Articles | The Different Suspension Components Used By Hybrid Bike Designers

When looking at getting a new hybrid bike, the question will arise as whether you ought to pick a model with some kind of suspension. Some designers do not judge suspension necessary at all - these are ranges such as the Bianchi Camaleonte and Specialized Sirrus which put rather more emphasis on road speed. That aside, what actually are the options?
Basically there are two types of module - front suspension forks and suspension seatposts. A hybrid bike will not have the rear suspension found on most mountain bikes. They are not intended to cope with the rough ground that an MTB will face.
Front Suspension Forks
Without doubt suspension forks are the most widely fitted suspension modules on hybrids. Coil-spring operated, they have a travel of around 50-60mm.
The basic package can be enhanced - depending on price of course. A very positive feature to incorporate is 'lockout'. This is where there is the ability to lock the forks in place - very valuable if you are on a surface which doesn't require suspension, as the motion of the forks absorbs power.
Scott likes to fit its bikes with supension forks - they feature on just about all of their models. Have a look at the Scott Sportster range if you feel that this is the way you want to go. Another well-regarded bike carrying suspension forks is the Kona Dew FS.
Suspension Seatposts
These are fitted remarkably seldom to hybrid bikes off the shelf. Many people, myself included think that this is a surprise, given how efficient they are in combatting rough roads. The suspension is supplied by a coil spring, or on better spec components by an elastomer insert. They can be adjusted to the weight of the rider.
The Kona Dew FS is one model that does fit a suspension post as standard. They can of course be retro-fitted at any time - they are widely available. Be careful to buy the right diameter post though.
So what are the pros and cons of suspension?
There's no doubt that suspension of some kind is superb if you spend rather a lot of your time off smooth roads. A bike with suspension allows you to head off into the countryside whenever the mood takes you.
But nothing is for nothing - a decent suspension fork will not come cheap. Suspension forks weigh more than rigid forks (particularly carbon), and also absorb some of the power which might be better used propelling the bike. Go for a fork with lockout.
As pointed out, I think that a suspension seatpost is a very useful addition to any bike where comfort is a priority - they are not that expensive and will not add appreciable weight.
Just do your research and thinking - then choose the option that best suits your style of riding.