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Freeride Bike Buying Guides

Introduction

Freeride bikes are purpose-built mountain bikes designed for riders who seek out adrenaline-pumping descents, jumps, and features. Below, you'll find detailed model guides to some of the best freeride bike models out there. Click on any model to access a detailed guide featuring specifications, features, and insights to help you choose the ideal bike for your adventures.

These bikes are engineered for riding mostly bike parks and extreme natural terrain. They're half a step away from downhill bikes: you can still pedal uphill with a freeride bike, although it's going to be at a crawl. Modern freeride bikes are so good, having a dedicated downhill-only bike isn't necessarily necessary.

Who Should Ride Freeride Bikes?

Freeride bikes are just the ticket for adrenaline lovers who can't stop pushing their limits, like:

  • Freeride enthusiasts
  • Bike park riders who sometimes want to climb their own mountains
  • Off-the-beaten-path adventurers who seek out extreme lines and want a bike that can withstand big jumps and cliff drops
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Model Guides - Freeride Bikes

2023 Rocky Mountain Slayer

2023 Rocky Mountain Slayer

Your Freeride Dream Bike
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Key Features of a Modern Freeride Bike:

Modern Freeride bikes are engineered to provide maximum durability and performance in extreme terrain. Key features of these bikes include:

  • Rear suspension travel: Typically ranging from 160mm to 180mm, providing ample cushioning and control on rough terrain and big hits.
  • Front suspension travel: Ranging from 160mm to 200mm, at the maximum end of the range of what's available
  • Dual-crown forks are available either as an option or the default on some models
  • Wheel size: 27.5” wheels are popular for their agility and maneuverability, providing quick handling in technical terrain.
  • Tire width: 2.5” to 2.8” tires with aggressive traction
  • Handlebar width: Extra-wide handlebars (around 800mm) for maximum control and stability at high speeds and on big jumps
  • Stem length: Short stems for responsive handling
  • Dropper seatpost: Typically included as a standard feature
  • Head Angle: Slack head angle ranging from 65 to 66 degrees