I began on a fully rigid mtn.bike. Learned to pick good lines and the challenge was fun. That being said, enjoying my hardtail more. If I was younger and riding trails more often, wouldn't mind trying a full susp. But for now, and the amount of riding I manage, the old hardtail will do. Our road bikes aren't up with current tech., but serve us well. I don't FEEL underbiked, guess it all depends of what you think you need, or want.