well on the descents and roll over obstacles with its huge wheels. On the other hand, the seat tube angle is quite steep, which makes this Yeti bike a great climber as well, as you will need to get yourself up those hills before you can go down.
Let’s also not forget the Shimano XT 12-speed derailleur operating on a 10-51T cassette, with a rich gear ratio for any hill profile. The brakes are Shimano XT 4-pivot hydraulic discs, which have impressive stopping power in all conditions thanks to massive rotors.
In conclusion, you should get Yeti SB150 if you want to win races or fall in love with all-mountain and enduro riding all over again.
Ghost Lector FS LC Universal
Best Carbon Trail/XC Race Bike
MSRP $5,800
Ghost Lector FS LC is a carbon fiber masterpiece of a trail bike. It has a long list of amazing features and massive 29″ tires to support you on your way to the top of trail riding. That’s why it is one of the best full-suspension mountain bikes.
First of all, we should tell you about the RockShox SID Select+ fork with 120mm of travel, which is more than enough to get you over any obstacle on a high-paced run down the trails. It also comes with a SID LUXE Select+ rear shock.
When you get this bike out on the trails and the suspension starts working its magic with the help of the huge 29″ tires, you will realize that Lector’s price is more than justified.
This Ghost model also boasts high-quality SRAM GX components. It comes with a 12-speed drivetrain that will let you pedal where you thought it was impossible to do so before. The brakes are SRAM Level TLM hydraulic discs, with 180mm front and 160mm rear rotors.
In conclusion, the Ghost Lector FS LC Universal is the perfect carbon trail/XC bike to choose if you have big dreams.
Ibis Mojo 4
Best Carbon Trail Bike
MSRP $5,949
The Ibis Mojo 4 is made for fast and playful rides on technical trails that demand both guts and skills. It comes with 27.5-inch wheels, which makes it perfect for shredding descents. It’s built from carbon fiber, so it’s incredibly lightweight and super stiff.
See more: Full Review of Ibis Bikes
The biggest highlight of the Ibis Mojo 4 is its suspension. It’s incredible and makes the bike so capable.
The fork is a RockShox Pike Ultimate RC2, whereas the rear shock is Fox Float Factory Series DPS. You can select the perfect setting for any trail that you ride. All that is to help you break boundaries and reach new heights on the trail.
The Mojo 4 has Shimano Deore components, including a 12-speed drivetrain with a 10-51T cassette. The brakes are the M6100, so you’ll be able to stop on a dime anytime.
The Mojo 4 is one of the models from Ibis aimed towards experienced trail riders who want to get as much bang for their buck as possible.
In conclusion, if your ideal trail ride is playful and creative and with a lot of challenging downhills that get your heart pumping hard, Ibis’ Mojo 4 will be your best friend.
— For Women —
Liv Intrigue Advanced Pro
Best Freeride Mountain Bike
MSRP $4,299
Liv Intrigue Advanced Pro is a very capable full-suspension mountain bike. It’s intended for brave women who want to completely immerse themselves in the world of off road riding.
Related: Full Review of Liv Bikes
It’s built around an carbon frame with a tapered head tube, internal routing, a downtube guard, and exquisite suspension.
The fork is a Marzocchi Bomber Z2 (140mm) with air spring pressure and rebound adjustments. The rear is a Fox Float Performance shock has plenty of adjustability as well. It allows you to customize how the bike behaves depending on the terrain and your riding style.
Liv Intrigue also touts a SRAM SX mid-range 1×12 drivetrain with a huge 11-50T gear range. You can climb a wall with it!
The star of the show is the Maxxis Minion front and Dissector rear tire. They are 2.5″ 2.4″ wide, which means you will not be lacking grip no matter the terrain or surface.
Experienced riders will also know enough to appreciate Shimano MT420 hydraulic disc brakes that will embolden both male and female riders to take new and more challenging lines on their future rides.
So, if you’re on the lookout for an affordable and capable freeride bike with massive tires and dependable components, Liv Intrigue is the one.
Juliana Furtado CC X01 Reserve
Best Women’s Full-Suspension Bike
MSRP $8,949
We can wrap up this list with an excellent women’s trail bike that easily proves its worth on the rides. Juliana Furtado CC X01 Reserve is a high-end full-suspension bike with a steep price and several aces up its sleeve.
If you’re a female trail enthusiast looking to have as much fun on the trails as possible and excel in different categories, Juliana Furtado CC X01 Reserve will meet all your needs.
This is a versatile 27.5″ carbon trail bike intended for a little bit of everything on the trail. It has 140 mm of front and 130 mm of rear travel provided by a RockShox Pike Ultimate fork and a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock. This setup will let you go absolutely berserk on the downhills. It’s more than enough to deal with most obstacles on your rides.
Juliana Furtado CC X01 Reserve has a slack head tube angle of 65.7 degrees. It is perfect for downhill trail rides. It ensures a nimble, springy, and responsive ride. You will truly feel the response of the bike to every bit of input you give it.
However, considering that Juliana Furtado has a bulky FS setup, it has a slightly higher weight as well. The SRAM G2 RSC hydraulic disc brakes do a fantastic job of supplying you with more than enough stopping power.
All in all, if you have expectations and you want a well-equipped women’s trail bike that can do a little bit of everything, we believe that this Juliana Furtado model is the one.
Didn’t find the right bike? Consider pre-owned Full Suspension bikes on The Pro’s Closet
But, which one should you choose?
We’ve analyzed thousands of bikes so far which has taught us a lot of details about them, so we can help you out to make the right choice.
Riders who want to excel on trails on an FS bike should choose Cannondale Habit 5. If you want one of the best freeride models and you plan to ride hard, choose Liv Intrigue Advanced Pro and you will get great value for your money. If you’re looking for a capable beginner or intermediate model with 29″ wheels, you can’t go wrong with Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3.
But, if you’re updating to a more capable carbon trail bike, Devinci Spartan is for you. If your ideal type of mountain biking is trail and enduro riding, definitely check out the Yeti SB150. However, if you’re looking for a top-tier aluminum trail bike that you can use for racing and exploring, then Ghost Lector is for you. We can’t recommend the Revel Rail anymore if you want a fun and versatile all-mountain/enduro bike that can do it all in the mountains.
If you have money to spare and you want a top-of-the-line bike, Ibis Mojo 4 will make you happy. However, if you want the best spec’d all-rounder that’s fun and challenging to ride, choose Santa Cruz Blur C S. Santa Cruz Nomad is a phenomenal trail bike that you can buy if you want an all-around great performer.
If you want the best suspension setup you can get on this list for the money and 29″ tires, then Kona Process is the right pick for you. If you want the best women’s model and you have the money to spare, choose the Juliana Furtado CC X01 Reserve.
Happy trailing!
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Hello Jeff:
Thanks for your super quick response when I wrote on the Bike Size article. The suspension article you directed me was super. Now I have a clear idea of what should be the front and rear travels for all-mountain. Also that my size is an L for sure.
Having said that, you ask me If I rode on pavement, and I do not only on trials. Based on what I told you about me in the other article that I wrote to you, an been an intermediate rider, what full-suspension bike will you recommend me worth $3000 or under.
If you can give me 3 choices that will be great if I do not put you on a spot.
The choices I gave seem only OK and not great so I need to explore other great options. Can you help me, please?
Thanks so much for all your help.
Hi Guillermo,
I see. Thanks for the update. Let me see… can you check out my article about Best Full Suspension Mountain Bikes For Trails? So far these are the best brands within the price-range tou asked for.
I like the the Ghost FR AMR 6.7 . Due to tire size and coil over rear suspension. Does it come in carbon or just aluminum ?
All FR AMR models come with aluminum frames. But Ghost has other FS bikes with carbon frames, such as SL AMR 6.9 and 9.9.