Fully rigid mountain bikes have no suspension system in the front or rear of the bike, which can make for a bumpy ride. However, fans of these bikes enjoy a lower price tag and better handling. Since you need to keep on your toes instead of depending on a suspension system to protect you from roots and rocks, riding a rigid bike can turn you into a more skilled rider.
Responsiveness
Since rigid bikes lack the buffering effects of a suspension system, you'll find greater responsiveness and precision from a rigid bike. These bikes also are more energy efficient since more of the energy from the pedals is transferred to the wheels, without the suspension system in the way absorbing some of your effort. Also, since the bike weighs less without a heavy suspension system, you can pick up speed faster, which helps when climbing hills.
Price
Generally, rigid mountain bikes cost far less than those with suspension systems. This means that a beginner just getting into mountain biking can afford a higher-quality rigid mountain bike than if she were buying one with a suspension system. Bikes with full suspension systems that cost the same as fully rigid bikes tend to have cheaper parts than the rigid bikes to make up for the additional cost of the suspension.
Maintenance
Fully rigid mountain bikes have fewer moving parts than those with suspensions, which means you're less likely to have a component break. Bikes with suspension systems sometimes develop cracks or creaks and require maintenance such as periodic cleaning and lubrication. If you're not confident performing the maintenance yourself, you'll need to bring it to a bike shop and pay an expert. In the long run, you'll save time and money with a low-maintenance rigid bike.
Skill
The riders of fully rigid bikes claim that you learn more from these bikes, such as how to read the trail. Since the bike won't buffer any shocks, you'll need to pay greater attention to every obstacle in your path and concentrate harder during the ride than you would otherwise, which could make you a better rider. Picking the best possible course and then precisely maneuvering your way along it with a rigid bike is one of the pleasures of owning a fully rigid bike and, some say, worth the bumps and bruises.
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