Best Women’s Full Suspension Mountain Bikes

Full-suspension bikes are incredibly versatile and can range from XC bikes to hard-charging downhill bikes, making them an excellent choice for female mountain bikers of all levels. With brands such as Juliana, there are now more women’s-specific full-suspension bikes available in these categories. While they may not all have obvious differences in their geometry, women’s-specific bikes often come with a finishing kit like a saddle or handlebars that are more tailored to the female body. Here are some of the best full-suspension women’s mountain bikes we’ve picked out:

Juliana Roubion C S
MSRP: $5,949

The Juliana Roubion C S is an all-mountain and enduro beast with a carbon frame that provides 160mm of front and 150mm of rear travel. The mixed wheels allow for agility and rollover, making it easier to eat up obstacles and technical trails. This bike features Santa Cruz‘s patented VPP suspension system, which can be tuned to your needs. The geometry is adaptable and can be changed using the flip-switch to make the headtube slacker and drop the bottom bracket height for extra stability. With its fantastic performance, the Juliana Roubion C S is a great women’s-specific full-suspension bike that can take you from the bike park to winning races.

Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3
MSRP: $3,299

The Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 is a trail bike with progressive sizing, which is a solid choice from the reliable REI brand. The bike features different size wheels, different fork travel (120-130mm), and proportional chainstays to ensure the same performance for each rider. The wide 2.4″ Maxxis High Roller tires provide plenty of traction and stability on loose terrain, while the X-Fusion Manic dropper post with 100mm or 150mm of travel gives you more control on steep descents. At home on the trails or off-piste, the Co-op Cycles DRT 3.3 is a gnarly yet stable trail bike for women.

Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE 2
MSRP: $4,000

The Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE 2 is a fast and agile XC bike designed for women who want to race. This bike is designed around suspension that has been tuned proportionally for each size, so riders can get the most out of the bike. The 120mm travel and 29″ wheels provide a fantastic platform for you to blast through the trail center or whip the bike around the natural landscape. With its lightweight design, the Scalpel Carbon SE 2 is a great cross-country bike.

Juliana Furtado C S
MSRP: $6,299

The Juliana Furtado C S is a top-performing women’s enduro bike that features a carbon frame and 140mm of front and 130mm of rear suspension. The lightweight build makes it perfect for climbing while still being able to handle intense downhill trails with ease. This bike is ideal for riders who are looking to push their limits or even get into racing. With its exceptional performance, the Juliana Furtado C S is a top choice for women who want a high-quality enduro bike.

FAQs: Women’s Full Suspension Mountain Bikes

Q: What are the advantages of a full suspension mountain bike for women?

A: Full suspension mountain bikes come with a myriad of benefits catered to enhance women’s mountain biking experience. Full suspension mountain bikes provide superior comfort and control, especially on rough terrains, thanks to their front and rear shock absorbers. They absorb impact effectively, reducing strain on the rider’s body.

The suspension mechanics also provide improved traction, which translates to the wheels on the ground for longer, especially on uneven trails. This means better control and safer rides.

Many full suspension mountain bikes are designed specifically for women, with adjusted geometry to better fit a woman’s typically lower center of gravity (than that of a man). This means more comfort during long rides and better control over the bike.

Q: What should I look for when buying a women’s full suspension mountain bike?

A: When purchasing a full suspension mountain bike, several factors come into play.

• Fit: Ensure the bike’s size is appropriate for the rider’s height. Women-specific designs often feature a shorter top tube and taller head tube to accommodate a woman’s generally longer legs and shorter torso.
• Weight: Lighter bikes are easier to handle and maneuver, especially on uphill climbs. However, the lightest bikes can also be the most expensive. Finding a balance between weight and budget is key. Consider upgrading to carbon wheels at a later date.
• Suspension Quality: High-quality suspension will greatly improve your ride by absorbing shocks and smoothing out the trail. Look for bikes with adjustable suspension systems that allow you to tweak the firmness based on the terrain and your preference.
• Component Quality: Pay attention to the quality of the components like the gears, brakes, and wheels. Higher-quality components will perform better and last longer.

Q: How do I maintain my women’s full suspension mountain bike?

A: Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and performance of your full suspension mountain bike. Here are a few maintenance tips:

• Clean Regularly: After rides, especially on muddy trails, clean your bike to prevent dirt and grime from affecting the performance. Use a soft brush and soapy water, but avoid high-pressure water which can damage bearings.
• Lubricate: Keep the chain lubricated for a smooth ride. Use a quality bike lubricant, not just any oil. Remember to apply it to a clean chain.
• Check Tire Pressure: Always ensure the tires have the correct pressure before going on ride. Pump up tires with a quality bike pump to the recommended pressure. It affects how the bike handles and absorbs shocks. The right pressure depends on the terrain and your weight.
• Inspect Brake Pads: Worn brake pads compromise safety and should be replaced immediately. Check them regularly, especially if you ride on steep or rough terrains often.
• Regular Professional Servicing: Full suspension systems can be complex. It’s wise to have your bike serviced by a professional at least once a year. They can spot and correct issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.