Just finished a 60km Paris, Ontario to Ancaster Ontario mountain bike race. This the is the first year going with a retro bike setup. Single Speed, 29 inch wheels rather than standard 26 inch mtn bike wheels, Rigid so no shocks.
Did 60k in 3 hrs. Boy was my body beaten up as I have been riding dual suspension for the past decade.
Single speed makes you ride harder and rigid give you more power transfer and direct steering. But this effectively makes you body, an extension of the bike, absorbing chatter and bumps.
Current single speed rig.
Haro Mary SS
http://www.harobikes.com/mtb/bikes/mary_ss.php
Current dual suspension rig. Gaint Trance 1
Currently training for the 2 x 24-Hour Mtn Bike race events this summer.
Get out and ride.
