List of OTP singlespeed mountain bikes

Thinking about building up a SS mtb, and want to do it as simply as possible, but was wondering if the kinds of trails I'm likely to ride on will limit my options. I'd probably be riding in the south downs, so rocky/chalky and steep climbs/descents. Apparently 26 inch wheels are better for more technical stuff, but could I get away with no suspension and one gear?

A lot of equipment choices are pure taste. My preference is for a fully rigid 29er, but then thats mainly because I find it offers maximum fun. Not too bothered wether its quicker or not.

I'm often tempted to splash out on a nice suspension fork. But not for comfort. A well set-up suspension fork will increase traction by keeping the front tyre in contact with the trail. As tommy pointed out the cheapest option is to try out a rigid fork first and then maybe upgrade, as opposed to the other way around.

As for one gear. I ride in the Norwegian mountains with one gear, and I love it. Climbing is fine, decending is fine, and technical sections are fine. I'd even go as far as saying single speeders sometimes have an advantage in these sections. The downside is the less technical flatter sections, where you just cant keep up.

Plenty of frames let you run both singlespeed and gears. The easiest set-up being a standard frame with a single speed conversion kit (spacers + tensioner), which you can add gears to should you wish. You could also do, as I plan to, and have a singlespeed rear wheel as well as a Afline hub geared rear wheel, on a singlespeed frame. To give your bike quick versatility.

So basically you dont need to commit to fully rigid/front sus or single speed/ gears. Before you have tried these set-ups out.

26er v 29er is something you will need to decide on though.

All the best....