Suspension on drop-bar bikes can be a contentious issue, with ‘Why not just get a mountain bike?’ or ‘There’s not much travel anyway’ two oft-repeated remarks. These both miss the point. Suspension on gravel bikes isn’t about landing big jumps; it’s all about increasing comfort and adding control.
A good suspension forkbar, snapping it left and right and affecting your ability to maintain speed and navigate technical terrain safely. Constant vibrations also lead to premature fatigue in your upper body. If you can’t hold the bar because your arms are pumped and your shoulders ache, you’ll have to stop riding.
