The common rider does not necessarily want a bike that will absorb massive drops or obstacles. The truth is the majority of recreational riders rarely veer of the path of least resistance. This is not a bad thing at all, it is, simply, the truth. Hardtail mountain bikes are still being made for a reason. Many riders want something that will make riding the boardwalk or the rails-to-trails more exciting and enjoyable. For this kind of riding the hardtail is certainly the bike of choice. It will allow the rider to go faster with more control and limited bounce. There are independent bike manufacturers out there who specialize in making custom hardtail frames for the purist as well. It is totally possible to buy a custom built steel or titanium frame that look and feel like a million bucks. There is an art form to mountain biking, whether full suspension or hardtail, you can find beauty in all of it.