Which sort of back suspension on a bike is better (see links)?

Question

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_273431_langId_-1_CarSelectorCatalogId__CarSelectorGroupId__varient__categoryId_82395_crumb_33980-33957_parentcategoryrn_82395

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_271273_langId_-1_CarSelectorCatalogId__CarSelectorGroupId__varient__categoryId_82395_crumb_33980-33957_parentcategoryrn_82395

Answer 1

Go with the first bike if you are looking for more of a freeride downhill bike. 6" of suspension is a lot for a cross country bike. The second bike is lighter and quicker up the hill the first is built for the ride down.

Answer 2

The first one looks like a similar copy of a Trek Fuel/Liquid.  Of the two bikes, I'd go for the GT design as long as you have a good local dealer who can help you get parts if need be.  The I-Drive suspension is really smart and works GREAT.  The odd bottom bracket is something you have to learn about and get used to adjusting, but the overall system blows away many other designs.   The Carerra bike isn't bad at all, but between the two I'd go for the GT.

Answer 3

the first one looks better

Answer 4

The I drive (2nd one) looks good.  This is because the actual rear shock is clear of the crank.  It is therefore less likely to get clogged.

However, if you are after full suss, it might be worth spending a bit more.  Go to your local bike shop and sit on a few.  You might not get any sense out of the Halfords pimply youths and for this sort of money......

Try these links:

www.leisurelakes.co.uk

www.rutlandcycling.co.uk

www.pitsfordcycles.co.uk

www.evanscycles.co.uk

www.georgehallcycles.co.uk

Also, have a look at:

www.mbr.co.uk

Luck

Answer 5

the carrera has some great reveiws regarding this model apparently this model is made by the same company who do the kona dawg but not 100% looks wise i like the gt but looks dont always pay of to be the best i have nothing against carrera's i own one, as well as a kona, take no notice of people who mock halfords at the end of the day it makes no difference it the same bike is getting dropped of at halfords or evens cycles, they are all made in the same factory the only thing i would say is check every thing is tight and safe to use but i would also say this no matter where you buy a bike from good luck in what ever you decide make your own review on what ever bike you decide to choose keep me posted thanks.