When it comes to selecting a mountain bike, women have quite a few things to consider. For starters, there is a big difference between hardtail mountain bikes and full-suspension mountain bikes. Hardtail bikes tend to be lighter but provide a rougher ride. Full-suspension bikes may weigh and cost a bit more, but the ride is a lot smoother. At least that has been my experience. Personally, I prefer a smoother ride. With that said, here’s a look at five of the best full-suspension mountain bikes for women:
Cannondale Scarlet 2
The Cannondale Scarlet 2 is a full-suspension, women’s mountain bike with bite. It sports 26 inch wheels, an aluminum frame and 3 x 10 gearing. I like the bike because it provides a cushioned ride. It also has ample stand over room and traction when you need it. The only downfall is that it tends to retail for around $3,300.
Fuji Belle 2.0
The Fuji Bell 2.0 is also a full-suspension, women’s mountain bike but it retails for less than most bikes in its category. Like the Cannondale Scarlet, it has 26 inch wheels, an aluminum frame and 3 x 10 gearing. It tends to retail for roughly $2,000. Depending on the size bike selected, the stand over height ranges from 742.7 to 757.2. In my opinion, it has a solid front and rear rotor break system, provides a non-jarring ride and has comfortable grips. It also weighs slightly less than 30 pounds so it isn’t too heavy to lift onto your car’s bike rack.
GT Avalanche 4.0 GTW
Ladies on a budget may want to check out the GT Avalanche 4.0 GTW. I fell in love with the bike for its $530 price tag, the sturdy frame and the quick shifting, 3 x 8 gearing. It has 26 inch wheels and linear pull brakes in the front and back that can be controlled with just two fingers.
Scott Contessa Spark
The Scott Contessa Spark is another women’s mountain bike that I am quite comfortable riding. It comes with an aluminum frame, 3 x 9 gears and 26 inch wheels. Some of the nice things about it is that it has good control, fast changing gears, ample shock absorption and weighs slightly less than 25 pounds. Unfortunately, it generally retails for close to $4,000.
Specialized Safire Pro
If you don’t mind a 2 x 10 gearing and a $5,000 price tag, the Specialized Safire Pro is also worth considering. It has an aluminum frame, a sweet Avid Elixir 7 SL braking system and 26 inch wheels. I also found favor with the XC low-rise handlebars and the grips. I found both to be quite comfortable to use.
Killeen Gonzalez enjoys riding bikes with her family and has traveled extensively.
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