Extreme Downhill & Freeride Mountain Biking Compilation Ready to 2017.Cherif Zidi Mountain-Bike video Breakdown : Traditional mountain bikes don’t need the bomber construction and extended travel of a downhill bike because they’re rarely contending with courses that are quite as steep and treacherous. Instead, mountain bikes feature lighter frames and can forgo full suspension for a hardtail or rigid fork, depending on the preference of the rider. These bikes are less capable of absorbing impact, but climb much faster and are easier to maneuver. A traditional mountain bike can also use 29-inch wheels.