Almost everyone dreams of an adventurous activity away from the hustle and bustle of the city in this busy and fast-moving life. For me, as a cyclist, there is no better getaway than taking a bike ride to a wonderful track or mountains. All you need to have some moments by yourself is a soft bicycle and an adventurous spirit to explore.
If you don’t own a softail bicycle and are still considering buying one, this blog is a perfect guide. I’ll describe what a softail bike is and what features you should look for before purchasing a bicycle.
Let’s start with the explanation of what a Softail bicycle is.
What is a Softail Bicycle?
Softail bicycles were famous among mountain bikers about a couple of decades ago, but with the increasing popularity of full-suspension rigs, they fell out of fashion. One main reason behind the epic comeback of softail bicycles is the trend towards mixed surfaces in road riding.
A Softail bicycle has a short-travel shock fitted between the seat post and seat stays. These bicycles now provide rear compliance to remove high-frequency vibration and chatter.
These short-travel shocks were just elastic material in some older models. But with the revival of the softail bike, many changes have been made to make it perfect for long, bumpy rides.
I will obviously look into the features of the Softail bicycle before buying one, so you should as well.
Factors to Consider While Buying A Softail Bicycle
Buying a softail bike is tough because multiple options are available when purchasing a mountain bike. Here are the significant factors you should consider while buying a softail bicycle.
1. Frame Materials
Bicycles particularly have two types of materials used to form the frame. The details of the materials are given below so it is easy for you to choose according to your preferences.
- Carbon is used in the manufacturing of bicycles, but it might not be your first choice as it is lighter, stiffer, and more expensive.
- Another material used in bicycle manufacturing is alloy. It is more compliant, absorbs impact better, and is less costly.
2. Selecting the Right Wheel
You have multiple options when it comes to the selection of the perfect wheels for your bicycle. A few of the standard selections of bikers are:
- 29-inch Wheels are popular among bikers because they roll over obstacles easily and carry speed, but they might also feel cumbersome on sharp turns.
- 27.5-inch Wheels fall into the general category. They are more playful and more accessible to manoeuvre, making them ideal for bike park rides.
- The third and premium type of wheel is mullets. These are the 29-inch front wheel and 27.5-inch rear combo, which offer great balancing speed and control.
3. Geometry and Sizing:
The size and geometry of a bicycle are other essential factors to consider when buying a bicycle. Your comfort and smoothness of the ride depend on this factor. Here are the considerations you should make:
- Sizing based on reach is becoming more frequent, taking into account the rider’s choice for stability or agility.
- Standover height is less of an issue with shorter seat tubes and longer dropper posts.
- Brands are more commonly using reach-based sizing strategies now.
4. Upgrading Considerations:
The fun part of owning a bicycle is the upgrades made over time. These are fun and a way to customise your bicycle. Here is what you should consider from an upgrading point of view.
- Upgrading components after purchase can be strategic for customization.
- Wheelsets are significant upgrades but can be costly.
- Extra features like in-frame storage and adjustable geometry can enhance the riding experience.
5. Warranty and Support:
Warranty periods vary among brands, with some offering lifetime warranties on frames.
Now comes the best part, so let’s find out the best softail bicycles you can buy without any hesitation.
Best Softail Bicycle For You in the Market
I have mentioned below some best softail bicycles for you, that you can buy easily from Amazon. These bikes are well-regarded options for anyone interested in softail mountain biking.
- Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Softail Mountain Bike
- Kent International Softail Bicycle
- Hiland 26 Inch Softail Bike
Each one offers a unique set of features suitable for different terrains and rider preferences. Let’s find out more about these bikes.
1. Mongoose Impasse Full Suspension Softail Mountain Bike
Mongoose Full Suspension Softail Mountain Bike has an 18-inch aluminum suspension frame, while the 29-inch wheels fit riders 5’4″ to 6’2″ tall. It effortlessly switches gears with the 21-speed rear derailleur equipped with SRAM twist shifters. Moreover, it has alloy wheels with quick-release front, superior braking performance of the alloy front and rear disc brakes, reliable stopping power for enhanced safety and control. Click to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Great Handling
- Metal paddles with great grip
- Satisfactory Rear Shock
- Good for steep, technical, and rugged terrain
Cons:
- Noisy shaft
- Poor gear adjustment
2. Kent International Softail Bicycle
It is a 26-inch full-suspension aluminum MTB frame bicycle. It has a suspension fork of 65mm travel and Shimano 21 Speed Shifters with Rear Tourney Derailleur. Moreover, it contains disc brakes, quick-release seat post clamp and 36 spoke alloy rims. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Super Quiet/ Noise Free
- Cost Efficient
- Pleasant Handlebars
- Comfortable Shape
- High Functionality
- Great Style and colour options
Cons:
- Gear Adjustment issue
- Stiff seat
3. Hiland 26 Inch Softail Bike
The Hiland GAMILLE 300 mountain bike features a high-tech, lightweight aluminum frame designed for durability and comfort on rugged trails. It is equipped with dual mechanical disc brakes and a 21-speed drivetrain, it offers reliable stopping power and smooth shifting across a variety of terrains. The bike comes with 26-inch non-slip, explosion-proof tires that provide excellent grip and puncture resistance. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros
- Adjustable shocks
- Smooth gear changes
- Disc brakes
- Easy assembling
Cons
- Loose Handbrakes
- Uncomfortable Seat
I know you are thinking about the difference between a softail and hardtail bicycle. Right? Let’s find out.
Difference between a Softail Bicycle and a Hardtail Bicycle
| Softail Bicycle | Hardtail Bicycle |
| Softail bicycles offer a rear suspension system for a plush and comfortable ride. These are more expensive and heavier but also ideal for comfort and stability seekers. | Hardtail Bicycles offer a rigid rear end with a front suspension fork. These bicycles are lighter and more efficient, suitable for speed and simplicity. |
| Softail bicycles excel with rear suspension for a smoother ride. | Hardtail bicycles offer a less comfortable experience. |
| Softails provide stability through rear suspension. | Hardtails also offer stability but in a more simpler way. |
| Softails feel heavier and less responsive. | Hardtails are nimble and quick, suitable for agile riding. |
| Softails are mostly used for rough and bumpy terrain. | Hardtails are mostly used for smooth and technical terrain. |
| Softails are more in use for longer rides and comfort. | Hardtails are more in use for technical terrain. |
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, this blog is a complete guide for you to buy a softail bicycle. It contains information on budget, frame material, wheel size, sizing, upgrading, and warranty. Moreover, you can compare a hardtail and a softail bicycle after reading this. The comparison will help you to make a better choice according to your interests. A softail bicycle can be your best bicycle if you want to enjoy a comfortable ride.
FAQs
Is Softail bicycle a good first bike?
Yes, Softail bicycles can be your first bike. It is well balanced and very easy to handle as a first bike. It is powerful enough that it can be your last bike as well. It can be easily customised and upgraded in multiple ways.
What is a full suspension mountain bike?
A full-suspension mountain bike has front suspension in the fork and rear suspension commonly referred to as a shock. Full suspension MTBs are better suited to rocky, tricky, and steep downhill terrain.