Front suspension for a pump track bike?

Hi Lee,

I bought the book and built one of your tracks. Then bought your MTB book and the bmx book.

Now I want to buy a dedicated pumptrack bike but am trying to be cost effective.

Two questions:

Question 1: Do I want/need a front shock for pump track? Some things I read seem to say no others seem to think it is cool.

Question 2: Should I get a bmx, cruiser or dirt jump 26″? I ride my Santa Cruz Nomad on the trails and tried to convert my Kona Humu but it has too long of chain stays.

I live on an island and have dealer representation for Kona (downside), Redline (d-26) and Specialized (P.1). These are all 26″ dirt jumpers but I do rock best right now on my daughters 24″ Torker! Should I get a 24″… 20″

Let me know if you have thoughts. You are my mentor. I will learn the Kung fu…

Best Wishes,

Brian

Hey Brian!

Cheaper and more snappy than an MTB, more forgiving than a 20: A 24-inch BMX cruiser might be the ideal compromise for Brian’s new pump track bike.

Question 1
You don’t need a front shock, especially on a smooth track.

However, mountain bikers tend to like the feel of some front squish, and a suspension fork makes the bike more versatile. Also, a front-suspended pump bike will feel a bit more like your Nomad.

Question 2
That depends on your style and budget.

Most adult mountain bikers do best on DJ hardtails. Bikes like the rigid single speed Specialized P.1 deliver tons of value and fun.

If cost is a real issue, and/or you truly want to learn the kung fu, try a BMX bike. Unless you are already a black belt, I suggest learning to ride a 24 first, then manning up to the 20. One you can ride a 20, everything else feels like slow motion.

Yep, if you’re saying you want a dedicated pump bike, and cost is an issue, and you like your daughter’s 24, I say get yourself a race-oriented BMX cruiser. I have an Intense BMX Factory Alloy 24, and it is sweet.

Check out: What is the best pump track bike?

Rip it,

Lee

Know more. Have more fun!

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