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An all-mountain bike, often referred to as an “AM” bike, is designed to excel across a variety of terrain types typically encountered in mountain biking.

  • Purpose: It is specifically designed to balance climbing efficiency with downhill performance, making it versatile for various mountain biking trails.
  • Suspension: Features dual suspension (front and rear), with typically 4 to 6 inches (approximately 100 to 150 mm) of travel. This amount of suspension travel helps absorb impacts and vibrations from rough terrain, enhancing comfort and control.
  • Geometry: The geometry of an all-mountain bike is often more relaxed compared to cross-country (XC) bikes, with a slacker head angle and longer wheelbase. This setup enhances stability and confidence at higher speeds and on technical descents.
  • Components: All-mountain bikes are equipped with components suited for both climbing and descending. This includes robust frames, strong brakes (such as disc brakes), wide handlebars for control, and tires with aggressive tread patterns for traction in varied conditions.
  • Versatility: They are versatile enough to handle long climbs and technical descents found in mountainous terrain, hence the name “all-mountain”. Riders who enjoy a mix of cross-country endurance and downhill thrills often choose these bikes.

An all-mountain bike is designed to provide a balanced and enjoyable riding experience across a wide range of trails, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to explore diverse mountain biking experiences.

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