The Different Suspension Choices Offered On Hybrid and Commuter Bikes

Basically there are two; front suspension forks and suspension seat posts. Hybrids, unlike mountain bikes do not come with rear suspension. They are not intended for the harsh off-road use that a mountain bike will have to cope with.Front Suspension ForksThese are the suspension components that you will see most frequently on a hybrid. They are usually fitted with coil springs, with a travel of 50 - 60 mm.There are various refinements available, depending on price. The most handy one to look out for is what's called "lockout". This is where there is the facility to lock the forks in place - very valuable if you are on a surface which doesn't call for suspension, as the motion of the forks absorbs energy.Scott is a manufacturer which fits most of its designs with suspension forks, so the Scott Sportster range is well worth looking at if you anticipate doing more than the average amount of track and trail riding. Another well-regarded bike carrying suspension forks is the Kona Dew FS.Suspension SeatpostsNot so often fitted to production hybrids is the suspension seat post. I find this astonishing, as they can really take the sting out of bumpy roads and potholes. They usually have a coil spring, although better models have an elastomer block inside. They can be calibrated to the weight of the rider.The Kona Dew FS is one of the few bikes you will find which offers a suspension post in its standard spec. They can obviously be retro-fitted at any time - they are widely available. Be careful to buy the correct diameter post though.So what are the advantages and drawbacks of suspension systems?You'll really feel the benefit of suspension if you do a high percentage of your riding on poor roads or on grass or gravel. A bike with suspension allows you to head off into the countryside each time the mood takes you.But there is a price to pay - expect a good suspension fork to add considerably to the cost of the bike. Furthermore, there will be a weight penalty and the suspension springs will soak up some of your pedalling power. Choose a fork with lockout, and remember to use it.You can install a suspension seat post to your bike at any time. The weight is not noticeable, and they are not that pricey.The choice is yours - what price do you put on comfort.