Banner Image

Freeride Bike Buying Guides

Introduction

Freeride bikes are purpose-built mountain bikes designed for riders who seek out adrenaline-pumping descents, jumps, and features. These bikes are engineered for riding mostly bike parks and extreme natural terrain. They're half a step away from downhill bikes: you can still pedal uphill with a freeride bike, although it's going to be at a crawl. Modern freeride bikes are so good, having a dedicated downhill-only bike isn't necessarily necessary.

Who Should Ride Freeride Bikes?

Freeride bikes are just the ticket for adrenaline lovers who can't stop pushing their limits, like:

  • Freeride enthusiasts
  • Bike park riders who sometimes want to climb their own mountains
  • Off-the-beaten-path adventurers who seek out extreme lines and want a bike that can withstand big jumps and cliff drops

Model Guides - Freeride Bikes

Key Features of a Modern Freeride Bike:

Modern Freeride bikes are engineered to provide maximum durability and performance in extreme terrain. Key features of these bikes include:

  • Rear suspension travel: Typically ranging from 160mm to 180mm, providing ample cushioning and control on rough terrain and big hits.
  • Front suspension travel: Ranging from 160mm to 200mm, at the maximum end of the range of what's available
  • Dual-crown forks are available either as an option or the default on some models
  • Wheel size: 27.5” wheels are popular for their agility and maneuverability, providing quick handling in technical terrain.
  • Tire width: 2.5” to 2.8” tires with aggressive traction
  • Handlebar width: Extra-wide handlebars (around 800mm) for maximum control and stability at high speeds and on big jumps
  • Stem length: Short stems for responsive handling
  • Dropper seatpost: Typically included as a standard feature
  • Head Angle: Slack head angle ranging from 65 to 66 degrees